2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Buick Encore GX

The 2021 Buick Encore GX was praised for its stylish design, a significant improvement over the original Encore, which was humorously nicknamed “the shoe” by GM insiders. The Encore GX offered a sleek exterior with no awkward proportions, available in three trim levels: Preferred, Select, and Essence. Buyers could opt for the Sport Touring package across all trims, and choose between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The interior, however, did not match the exterior's elegance, with hard-to-read analog gauges and a vibrating head-up display that detracted from its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma, featuring a rugged trapezoidal grille. While the front design was bold, the side profile introduced a softer character line, creating a somewhat disjointed appearance. The interior was unconventional yet functional, with an asymmetrical dash and ample storage options. The Bronze Edition test vehicle had light grey fabric seats with a peculiar pattern, which seemed less durable for family use. Despite its styling quirks, the Highlander Hybrid offered a quieter cabin and was one of the few hybrids in its class.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX featured two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The 1.2-liter engine produced 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.3-liter engine offered 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. The Encore GX provided adequate power for highway cruising, though it lacked refinement. The FWD models used a CVT, while AWD versions had a nine-speed automatic transmission. Despite Buick's QuietTuning efforts, the cabin was not particularly quiet, and the ride quality was inconsistent.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower. It used a CVT and offered AWD through an electric motor on the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds. The ride was soft, with the suspension effectively smoothing out road imperfections. The cabin remained quiet, except when the engine was pushed hard, resulting in a droning noise. The braking system transitioned seamlessly from regenerative to physical brakes, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX provided a high seating position with supportive front seats, though the rear seats were less comfortable. Interior storage was ample, with a trunk offering 23.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 50.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The test vehicle included a fold-flat front passenger seat for carrying long items.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with plenty of adjustments. The second row was spacious, accommodating taller passengers comfortably, while the third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the second row stowed.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX featured an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included Bluetooth for two devices, a WiFi hotspot, and steering wheel stereo controls. The Advanced Technology Package added navigation and a surround-view camera, though the test car lacked the Bose premium sound system.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Higher trims offered a wireless charging pad, navigation, and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The infotainment system was responsive, with physical buttons for ease of use.

The 2021 Buick Encore GX came with Buick Driver Confidence, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. It earned a five-star safety rating from NHTSA. The adaptive cruise control had limitations, and the lane-keeping assist felt unnatural.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star NHTSA rating and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. It included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The safety systems generally performed well, though some features required fine-tuning.