Buick Encore Ranks Highest in Segment

The all-new 2013 Buick Encore has been recognized by J.D. Power as the top ranking sub-compact CUV in its “Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout Study” (APEAL). This study examines customer satisfaction during the first 90 days of new vehicle ownership or leasing. A total of 83,000 responses were compiled in the 2013 APEAL study.

Tony DiSalle, Buick’s VP of Marketing, suggested that “this award reinforces our focus on putting the customer at the center of everything we do.” He also credited the GM’s innovative team when he said, “Recognizing the Encore demonstrates the effort and attention to detail given by our engineers and designers.”

Furthermore, J.D. Power’s rankings based upon initial quality also recognized the Encore. Buick’s CUV was recognized, in a tie, as the “Highest Ranked Sub-Compact CUV in Initial Quality.” These accolades make for an auspicious debut for the Encore, as the 2013 CUV represents Buick’s first foray into the sub-compact crossover category.

The Encore’s advanced suspension swallows ruts and bumps with ease. The all-new Encore has a whisper-quiet cabin, thanks to some advanced “quiet-tuning” techniques, including noise cancellation technology from Bose.

The front-wheel drive Encore features an impressive EPA highway rating of 33 mpg thanks in part to the efficiency of the 1.4L turbo-charged engine. The Encore is further rated at 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg in combined city and highway driving. Motorists enjoy the elevated seating position offered by a CUV while simultaneously achieving car-like fuel efficiency.

At the same time, the Encore is definitely a Buick. The sculpted design and luxurious interior appointments are Buick trademarks. At 168-inches long, the Encore is particularly easy to park.

Even the standard version includes GM’s Intellilink personal electronic communications system with a seven-inch touchscreen display. The six-speaker Bose audio is also standard. Bluetooth and an iPod/USB interface is found in every Encore.

Heated side mirrors and 18-inch alloy wheels are automatically included as well. A six-way power driver’s seat and a fold-flat passenger seat are are standard features as well. The latter feature is pretty nifty in that it allows one to transport items up to eight-feet long. Even with just the rear seats folded down, the Encore offers 48.4 cu-ft of cargo space.

Higher trim levels offer various amenities like remote start, 120v power outlet, rain-sensing wipers, heated leather front-row seats, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and front/rear parking sensors.

Encore buyers can also avail themselves of available all-wheel drive, navigation, chrome wheels, and a power sunroof.

The high degree of customer satisfaction noted in J.D. Power’s APEAL study bodes well for Buick’s initial entry into this CUV category. Buick luxury and performance combined with 33 mpg capability on the highway is sure to continue to generate enthusiasm for the Encore.