Buick Encore GX is Coming Here in Early 2020
The all-new 2020 Buick Encore GX, which was unveiled at Auto Shanghai last month, will arrive in North America early next year, General Motors has just confirmed.
Slotting below the Envision, it will not replace the smaller Encore, at least not initially. The latter, which is based on the automaker’s Gamma II platform and accounts for 58 percent of total Buick sales in Canada, will carry on to give the entry-level luxury brand a four-crossover lineup.
The longer-wheelbase Encore GX rides on the new VSS-F platform, just like the upcoming 2020 Chevrolet Trailblazer that’s also headed to our shores.
“As we look to the future of Buick, the Encore GX positions us strongly as a consideration for those who want to purchase small or compact SUVs,” said Michael MacPhee, brand director, Buick and GMC.
Powertrain options and other technical details have yet to be specified, though it’s expected that the turbocharged 1.4-litre Ecotec engine will be part of the equation, possibly with a nine-speed automatic transmission instead of the six-speed unit.
We do know that the Encore GX will offer new standard safety and driver assist features including Front Pedestrian Braking, Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. It will also offer the Enclave’s innovative Rear Camera Mirror, which provides a wide, less obstructed rear view while parking and driving, plus a 360-degree HD camera system.
Inside, the cargo area will trump that of the current Encore by nearly 140 litres.
GM says it will announce full product specifications and pricing only when the 2020 Buick Encore GX begins arriving at North American dealers. Look for the vehicle to make a public debut at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show in November.
