“If you are looking for a small sturdy trustworthy vehicle the Buick Encore fits the bill.”
2021 Buick Encore: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2021 Buick Encore is a simpler two-trim lineup: base and Preferred. Otherwise, it is a quiet carryover year with no redesign, powertrain upgrade, or major safety or technology update.
About the 2021 Buick Encore
1st generation (2013-2022 U.S.), late-cycle simplified-lineup year
Buick presents the Encore as a small, premium-leaning SUV for city and suburban drivers who want an easy step-in height, tidy exterior size, a quiet cabin, and flexible cargo space. Its core appeal is not outright speed or rugged capability; it is comfort, easy maneuvering, phone-friendly infotainment, and a more upscale feel than many basic subcompact SUVs. QuietTuning noise reduction and versatile seating are central parts of that identity.
The 2021 Encore is a small, quiet SUV offered in base and Preferred trims, with Preferred positioned as the more complete version. Both have a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a six-speed automatic transmission, keyless start, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cabin noise reduction, and folding seats for flexible cargo space. AWD is limited to the Preferred trim.
What changed, by category
Lineup
Buick dropped the Sport Touring and Essence trims, leaving only base and Preferred. Preferred became the top trim in the regular Encore range.
2021 Buick Encore specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, ECOTEC, Turbo, 1.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, ECOTEC, Turbo, 1.4 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Shift Control | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Shift Control |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24–25 mpg | 24–25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 30–32 mpg | 30–32 mpg |
| Horsepower | 138–155 hp | 138–155 hp |
| Torque | 148–177 lb-ft | 148–177 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 48.4 cu-ft | 48.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.8 in | 35.8 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Bluetooth | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Power Driver Seat | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is different about the 2021 Buick Encore compared with the 2020 model?
The main difference is the smaller trim lineup. Buick dropped the Sport Touring and Essence trims for 2021, leaving base and Preferred; the rest of the Encore carries over without a redesign or major equipment update.
Was the 2021 Buick Encore redesigned?
No, the 2021 Buick Encore was not redesigned. It remains part of the first generation and keeps the same basic body, cabin packaging, and mechanical layout as the prior year.
Which trims does the 2021 Buick Encore have?
The 2021 Buick Encore has two trims: base and Preferred. Preferred is the top trim and is the only one offered with AWD.
Did the 2021 Buick Encore get a new engine?
No, the 2021 Buick Encore did not receive a confirmed powertrain upgrade. It continues with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.
Did the 2021 Buick Encore add a new standard safety suite?
No, the 2021 Buick Encore did not add a new standard driver-assistance suite across the lineup. Extra driver-assistance features remain limited to optional packages on the Preferred trim.
2021 Buick Encore Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Buick Encore.
4.1
2021 Buick Encore
(208 reviews)
“I love my Encore "" Ms Silver"" Beautiful, comfortable, drives well and good value for the money.”
“Exceptionally well appointed with comfortable seats and safety devices that are standard in this vehicle versus other vehicles as well as reasonable pricing.”