2025 Buick Encore GX vs 2026 Honda HR-V
Comparison Overview
The most significant numerical divergence lies in power output, where the 2026 Honda HR-V delivers 158 hp, besting the 2025 Buick Encore GXโs 137 hp by 21 hp. Conversely, the Encore GX claims superior fuel economy with a 30 MPG combined rating versus the HR-V's 28 MPG combined, though the HR-V wins the highway test at 32 MPG versus 31 MPG. Pricewise, the Encore GX starts lower at an MSRP of $25,940 compared to the HR-V's $26,200. Dimensionally, the HR-V is longer at 179.8 inches versus 171.2 inches, which translates to slightly more cargo space (24.4 cu ft vs. 23.5 cu ft). The Encore GX offers higher torque at 162 lb-ft, whereas the HR-V provides more peak horsepower for acceleration.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Buick Encore GX
The 2025 Buick Encore GX wins for commuters due to its marginally better combined fuel economy of 30 MPG and lower starting MSRP of $25,940.
2026 Honda HR-V
The 2026 Honda HR-V accommodates families better with 24.4 cu ft of cargo capacity, exceeding the Encore GX's 23.5 cu ft.
2026 Honda HR-V
The 2026 Honda HR-V is preferred by driving enthusiasts due to its higher 158 hp output compared to the Encore GX's 137 hp.
2025 Buick Encore GX
The 2025 Buick Encore GX offers better initial value with a lower MSRP of $25,940 and superior torque output at 162 lb-ft.
Choose the Buick Encore GX if...
- Fuel efficiency is paramount, as the Encore GX achieves 30 MPG combined.
- Budget constraints dictate a lower entry price, starting at $25,940.
- Higher low-end pulling power is preferred, indicated by 162 lb-ft of torque.
Choose the Honda HR-V if...
- Maximum hauling capacity is necessary, leveraging 24.4 cu ft of cargo space.
- Higher acceleration capability is desired, thanks to 158 hp.
- A physically longer vehicle (179.8 inches) is preferred for on-road presence.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Buick Encore GX | Honda HR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 171.2" | 179.8" |
| Width | 71.4" | 72.4" |
| Height | 64.1" | 63.4" |
| Wheelbase | 102.0" | 104.5" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | โ | โ |
| Lane Departure Warning | โ | โ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | โ | โ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | โ | โ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | โ | โ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | โ | โ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | โ | โ |
| Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags | โ | โ |
| Front Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Rear Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | โ | โ |
| Electronic Stability Control | โ | โ |
| Traction Control System | โ | โ |
| LATCH System | โ | โ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | โ | โ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Brake Assist | โ | โ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | โ | โ |
| Automatic Headlights | โ | โ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | โ | โ |
| LED Headlights | โ | โ |
| Daytime Running Lights | โ | โ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | โ | โ |
| Rear Headrests | 2 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | โ | โ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | โ | โ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | โ | โ |
| Engine Immobilizer | โ | โ |
| Driver Attention Alert | โ | โ |
Engine
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 1.2 L | 2.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 3 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | gas |
| Horsepower | 137 hp @ 5000 rpm | 158 hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Torque | 162 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm | 138 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 12 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | โ | โ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | front wheel drive | front wheel drive |
| Hill Descent Control | โ | โ |
Fuel
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | flex-fuel (unleaded/E85) | regular unleaded |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 30/31 MPG | 26/32 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 30 MPG | 28 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 396.0/409.2 mi. | 364.0/448.0 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.2 gal. | 14.0 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | โ | โ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Electric Power Steering | โ | โ |
| Rear View Camera | โ | โ |
| Cruise Control | โ | โ |
| Front Cupholders | โ | โ |
| Rear Cupholders | โ | โ |
| Front Door Pockets | โ | โ |
| Rear Door Pockets | โ | โ |
| Front Seatback Storage | โ | โ |
| Leatherette Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Single Zone Climate Control | โ | โ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | โ | โ |
| Interior Air Filtration | โ | โ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Wireless Charging Pad | โ | โ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | โ | โ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 11.0 in | 9.0 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | โ | โ |
| Speaker System | 6 | 4 |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | โ | โ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | โ | โ |
| USB Port | โ | โ |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | โ | โ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | โ | โ |
| Satellite Radio | โ | โ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 3 months | โ |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | โ | โ |
| Stereo Power | โ | 180W |
Power Feature
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 1 |
| Keyless Entry | โ | โ |
| Heated Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Remote Keyless Entry | โ | โ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 39.7 in. | 39.4 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 40.9 in. | 41.9 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.4 in. | 56.6 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 51.9 in. | 54.0 in. |
| Seat Material: Leatherette/Cloth | โ | โ |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | โ | โ |
| Driver Seat Manual Adjustments | 6-way | 6-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | โ | โ |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | 4-way | 4-way |
| Seat Material: Cloth | โ | โ |
Rearseats
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 38.1 in. | 38.0 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 36.0 in. | 37.7 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 53.6 in. | 55.2 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 50.7 in. | 47.4 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | โ | โ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Size | 18 x 7.5 in | โ |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | 225/55R18 | 215/60R H |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | Inside Mounted |
| Wheel Diameter | โ | 17 in |
Suspension
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension Type | Independent | โ |
| Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | โ | โ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
Warranty
| Feature | Buick | Honda |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 6 yr./ 100000 mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | 1 yr./ unlimited mi. | 1 yr./ 12000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Buick Encore GX and 2026 Honda HR-V.
Which crossover offers better fuel economy for highway driving?
The 2026 Honda HR-V achieves a marginally better highway MPG rating of 32 MPG, while the 2025 Buick Encore GX trails slightly at 31 MPG.
What is the horsepower difference between the two models?
The 2026 Honda HR-V has a substantial advantage in power, delivering 158 hp, which is 21 hp more than the 137 hp produced by the 2025 Buick Encore GX.
Is the Buick Encore GX cheaper than the Honda HR-V?
Yes, the 2025 Buick Encore GX has a lower Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $25,940, compared to the 2026 Honda HR-V's starting price of $26,200.
How much more cargo space does the HR-V provide?
The 2026 Honda HR-V offers 24.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity, which is 0.9 cu ft more than the 23.5 cu ft available in the 2025 Buick Encore GX.
Do both vehicles offer similar powertrains?
Both utilize continuously variable-speed automatic transmissions and are front-wheel drive, but the Encore GX can run on flex-fuel (E85) while the HR-V requires regular unleaded fuel.
Which vehicle has more low-end power for hauling or towing scenarios?
The 2025 Buick Encore GX delivers superior low-end grunt with 162 lb-ft of torque compared to the HR-V's 138 lb-ft of torque.
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