Overview
The Buick Encore GX has carved out a strong position in the compact SUV segment because it manages to deliver genuine refinement without the price tag that usually comes with it. But walking into a dealership or browsing inventory without understanding what separates one trim from another makes the buying process harder than it needs to be. At Leachman Buick GMC in Bowling Green, our team helps customers work through these decisions every day, and the Encore GX is one of the more popular conversations we have on the floor.
Multiple Distinct Trims
? Preferred
? Sport Touring
? Avenir
Starting With the Preferred
The Preferred is the entry point into the Encore GX lineup, and it is worth being clear that entry point does not mean stripped down. The base trim comes standard with a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, an 8-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rear vision camera, and lane keep assist. For a buyer who wants a comfortable, well-equipped compact SUV without paying for features they will not use regularly, the Preferred makes a strong case for itself.
Front-wheel drive is standard on the Preferred, with all-wheel drive available as an upgrade. If you are primarily driving around Bowling Green or commuting through Franklin, front-wheel drive handles those conditions without issue. If you are heading into more variable terrain or want extra confidence in winter weather, the AWD option is worth factoring into the budget.
The Sport Touring Trim
The ST, or Sport Touring, takes a different approach to the Encore GX formula. The mechanical fundamentals are the same, but the exterior treatment shifts toward a sportier aesthetic with a blacked-out grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and specific ST badging that distinguishes it visually from the rest of the lineup. The interior picks up some of that same character with sport accents and unique trim details.
If your priority is a more aggressive looking compact SUV that still delivers the Buick refinement underneath, the ST is the direction to go. It appeals to a younger buyer profile and to anyone who wants their daily driver to have a bit more visual presence in the parking lot.
Top of the Line: Avenir Trim
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir brings first-class luxury to the compact SUV segment. On the outside, it sets itself apart with a signature Pearl Nickel grille, exclusive 19-inch aluminum wheels, and sleek chrome-accented fascias. Step inside, and you’re greeted by a whisper-quiet cabin featuring quilted leather-appointed seating, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control.
Under the hood, a punchy 1.3L Turbo engine comes standard, while an immersive 11-inch ultrawide touchscreen anchors the dash with seamless wireless connectivity—delivering big-SUV sophistication in a perfectly nimble package.
Let Leachman Buick GMC Help You Compare Trims
At Leachman Buick GMC, we can help you compare Buick trims side-by-side without making your brain melt. We’ll walk you through what changes from one trim to the next, what is worth paying for, and what you can safely skip. Visit Leachman Buick GMC in Bowling Green to explore our massive lineup and find the exact trim that fits your budget, your driving style, and your actual life.
*MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) for base trim excludes tax, title, license, documentation fees, destination charge, and optional equipment. Dealer sets actual price. See dealer for details. All incentives and offers subject to change. Leachman Buick GMC, 2012 Scottsville Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42104. Sales: 270-729-1685. For complete vehicle details visit www.leachmanauto.com. For manufacturer information check Buick official site.