2026 vs 2025 Buick Encore GX: What’s New this Year?

The 2026 Buick Encore GX builds on the strong foundation of the 2025 model with only a few key updates. From a new Brilliant Red exterior color to a standard tire inflator kit and a Limited Edition package on the Sport Touring trim, most of the vehicle’s design, technology, and performance features remain the same. For drivers in Kansas City, Gladstone, Liberty, Buckner, and Grain Valley, this comparison highlights what’s changed, what stays familiar, and how the Encore GX continues to offer a versatile, stylish compact SUV option.

At Robert Brogden’s Olathe Buick GMC, we are committed to serving all your automotive needs. Whether you are interested in a new Encore GX, need service for your current Buick, or are searching for genuine parts, our team is ready to assist. Contact us today or visit us to see how we can help you find the right vehicle and keep it running at its best.

How Does the 2026 Buick Encore GX Differ from the 2025 Model?

The 2026 Encore GX builds on the 2025 model with only minor changes, keeping most features the same. Drivers will find the same strong design, versatile interior, and advanced technology. Key differences focus on a few updates that enhance style and convenience without altering performance.

Key 2026 vs 2025 Buick Encore GX updates:

• New exterior color: Brilliant Red replaces Aquamarine Blue Metallic.
• Spare tire setup: Tire inflator kit is now standard.
• Limited Edition package: Available on Sport Touring AWD trim.
• Carryover features: Engine choices, infotainment system, and standard safety suite remain unchanged.

This ensures that buyers in Kansas City, Gladstone, Liberty, Buckner, and Grain Valley get a familiar, reliable SUV with thoughtful new options.

What Exterior Changes Are New on the 2026 Encore GX?

Most of the Encore GX’s exterior remains the same as 2025. The bold grille, front and rear styling, and wheel sizes are unchanged. However, small updates add fresh appeal.

Exterior updates for 2026 Encore GX:

New color option: Brilliant Red joins the lineup.

Discontinued color: Aquamarine Blue Metallic is no longer offered.

Limited Edition package (Sport Touring AWD only):

• White Sands exterior with black roof
• 19-inch gloss-black wheels
• Luxury and technology upgrades included

These updates give the Encore GX a modern look while keeping its signature compact SUV style.

How Has the Spare Tire Setup Changed for 2026?

The spare tire setup is one of the most noticeable updates on the 2026 Encore GX. Buick replaced the traditional compact spare with a new tire inflator kit.

Spare tire updates:

2025 Buick Encore GX	2026 Buick Encore GX
Compact spare tire standard	Tire inflator kit standard
Spare wheel optional	16-inch spare wheel available separately

This change reduces weight and frees up cargo space while still giving drivers options. The new setup aligns with modern SUV trends and enhances convenience for local drivers.

What Interior Features Remain the Same or Improved?

The 2026 Encore GX keeps most of the interior features from the 2025 model, offering the same comfort and technology. Cabin space, seating, and cargo capacity remain unchanged. Higher trims continue to provide premium options for convenience and luxury.

Interior highlights of the 2026 Encore GX:

Seating and space

Room for five passengers, up to 50.2 cubic feet of cargo with rear seats folded.

Comfort features (higher trims):

• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Hands-free power liftgate
• Panoramic power moonroof

Infotainment:

• 11-inch touchscreen
• 8-inch digital driver display
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

These carryover and upgraded features ensure a familiar, user-friendly experience while keeping the Encore GX modern and practical.

What Are the 2026 Encore GX Engine and Performance Options?

The 2026 Encore GX keeps the same engine choices and performance features as the 2025 model. Drivers can expect reliable power and smooth handling. The two engines offer options for efficiency or extra performance.

Engine and performance options:

Engine	Specs & Notes
1.2L Turbo (FWD)	137 hp, 162 lb-ft torque, paired with CVT
1.3L Turbo (FWD/AWD)	155 hp, 174 lb-ft torque, paired with 9-speed automatic

Other performance features include responsive steering, a smooth ride, and available all-wheel drive for added control.

Pricing highlights:

• 2026 Encore GX trims see only modest price changes.
• Limited Edition Sport Touring AWD adds value with extra features for its price.
• Carryover trims (Preferred, Sport Touring, Avenir) maintain competitive Encore GX pricing 2026 in the Kansas City area.

These options ensure that the Encore GX delivers strong performance and value for drivers in Kansas City, Gladstone, Liberty, Buckner, and Grain Valley.

How Do Safety Features Compare Between 2025 and 2026?

The 2026 Encore GX keeps the same strong safety features as the 2025 model. Drivers can expect reliable protection and modern assistance systems. Only minor updates appear in this area.

Standard safety features:

• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Front Pedestrian Braking
• Lane Keep Assist
• Rear Vision Camera

Optional safety upgrades:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• HD Surround Vision
• Rear Park Assist

These 2026 vs 2025 Buick Encore GX updates ensure drivers in Kansas City, Gladstone, Liberty, Buckner, and Grain Valley remain well-protected on the road.

What Trim Changes Are Available on the 2026 Buick Encore GX?

Trim options remain similar to the 2025 model, with a key addition for 2026. Buyers can choose the right balance of features and style.

Available trims:

Preferred: Core features with standard technology and comfort.

Sport Touring (ST): Sporty style with available AWD and higher tech.

Avenir: Luxury trim with advanced features and exclusive styling.

Limited Edition (ST AWD only): New for 2026, includes:

• White Sands exterior with black roof
• 19-inch gloss-black wheels
• Extra luxury and tech features

These Encore GX trims give drivers choices for comfort, style, and performance across the Kansas City area.

How Does Pricing for the 2026 Encore GX Compare to 2025?

Pricing for the 2026 Encore GX is modest, reflecting minor updates rather than a major redesign. Value remains strong for all trims.

Trim pricing highlights:

Trim	2026 Notes	Starting MSRP*
Preferred	Slight increase; core features unchanged	$26,495
Sport Touring (ST)	New Limited Edition package adds value	$27,300
Avenir	Price stable; luxury features remain	$31,600

*MSRP reflects base starting price for each trim.

These Buick Encore GX trim changes make the 2026 model a competitive choice in Kansas City, Gladstone, Liberty, Buckner, and Grain Valley.

What’s different on the 2026 Buick Encore GX compared to the 2025 model?

The 2026 Encore GX adds a new Brilliant Red exterior color, a standard tire inflator kit, and a Limited Edition package on the Sport Touring AWD trim. Most other features remain the same.

Were any powertrain, fuel economy, or drivetrain options changed for 2026?

No. The 2026 Encore GX keeps the same 1.2L and 1.3L turbo engine options, CVT and 9-speed automatic transmissions, and FWD/AWD choices.

What new safety or convenience features, if any, were added to the 2026 Encore GX?

The standard Buick Driver Confidence safety suite and optional safety features remain the same. The main convenience change is the standard tire inflator kit.

How did Buick adjust trim levels, standard equipment, or pricing for 2026?

Trim levels are mostly unchanged (Preferred, Sport Touring, Avenir), with the addition of the Limited Edition package on Sport Touring AWD. Pricing increased slightly in line with minor updates.

For buyers deciding between 2025 and 2026 Encore GX, which model year offers better value?

The 2026 Encore GX provides minor style and convenience updates for a modest price increase. The 2025 model may offer better value if buyers do not need the new color, Limited Edition package, or tire inflator kit.

Explore the 2025 and 2026 Buick Encore GX at Olathe Buick GMC

Drivers in Kansas City, Gladstone, Liberty, Buckner, and Grain Valley can visit Robert Brogden’s Olathe Buick GMC to explore our wide selection of vehicles, including the Encore GX. Our team is ready to help with sales, service, parts, and more.

If fuel efficiency matters to you, check out our guide on the best Buick MPG to see which models deliver the most miles per gallon. For long-term reliability, learn more about the most reliable Buick model years. Seniors may also find helpful advice in our guide to the best Buick for seniors.

Whether you’re shopping for a new Encore GX, curious about gas mileage, or looking for a dependable Buick for everyday driving, our team can help you find the right vehicle for your needs. Visit us today to see our inventory and get personalized assistance.

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