The 2016 Buick Encore is a subcompact luxury crossover offered by General Motors, typically equipped with a 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and available front-wheel or all-wheel drive. This profile outlines its trim levels, standard and optional features, powertrain choices, fuel economy estimates, common reported issues, maintenance considerations, and ownership costs to support informed purchase or ownership decisions.
Overview and model year context
Introduced for the 2013 model year, the Encore carried forward for 2016 with largely carryover design and mechanicals, sitting below the Equinox in Buick’s crossover hierarchy. It targets buyers seeking a more premium interior and driving dynamics than some rivals, in a practical and efficient package. For 2016, trim lines include base, Preferred, Leather, and Premium, with incremental feature and equipment upgrades moving up the range.
Trim levels and equipment
Each trim adds features while retaining the core architecture shared with the Opel Mokka. Entry-level models include fundamental safety and infotainment, while higher trims introduce leather seating surfaces, enhanced safety suites, and upgraded infotainment with navigation. Available features can include heated front seats, power liftgate, panoramic moonroof, and upgraded audio depending on trim level.
Trim hierarchy in brief
| Trim | Key differentiators | Typical availability |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Core safety and infotainment, cloth seating | Standard |
| Preferred | More features, available alloy wheels | Available |
| Leather | Leather-trimmed seating surfaces, additional tech | Available |
| Premium | Upgraded infotainment, power liftgate, enhanced materials | Available |
Powertrain and fuel economy
The predominant powertrain is a 1.4L Ecotec turbocharged inline-four paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is an option on most trims. EPA-estimated fuel economy varies slightly by configuration but generally falls in the low-to-mid 20s mpg combined for AWD models, while two-wheel-drive versions typically achieve low 30s mpg combined, reflecting the small-displacement turbocharged engine and light curb weight.
| Drivetrain | EPA city (mpg) | EPA highway (mpg) | EPA combined (mpg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| FWD manual | 24 | 36 | 29 |
| FWD auto | 22 | 33 | 27 |
| AWD auto | 21 | 29 | 24 |
Drivetrain notes
- Front-wheel drive is standard on most trims; all-wheel drive is optional.
- The turbocharged 1.4L engine is designed for premium fuel for optimal performance and longevity, though regular may be used with certain tradeoffs.
Interior, comfort, and technology
The Encore’s interior emphasizes materials and fit‑and‑finish for its class, with available leather seating surfaces, soft-touch surfaces, and ambient lighting on higher trims. Seating is compact but comfortable for city driving, with rear space suitable for passengers on shorter trips. Available tech features include an 8-inch infotainment screen (on Premium), Bluetooth connectivity, and rearview camera. Higher trims may add navigation, remote start, and enhanced driver assistance options.
Safety features
Standard safety equipment on most 2016 models includes forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and available rear cross-traffic alert. The availability of advanced safety features increases with trim level. Buyers are encouraged to verify the specific safety package tied to a particular build, as packages and options can vary by market and model code.
Reliability, maintenance, and common concerns
General Motors redesigned the platform for 2016 with refinements aimed at improving durability. Routine maintenance follows manufacturer recommendations, with attention to turbocharger upkeep and transmission service intervals being important. Some owners have reported issues with infotune software updates and, in rare cases, turbo or transmission concerns; checking service bulletins and maintenance records is advisable when considering a used example. As of the most recent model-year timelines available, no widespread recall affecting all 2016 units remains unresolved, though owners should confirm outstanding campaigns through their dealer or VIN check.
Practical ownership considerations
- Use GM-recommended engine oil specification and intervals.
- Monitor software update communications from dealers.
- Inspect service records for turbo and transmission maintenance.
Ownership costs and resale
Ownership costs include scheduled maintenance, potential turbo service intervals, and tire replacement frequency typical for compact crossovers. Repair costs are generally in line with segment averages when routine service is kept up. Resale value is generally competitive within the subcompact luxury segment, supported by brand presence and model-year continuity. The Encore sits below the Trax in size and above it in perceived interior refinement, offering a niche for buyers who want a more premium-feeling small crossover.
Buying checklist for a 2016 Encore
- Confirm trim level and included equipment, as feature content varies widely.
- Check service records, especially for turbo, transmission, and software updates.
- Verify open recalls and technical service bulletins via the VIN with a dealer.
- Inspect for panel gaps, sunroof drains, and suspension components during inspection.
- Test infotainment, Bluetooth, and safety systems on a test drive.
Summary
The 2016 Buick Encore represents a stable, premium-oriented subcompact crossover with a capable turbocharged engine and a well-finished interior for its class. Trim levels offer clear delineations in features, while the available AWD system broadens usability in varied climates. Routine maintenance, attention to turbo care, and verification of recalls and software updates are key to long-term satisfaction.