Car News

Refreshed 2017 Buick Encore Revealed

Buick unveiled the refreshed 2017 Encore today, in advance of the start of the New York International Auto Show on March 25. The changes are largely cosmetic, with the 2017 Encore getting a new fascia with revised bumpers, grille and front lights. Higher trim models will receive full LED headlights, with all models getting LED accent lighting in the head- and tail-lights. Other changes include available 18-inch wheels, chrome exhaust tips and three new colours.

The updated interior features higher quality materials, new accents and contrast stitching. The gauge cluster gains a 4.2-inch information screen and while the infotainment system now boasts an 8-inch touchscreen. The refreshed Encore also offers Bose active noise cancellation, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot warnings, and lane departure warnings. The newest-generation OnStar system will be present with a 4G LTE hotspot, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Under the hood, you'll find a 1.4 L 4-cylinder turbo Ecotech engine as standard. Higher trims will have a direct-injected variant as an option, with more power and improved fuel economy over the base engine. Power figures are not yet available, but Buick quotes 9.5 L/100 km city and 7.2 L/100 km highway for the base engine, while direct injection and auto-stop/start improves the up-level engine to 8.5 L/100 km city, 6.9 L/100 km highway. Front-wheel drive is standard, with available all-wheel drive.

The following trim levels have been announced for the US market: Encore, Encore Sport Touring, Encore Convenience, Encore Leather and Encore Premium. Canadian pricing and specifications are not yet available, but the Encore should be available at dealers this fall.