2023 Buick Encore GX vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Buick Encore GX did not reflect Buick's storied design history, such as the iconic 1938 Y-Job. Its styling was a departure from the past without forging a new path, resulting in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV appeal that buyers sought. The rounded exterior and tall stance did not convey the rugged SUV look, and even with the Sport Touring Package, which included subtle enhancements like different bumpers and a black mesh grille, the changes were barely noticeable. Inside, the Encore GX Essence trim offered expected features like leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control, but the abundance of plastic reminded us of its entry-level status within Buick's lineup. The interior design was uninspired, with a blob-like dashboard reminiscent of 1990s design, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a bold geometric design, moving away from the softer lines of its predecessor. The spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights, giving the front a more aggressive look. The flat hood with raised sides aided off-road visibility, while the side profile appeared as if carved from metal, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for better visibility. The GX was available in six trims, with the Overtrail models focusing on off-roading and the Luxury trims emphasizing comfort. The interior blended luxury with utility, featuring a large 14-inch touchscreen and robust materials. While not as lavish as some competitors, the GX was a premium SUV ready for rugged use.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The standard 1.2-liter engine produced 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, while the optional 1.3-liter engine delivered 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for the 1.3-liter engine. The FWD models used a CVT, while AWD models had a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 1.3-liter AWD model felt stronger than its specs suggested, but power delivery was not smooth, requiring patience to get the most out of the engine. The Encore GX excelled in ride comfort and noise reduction, thanks to its well-damped suspension and active noise cancellation. However, it felt ponderous and awkward, with slow steering and significant body roll.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The torque was available low in the rev range, aiding off-road performance. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX had a stiffer chassis for stability on and off-road. It used a 10-speed automatic transmission, operating smoothly with standard full-time 4WD and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and E-KDSS for enhanced off-road capability. The GX accelerated well and maintained composure on-road, with effective brakes. Despite its size, the GX handled twists and turns with ease, and while off-road testing was limited, it showed promise in less aggressive conditions.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. It had 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats up and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. However, front seats were positioned close together, reducing spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Small-item storage was well-executed, with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless phone charger. Instrumentation was clear, with useful features like the engine start/stop notification within the tachometer.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. It offered 41.2 inches of front legroom and 36.7 inches in the second row, while the third row was tight for adults. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with it folded, and a total of 76.9 cubic feet. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet total.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX featured a standard 8-inch touchscreen and 4.2-inch driver information display. Optional features included navigation, a head-up display, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM radio. The interface was user-friendly, with graphics that surpassed many competitors, though the screen size was modest.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with USB-C ports and wireless charging. Overtrail models had additional USB-C ports, and all models included a 120-volt outlet in the trunk. The Lexus Interface offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Drive Connect and Remote Connect services available via subscription. A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. While the interface was impressive, subscription costs for some features could add up over time.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX came with standard driver assist features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane keep assist. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. It received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was an IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick, though child-seat anchor ease of use was rated "Average."

The 2024 Lexus GX saw significant improvements in safety, with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 standard across all models. It included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. While not yet crash-tested by IIHS or NHTSA, the new GX's modern architecture and comprehensive ADAS instilled confidence in its safety.