Used Buick Encore Review in Columbia IL

A used Buick Encore is a strong option for drivers who want a smaller SUV that is easy to park, comfortable on daily commutes, and practical for errands and weekend plans. The Encore fits many lifestyles in Columbia, Illinois and the Metro East because it offers SUV seating height without the size and fuel costs of a larger vehicle. This review explains what to know before buying a used Buick Encore, including real world comfort, interior space, fuel economy, safety features, reliability considerations, and what to check during your test drive.

At Brockland Buick GMC in Columbia, Illinois, we help shoppers compare pre-owned Buick SUVs every day. The Encore is commonly chosen by drivers who prioritize efficient commuting, a quieter ride than many entry-level crossovers, and a manageable size for parking lots, downtown driving, and tight garages. If your goal is to get into a comfortable SUV at a practical price point, the Encore is often worth a close look.

What Makes the Buick Encore a Popular Used SUV

The biggest advantage of the Encore is how easy it is to live with. It is compact enough to feel stress-free in traffic and parking situations, but it still provides the higher seating position that many SUV shoppers want. The cabin is designed with comfort in mind, and many used Encore models include features that make daily driving feel more upscale than you might expect in a small SUV.

The Encore can be a strong fit if you want an SUV for commuting, school drop offs, errands, and shorter road trips. It is also a common choice for first-time buyers who want something practical, safe, and easy to drive without stepping up to a larger SUV. In the used market, the key is shopping by condition, trim, and features rather than chasing the lowest price.

Interior Comfort and Daily Practicality

When you sit in a used Buick Encore, the first thing many drivers notice is the seating position. The Encore gives you a more upright view of the road than a sedan, which can help with confidence in traffic. Front seat comfort is generally a highlight, especially for commuters who spend significant time behind the wheel.

Rear-seat space in a compact SUV will always involve tradeoffs, so it is important to match the Encore to your passenger needs. If you regularly carry adult passengers in the back seat, make sure you spend time checking leg room and comfort. If the back seat is used mostly for kids, shorter trips, or occasional passengers, the Encore can be a very practical solution.

Cargo space is a major consideration for Encore buyers. The rear cargo area is designed for daily life, including groceries, bags, and smaller household items. Folding the rear seats increases usable space significantly, which is helpful when you need to carry larger boxes or weekend travel gear. A good shopping move is to bring a realistic checklist of what you plan to carry and confirm the space works for your routine.

Fuel Economy and Commuting Value

Many drivers choose the Encore because it can deliver strong value for commuting. Fuel economy matters most in daily ownership, and a compact SUV often costs less to operate than a larger vehicle. When you compare used SUVs in Columbia IL, the Encore tends to appeal to shoppers who want SUV convenience without higher fuel consumption.

When you test drive, pay attention to how the Encore feels at the speeds you drive most often. It should feel stable and comfortable on the highway and manageable around town. If your commute includes frequent highway time, focus on cabin noise, road feel, and how relaxed the vehicle feels at steady speeds. If your commute is mostly city driving, focus on visibility, turning radius, and parking ease.

Ride Quality and Driving Experience

The Encore is designed for comfort and ease. It is not meant to feel like a performance SUV, but it should feel confident and predictable. A properly maintained Encore should provide smooth braking, consistent acceleration, and stable steering. During your test drive, the vehicle should track straight, respond normally to steering input, and avoid unusual vibration.

Because the Encore is compact, it can feel especially convenient in tighter spaces. Take time to test parking and low-speed maneuvers during your visit. A small SUV that is easy to position and park becomes a meaningful advantage in daily life, especially for drivers who spend time in shopping centers and crowded lots.

Technology and Convenience Features to Look For

Technology features vary by model year and trim, so the best approach is to identify your must-have features and verify them on the vehicle you are considering. Many shoppers want smartphone connectivity, a clear backup camera, and comfort upgrades that make the Encore feel more premium.

Common Encore features that add day-to-day value include smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth, backup cameras, parking assistance features, heated seats, remote start on some configurations, and comfort-focused interior upgrades. If features matter to you, confirm the infotainment system operates properly, the screen responds quickly, and the audio and microphone work well during a phone call test.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

Safety is a key reason many buyers choose a smaller SUV. The Encore can include driver assistance and safety technologies depending on trim and model year. The most important step is confirming what the vehicle actually has and ensuring it functions properly. Do not assume every used Encore includes the same safety equipment.

During your inspection, confirm that warning lights are off, cameras are functioning, and any safety sensors operate normally. Also evaluate tire condition, because tires impact braking and wet-weather traction. Safety is not just technology, it is also the mechanical condition of the vehicle.

Reliability and Ownership Considerations

When you buy a used Buick Encore, the long-term experience depends heavily on how the vehicle was cared for. A well-maintained Encore can be a dependable daily driver for years. A neglected one can create avoidable ownership costs. That is why service history, condition, and a thorough test drive matter as much as the model name.

Start by looking for signs of consistent maintenance. Good signs include clean fluids, normal engine behavior during warm-up, consistent shifting behavior, and an interior that reflects responsible ownership. As you test drive, listen for unusual noises over bumps, pay attention to braking response, and verify electronics work properly.

It is also smart to consider where you will maintain the vehicle. Having a service plan and knowing where routine maintenance will be handled can help you keep ownership predictable. If you plan to keep your used Encore for several years, buying a vehicle that has been cared for is typically the best financial decision.

AWD vs FWD - How to Choose the Right Configuration

Depending on the year and configuration, you may find Encore models with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The right choice depends on your driving environment and priorities. Many drivers choose front-wheel drive for simplicity and efficiency. Others prefer all-wheel drive for extra confidence in wet or winter conditions.

If you prioritize winter traction or you drive frequently on rural roads, all-wheel drive can provide peace of mind. If most of your driving is around town or on well-maintained routes, front-wheel drive may be the most cost-effective choice. The best approach is to match the drivetrain to how and where you drive, not just what sounds best on paper.

Certified Pre-Owned vs Standard Used

If you are shopping newer model years, you may find certified pre-owned Buick options alongside standard used vehicles. Certified pre-owned vehicles often include additional inspection requirements and potential warranty coverage. Standard used vehicles can offer wider selection and a lower upfront cost.

Compare both by reviewing certified pre-owned availability and browsing our full used inventory. The right choice depends on how long you plan to keep the vehicle and how much you value added coverage.

Financing and Budget Planning

Budget planning is one of the best ways to reduce stress during the buying process. Start by estimating payments using the payment calculator. Then complete the online pre-approval application so you can shop with clarity and focus on the right options.

If you have a vehicle to trade, using KBB trade value early can help you understand your numbers before you pick a specific Encore. Knowing your approximate payment range helps you compare vehicles faster and avoid wasting time on options that do not fit your goals.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Buick Encore

A compact SUV can be an excellent value, but only if you validate condition and features. Use a structured checklist so you do not overlook something important during your visit.

Start with basic condition checks. Confirm tire tread depth and look for uneven wear. Inspect the interior for excessive wear on high-touch areas like the steering wheel, seat bolsters, and controls. Verify that windows, locks, climate controls, and infotainment features work properly.

During your test drive, focus on how the Encore behaves in real situations. Acceleration should feel consistent, braking should be smooth and confident, and the vehicle should not pull to one side. Listen for unusual noise over bumps and verify that the cabin feels stable at highway speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Used Buick Encore

Shop Used Buick Encore Models at Brockland GMC Buick

If you are ready to start shopping, browse our used inventory, schedule a test drive, and use the payment calculator to plan your purchase.

Brockland Buick GMC in Columbia, Illinois is here to help you compare options and choose a used Buick Encore that fits your needs.