Buick Encore I 1.4T (140 Hp) Automatic


Overall Rating

7.4 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 3.3 / 5
Value 3.5 / 5
Performance 3.0 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Buick Encore:

The Buick Encore is a subcompact crossover SUV built by General Motors from 2012 to 2022. It is a subcompact crossover SUV marketed by Buick and its fourth SUV overall after the Rendezvous, Rainier, and Enclave.
The "Encore" designation was previously used by American Motors Corporation for the subcompact two and four-door hatchback variants of the U. S. -built front-wheel drive Renault Alliance from 1984 to 1987.
The first-generation Encore is a restyled first-generation Chevrolet Trax, and shares the same styling with the European Opel/Vauxhall Mokka. It debuted at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 10, 2012, and went on sale at the end of 2012. The North American Encore is assembled at the GM Korea plant in Bupyeong, South Korea alongside the Trax. The Chinese market Encore is assembled in Shandong....(Read more on Wikipedia)

I Overview:

Buick Encore (I). With 200 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.4 l/100km). With a weight of 1447 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 2012
Adult Occupant 96%
Stars 5
Expert Note:
The Buick Encore I (marketed as Opel Mokka in Europe) achieved an excellent 5-star Euro NCAP rating in 2012, demonstrating strong adult and child occupant protection.

1.4T (140 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

Adequate performance for city driving and highway cruising, though not particularly sporty. The turbocharger provides decent low-end torque for daily tasks.

Fuel Economy

Reasonable fuel economy for a compact SUV with a turbocharged engine, especially on extra-urban cycles, making it a practical choice.

Best Use Case: City / Mixed Driving

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Compact size for city maneuverability and easy parking
  • • Comfortable and quiet cabin for its class
  • • Good standard features and upscale interior touches
  • • Available AWD for improved traction in adverse conditions
  • • Decent cargo space for a subcompact SUV

Cons:

  • • Engine can feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded or at highway speeds
  • • Fuel economy is only average for the segment
  • • Some interior materials feel less premium in lower trims
  • • Known issues with the 1.4T engine (e.g., water pump, PCV valve, turbo leaks)
  • • Automatic transmission can sometimes be hesitant or slow to downshift

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Buick
Model:Encore
Generation:I
Modification (Engine):1.4T (140 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:2012
End of production:2017
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:140 Hp @ 4900 rpm.
Torque:200 Nm @ 1850 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:LUV
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Fuel injection system:Direct injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Engine oil capacity:4 l
Coolant:7.3 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.1 l/100 km
Weight-to-power ratio:10.3 kg/Hp, 96.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.2 kg/Nm, 138.2 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1447
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1370 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:530 l
Fuel tank capacity:53 l
Size:
Length:4277 mm mm
Width:1775 mm mm
Height:1656 mm mm
Wheelbase:2555 mm mm
Ride height (ground clearance):157 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesDisc
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size215/55 R18
Wheel rims size18

Your first impression of the Buick Encore in one word? Go!