Official images and information about Buick’s updated Encore have emerged, and it’s quite clear we’re looking at a more refined and better connected car than before.

The 2017 Encore is by no means a new model, but simply a facelifted one, though that takes nothing away from its new and boxier front-end design with new LED headlights, the more refined interior or the on-board tech.

Among the Encore’s new standard features you’ll find things such as push-button start, keyless unlock and an 8″ color touchscreen which makes exploring your next-generation IntelliLink system much more refreshing.

“The Buick Encore created the premium small SUV segment and remains the top choice for customers seeking premium features and dependability coupled with timeless design,” said Buick VP of sales & marketing Duncan Aldred. “In a rapidly evolving segment, the Encore continues to lead with smart, purposeful updates and a new level of technology-infused elegance and refinement.”

New to the Encore are the chrome exhaust outlet, body-colored heated outside mirrors, new 18″ wheels and three exterior colors: Black Cherry Metallic, Ebony Twilight Metallic and White Frost Metallic. Once it goes on sale this fall, 2017 Encore customers will have to choose between five trim levels – Encore, Encore Sport Touring, Encore Convenience, Encore Leather and Encore Premium.

Speaking of premium, the interior has now been elevated thanks to the greater emphasis on material selection, placement and details such as bright accents and contrast stitching. The updated instrument panel features a 4.2″ diagonal color driver information center, which blends with a new center stack for better overall access to the user interface.

GM’s IntelliLink system now brings Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features to the Encore, meaning that customers will also get to enjoy OnStar 4G LTE connectivity, plus Wi-Fi hotspot – now standard across the brand’s US model range.

Engine-wise, most trims will get a unique 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol unit, with more power, more torque and spot/start tech, with either 2WD or AWD.

The Encore was Buick’s best-selling model in North America last year, when it accounted for nearly a third of overall sales – which already went up by 34% during the first two months of 2016.

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