Buick’s 2017 Encore subcompact just made its official debut at the New York Auto Show, sporting a much more mature and refined design.
But don’t think for a second the company replaced the automobile altogether, as it’s only a facelifted variant, mirroring the design of its German counterpart; the Opel Mokka. Albeit few, the Encore comes with some of its own visual style cues, managing to integrate itself in Buick’s current line-up and design language.
On the mechanical front, the Encore draws power from the same 138hp and 148 lb-ft 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which the 2016 Encore Sport Touring Edition’s more powerful 1.4L Turbo that delivers 153hp and 177 lb-ft being offered as an option on the Leather and Premium trims.
Start/stop technology is available on most trim levels as well as 10 air bags and StabiliTrak stability enhancement control.
The interior design was revamped as well, with the 2017 model coming with a greater emphasis on material selection, as well as an updated instrument panel that flows across the dash incorporating new gauge cluster with a 4.2-inch-diagonal color driver information center. The appeal of the cockpit is completed by a new, frameless 8-inch color touch screen.
The Encore was Buick’s best-selling model in North America last year (it’s also sold in Mexico and China), accounting for nearly a third of overall sales.
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