Not many people would expect a Buick Encore with 300 turbocharged horsepower, but maybe that’s the point. Indeed, the Encore has never exactly been the darling of the performance world, and is typically branded as a modest subcompact crossover with a focus on daily comfort and practicality. Nevertheless, this particular example takes the platform to a whole new level thanks to a generous heaping of boost.
This tuned Buick Encore is an example of the pre-refresh first-generation, and was built by the folks at ZZ Performance. If that name sounds familiar, it’s likely because ZZ Performance is the same shop that built upgraded GM sleepers like this Chevy Sonic or Chevy Cruze, as GM Authority covered previously.
True to form, this Buick Encore has now been transformed from grocery-getter to smile-maker thanks to a series of thoughtful upgrades. Under the hood, you’ll find the familiar turbocharged 1.4L I4 LUV gasoline engine, the same powerplant found in the Chevy Sonic, but with ZZP’s Z04 big turbo kit added in, pushing output into the 300-horsepower ballpark.
To support the bigger turbo, this Encore features upgraded fuel injectors, a front-mount intercooler kit, and a full turbo-back exhaust system. Funny enough, the exhaust exits a custom side-cut in the rear bumper. The exterior also shows off aftermarket wheels wrapped in knobby rubber and a roof rack with an LED light bar, along with auxiliary pod lights on the hood – all relatively subtle items considering the extra performance.
Putting the power to the ground is the factory all-wheel drive system, which makes full-throttle pulls far more usable than one might expect. The crossover is also equipped with larger brakes, another necessary upgrade in light of the extra power.
Inside, the Encore’s cabin remains largely stock, aside from the subtle changes in engine noise resulting from the performance upgrades. The basic interior, complete with a high-mounted infotainment screen and basic wood trim, keeps it all relatively under the radar.
Check out the full feature video, including driving impressions, right here:
Comments
Just like ours except for the wheels…
Wonder if they beefed up the trans at all
That’s is an excellent question im curious about! If the 6T45 here can handle 300 HP, what can other GM transaxles handle???? For reference my traverse with the 9T60 when looked up the transmission spec sheet says it’s rated to tow 6700 lbs, but the SUV itself is rated at only 5000. Also, the new 8 speeds share housing and most internals with the 9’s. Can I LS swap my traverse when my V6 is dead??? I recently found out the 5 speed manual in my college Sunfire has seen people put up to 700 HP out of that unit. Not enough info, and too many JUICY questions! Guess I’ll have to be the guinea pig once 300’000miles rolls over the OD.
It’s still a Buick. Talking about putting lipstick on a pig!