What Engine Options Are Available on the Buick Encore GX?

The Buick Encore GX offers two small turbocharged engines designed to balance everyday performance, fuel economy, and city-friendly drivability.

The 1.2-liter engine serves as the value-oriented option, while the 1.3-liter provides additional horsepower and torque for drivers who want stronger acceleration, carry passengers regularly, or prefer all-wheel drive.

Buick Encore GX Engine Comparison

Engine availability varies by model year and trim, so buyers should verify the powertrain installed in the exact vehicle they are considering.

1.2-Liter ECOTEC Turbo Engine

The 1.2-liter ECOTEC Turbo is a three-cylinder gasoline engine designed primarily for efficient everyday driving.

It produces approximately:

• 137 horsepower
• 162 pound-feet of torque

On the current Encore GX, this engine is offered with:

• Front-wheel drive
• Continuously variable transmission
• Preferred trim

The 1.2-liter engine is best suited to buyers who prioritize:

• A lower purchase price
• Urban and suburban commuting
• Light passenger and cargo loads
• Smooth everyday driving
• Lower initial ownership costs

1.3-Liter ECOTEC Turbo Engine

The 1.3-liter ECOTEC Turbo is also a three-cylinder engine, but it provides more horsepower and torque than the 1.2-liter.

It produces approximately:

• 155 horsepower
• 174 pound-feet of torque

Depending on configuration, the 1.3-liter engine can be paired with:

• Front-wheel drive and a CVT
• All-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission

For 2026, the 1.3-liter engine is available on Preferred and used on Sport Touring and Avenir configurations.

The 1.3-liter is generally the better choice for buyers who want:

• Stronger acceleration
• More confident highway passing
• Better performance with passengers or cargo
• Available all-wheel drive
• A conventional stepped automatic transmission with AWD
• A more responsive overall driving experience

Which Engine Comes With All-Wheel Drive?

All-wheel-drive Encore GX models use the 1.3-liter turbocharged engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission.

The 1.2-liter engine is limited to front-wheel-drive configurations.

An AWD Encore GX may be preferable for drivers who regularly encounter:

• Snow
• Heavy rain
• Hilly roads
• Gravel surfaces
• Changing seasonal conditions

AWD improves acceleration traction but does not replace appropriate tires or safe driving habits.

CVT vs. Nine-Speed Automatic

Transmission type depends on the selected engine and drivetrain.

Continuously Variable Transmission

Front-wheel-drive Encore GX models use a CVT.

A CVT is designed to keep the engine operating efficiently by varying the transmission ratio rather than shifting through a fixed set of conventional gears.

Potential advantages include:

• Smooth acceleration
• Efficient operation
• Fewer noticeable gear changes
• Lower drivetrain weight

Some drivers may notice sustained engine speed during strong acceleration, which is normal behavior for many CVTs.

Nine-Speed Automatic Transmission

AWD models use a conventional nine-speed automatic transmission.

Potential advantages include:

• Traditional gear changes
• More familiar acceleration behavior
• Stronger compatibility with the AWD system
• Better control across a range of speeds and road conditions

When shopping used, test the vehicle after it reaches operating temperature and check for hesitation, shuddering, delayed engagement, or harsh shifting.

Which Encore GX Trims Get Which Engine?

For the 2026 model year, the powertrain structure generally follows this pattern:

Trim equipment and engine combinations can change between model years.

Is the 1.2-Liter Engine Powerful Enough?

The 1.2-liter engine can be sufficient for:

• Solo commuting
• City driving
• Suburban errands
• Moderate highway use
• Buyers prioritizing price over performance

Its turbocharger provides useful low-speed torque, but acceleration may feel modest when the vehicle is fully loaded or climbing steep grades.

Drivers should test the vehicle under conditions similar to their normal commute before choosing this engine.

Is the 1.3-Liter Engine Worth It?

For many shoppers, yes.

The 1.3-liter provides:

• 18 additional horsepower
• 12 additional pound-feet of torque
• Quicker acceleration
• Better highway passing response
• AWD availability
• Greater flexibility across trims

The difference is not intended to turn the Encore GX into a performance SUV, but it can make the vehicle feel more relaxed and responsive in daily use.

Are Either of the Engines Hybrids?

No. The Encore GX’s 1.2-liter and 1.3-liter engines are conventional turbocharged gasoline engines.

The Encore GX is not currently offered as:

• A conventional hybrid
• A plug-in hybrid
• A fully electric vehicle

Buyers seeking an electrified vehicle will need to compare other models.

Do the Engines Require Premium Fuel?

Encore GX owners should follow the fuel recommendation printed inside the fuel door and in the owner’s manual for their specific model year.

Fuel requirements can depend on the engine calibration and market. Using the recommended octane helps the engine deliver its intended performance and efficiency.

What Should Used Buyers Inspect?

When evaluating a used Encore GX, check:

• Oil-change records
• Smooth cold-start operation
• Turbocharger response
• Oil or coolant leaks
• Engine warning lights
• CVT or automatic transmission behavior
• AWD system operation when equipped
• Battery condition
• Cooling-system maintenance
• Recall completion
• Diagnostic trouble codes

Small turbocharged engines benefit from regular oil changes with the correct oil specification. Missing maintenance records should be considered when negotiating the price or deciding whether to proceed.

Which Encore GX Engine Should You Choose?

Choose the 1.2-liter turbo if you:

• Want the lowest purchase price
• Primarily commute alone
• Drive mostly in a mild climate
• Do not require AWD
• Prefer efficiency over stronger acceleration

Choose the 1.3-liter turbo if you:

• Want better passing performance
• Regularly carry passengers or cargo
• Drive in hilly areas
• Want Sport Touring or Avenir
• Need all-wheel drive
• Prefer a nine-speed automatic with AWD

Explore the Buick research hub for more ownership guidance, or browse available Buick Encore GX inventory to compare engines, trims, drivetrains, mileage, and pricing.