The 2026 Buick Encore GX represents the seventh model year of the first-generation subcompact crossover SUV, for which it receives minor changes.
These changes follow the 2020 Encore GX, which was the model’s introductory year, followed by a mid-cycle refresh to the 2024 Encore GX.
Quick Facts
| Assembly Location | Bupyeong-gu, Incheon, South Korea |
| Body Style(s) | Subcompact 5-door crossover SUV |
| Layout | Front-Engined, Transverse |
| Engine(s) | 1.2L Turbo I3 LBP,1.3L Turbo I3 L3T |
| Transmission(s) | CVT, 9-Speed Auto |
| Drive Wheels | Front-Wheel-Drive, All-Wheel-Drive |
| Availability | U.S.A., Canada, Mexico |
| Also called | Encore (Mexico market) |
| Generational year | Seventh year of first-generation model |
| Changes summary | Minor changes |
| Predecessor | 2025 Buick Encore GX |
| Successor | 2027 Buick Encore GX |
Model Line
The 2026 Buick Encore GX is offered as a subcompact crossover SUV in FWD or AWD across the following trim levels:
- Preferred
- Sport Touring (ST)
- Avenir
Changes, Updates, New Features
The 2026 Buick Encore GX receives minor changes, headlined by exterior color changes and more.
- See the complete list of 2026 Encore GX changes, updates, and new features (link coming soon)
Powertrain
The 2026 Encore GX carries over the engine and transmission choices from the 2025 model year.
| Engine | Fuel | Aspiration | Transmission | Drivetrain | Horsepower @ RPM | Torque @ RPM | Axle Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2L I3 LBP | Gasoline/E85 | Turbocharged | CVT | FWD | 137 @ 5000 | 162 @ 2500 | 5.44 |
| 1.3L I3 L3T | Gasoline | Turbocharged | CVT, 9-Speed Auto | FWD, AWD | 155 @ 5600 | 174 @ 1600 | 5.44, 3.17 |
Production
2026 Buick Encore GX production began in April 2025 at the GM Bupyeong plant in Bupyeong-gu, Incheon, South Korea.
The facility is now the only plant globally that produces the vehicle, since the model is no longer produced at the SAIC-GM Dongyue South plant in China.
Platform
The 2026 Buick Encore GX rides on a variant of GM’s VSS-F platform (vehicle set) which it shares most directly with the Chevy Trailblazer crossover. Another variant of this architecture is used on the first-gen Buick Envista and its corporate cousin, the second-gen Chevy Trax.
Seating
The 2026 Encore GX is offered in a single seating configuration, this setup features front bucket seats (providing seating for two), along with a 40/60 split-bench seat in the rear (seating three), resulting in a 2-3 setup.
Beyond 2026
We expect the current, first-generation Encore GX to remain in production through at least the 2027 model year, at which point it will
Sales
See running Buick Encore GX sales numbers for global markets.
Discussion
Discuss the 2026 Buick Encore GX in our Buick forum.
Encore GX News
2025 Buick Encore GX Gets Expanded Remote Engine Start Availability
Now standard across the range.
Read More »
2025 Buick Encore GX Received These Three New Options
Enhancing convenience, security, and style.
Read More »
