New Buick Encore GX Performance Specs, Engine & MPG
2026 Buick Encore GX Performance Specs: Key Takeaways
- Choose between two turbocharged engines, two transmissions, and two drivetrains.
- The Buick Encore GX can make a maximum EPA-estimated 30/31/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 when using Flex Fuel and 29/31/30 MPG on regular gasoline.
- A 1,000-pound maximum towing capacity is available for this SUV when properly equipped.
- Every edition has 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space available, which expands to 50.2 cubic feet with the rear row folded.
Small in Size – Big Impression: Buick Encore GX
In our Buick Encore GX specs guide, this premium small SUV delivers big on fuel efficiency, horsepower ratings, and torque. Not only does the model offer a versatile configuration selection, but you'll also get a capable towing capacity for its segment, comfortable acceleration time, and flexible mileage on every model. We encourage you to explore our online Lorenzo Buick GMC inventory or meet up with our team for details. In the meantime, read on for the 2026 Buick Encore GX highlights.
2026 Encore GX Engine Specs & Transmission Info
There are two 2026 Encore GX engine options, both of which affect how much horsepower and torque the model can create. We'll talk more about performance (i.e., how the vehicle handles when you're behind the wheel) in our next section. For now, let's see which of the model's engine options and power levels most appeals to you.
Kicking off the capable lineup is a 1.2-liter Turbo engine. As its name suggests, this unit delivers the punchy turbocharged power you crave, with 137 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. Plus, you'll have the smooth operation of a continuous variable transmission (CVT) for swift gear shifting.
Models that upgrade to the vehicle's 1.3-liter Turbo engine may have a similar experience: Turbocharged goodness comes standard, and a CVT is the standard transmission. However, you'll see an uptick in Encore GX horsepower and Encore GX torque with this engine option, with 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque.
You'll get a nine-speed automatic transmission if you select an all-wheel-drive Encore GX. Doing so is often recommended for drivers seeking a more engaging ride and nostalgic driving experience (that vroom-vroom noise is more prevalent with this option). A CVT, however, has no shifting gears, which does make it more fuel-efficient (more on this in a moment).
Before we move on to fuel efficiency, speed, and towing, we'd be remiss if we didn't touch on the drivetrain. It's an important detail for drivers who want the most out of their ride.
Every 2026 Buick Encore GX specs sheet includes standard front-wheel drive (FWD), with all-wheel drive (AWD) available. Front-wheel drive is a generally more fuel-efficient option – it weighs less, so you can go faster when punching down the accelerator. Meanwhile, all-wheel drive offers a little more connection to the road – it feels more grounded, and the handling improves. All-wheel drive also tends to do better on gravel, in mud, or in the rain.
Both have their merits; the choice between FWD and AWD is entirely up to you.
2026 Encore GX MPH & MPG
A review of the new 2026 Encore GX performance specs sheet wouldn't be complete without a look at how quick and efficient the model is. Here are some of the highlights:
- Encore GX 0-60 mph time: 8.8 seconds2
- Maximum Encore GX MPG: an EPA-estimated 30/31/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 with FWD and Flex Fuel.
Although this year's specs sheet is a little unclear about the Buick Encore GX top speed, we suspect this compact companion can reach the average. This typically ranges from 110 to 130 mph.
Does the Encore GX acceleration and gas mileage seem like a fit for you? We can help you secure one of the latest arrivals or a used Encore GX at a competitive rate. Book a visit or phone call with Lorenzo Buick GMC to learn more.
That 8.8-second figure was for the Buick Encore GX Avenir with a 1.3-liter Turbo engine and AWD. But several factors can influence speed, and each of the Buick Encore GX trim levels is unique, with different options and interior cosmetics. You can learn more about how the first two levels measure up in our Encore GX Preferred vs. Sport Touring guide.
| 2026 Buick Encore GX Specs & Performance | |
|---|---|
| 2026 Buick Encore GX | |
| Engine |
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| Transmission |
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| Horsepower |
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| Torque |
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| Max. Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs2,3 |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) |
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| 0-60 MPH Time | 8.8 s2 |
| Drivetrain |
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Buick Encore GX Towing Capacity
As far as the Buick Encore GX towing capacity goes, you're in for a small treat. Although the model is in the small SUV segment, it delivers an impressive 1,000-pound towing capacity, helping you bring along modest items on your adventures. That's enough to tow an ultra-light teardrop camper, for example, which can house two campers at a time – perfect for a romantic weekend getaway.
To gain the maximum from your 2026 Buick Encore GX towing capacity, you'll need to equip the optional Trailering Package. This package adds a trailer hitch, a trailering harness, and a trailer hitch bezel.
Encore GX Dimensions
Although the Buick Encore GX resides in the "Small SUV" segment, it first began as a bigger version of the now-discontinued Encore. You can still find used Encore SUVs within pre-owned inventories, but the Encore GX is going strong in new inventories. And it's a joy to look at with its chiseled exterior design aesthetic and shape. It wears its size well, but you don't need to take our word for it – let's review the specifics of the exterior and interior sizing.
| 2026 Buick Encore GX Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| 2026 Buick Encore GX | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Base Curb Weight | 3,023 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 102 in |
| Length | 171.2 in |
| Width | 71.4 in |
| Height | 64.1 - 64.9 in |
| Cargo Space (Standard / Max) | 23.5 / 50.2 cu ft |
| Headroom (Front / Rear) | 39.7 / 38.1 in |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 40.9 / 36 in |
| Shoulder Room (Front / Rear) | 55.4 / 53.6 in |
| Hip Room (Front / Rear) | 51.9 / 50.7 in |
Exterior Dimensions
When you pull the 2026 Buick Encore GX into your driveway, you won't find yourself wanting for more space. In fact, you'll still have plenty of room for the kids to take their chalk to the concrete, even with the SUV parked in the driveway.
In every configuration, the model measures 171.2 inches long and 71.4 inches wide without accounting for the side mirrors. There is some variation in height, depending on your chosen trim. However, the variation is less than an inch; you can expect the model to span 64.1 to 64.9 inches tall.
Interior Dimensions
Inside the Buick Encore GX, you'll find plenty of wiggle room in both rows, with more than 38 inches of headroom no matter where you're sitting. The front row gets nearly 41 inches of legroom, while the rear row is not much narrower with 36 inches – both of which are appealing, particularly on those longer trips.
And when it's time for the weekly grocery haul or a trip to the mall, you're in luck – the 2026 Buick Encore GX can house plenty of bags within its trunk cargo space, with up to 23.5 cubic feet of space. If you don't need the three rear-row seats, fold the rear seats to expand cargo space to a maximum of 50.2 cubic feet.
Ready for the Buick Encore GX Specs To Elevate Your Driving Experience?
As a dedicated Buick Encore GX dealer, we strive to provide drivers with a Buick or GMC model that best enhances their commute, errands, and adventures. The new Buick Encore GX manages it nicely, and we're not surprised – this small SUV is a Consumer Reports Recommended model,7 after all.
And we can make it even easier to get this SUV with the use of our Buick Encore GX specials.
If another model from our inventory interests you, consider leveraging one of our other current Buick lease offers. If you're our neighbor in South Florida, come visit our dealership in Miami, FL!
FAQ
What does the "GX" stand for in Buick Encore GX?
The "GX" in the name of the Buick Encore GX stands for "Grand Crossover." This is because the model is larger than its now-discontinued counterpart, the Buick Encore.
What is the difference between Buick Encore and Encore GX?
There are a few differences between the Buick Encore and the Buick Encore GX:
- The Encore is now discontinued, while the Buick Encore GX is still in production.
- The Encore GX has a longer wheelbase than the Encore SUVs that were last produced.
- Passengers will have more comfort and room to spread out in the Encore GX.
How much can a Buick Encore GX tow?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX has a maximum towing capacity of up to 1,000 pounds when properly equipped. You'll need to equip any additional towing packages to gain this capacity. This can be enough capability to bring along a pair of Jet Skis or a small kayak or canoe.
1Based on EPA city estimate 30 / highway estimate 31 / combined estimate 30. Your range may be less.
2This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/buick/encore-gx
3Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
4Based on EPA city estimate 21 / highway estimate 23 / combined estimate 22. Your range may be less.
5Based on EPA city estimate 29 / highway estimate 31 / combined estimate 30. Your range may be less.
6Based on EPA city estimate 26 / highway estimate 28 / combined estimate 27. Your range may be less.
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buick/encore-gx/2026/ratings-specs/#pagestop