2022 Buick Encore GX vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, fitting snugly between the Lexus UX and RX models. Its design, while not traditionally SUV-like, maintained a familiar Lexus aesthetic. The F Sport Black Line variant added a distinctive mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint, which contrasted nicely with the darker trim elements. Inside, the NX Hybrid's interior design, once radical, had become familiar due to its lack of updates. The F Sport package added sporty touches like aluminum pedals and blue-stitched NuLuxe upholstery, but the material quality leaned more towards mainstream than luxury.

In contrast, the 2022 Buick Encore GX shared a strong family resemblance with its sibling, the Encore, featuring Buick's signature trapezoidal grille and similar styling cues. The Encore GX, however, benefited from a slightly longer wheelbase, giving it a more balanced appearance. The optional ST package enhanced its sporty look with custom grille accents and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and a user-friendly layout. The Whisper Beige leather seats with Ebony accents added a touch of elegance, while the controls were straightforward and easy to use.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total of 194 horsepower. Despite its sporty F Sport styling, the NX Hybrid was more focused on efficiency than performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with seamless power delivery. Drive modes offered minimal impact on performance, with Eco mode further dulling acceleration.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines: a 1.2-liter with 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter with 155 horsepower. The 1.3-liter engine, paired with a CVT in FWD models, provided adequate power for merging and highway driving, though it was a bit noisy. The Encore GX's ride was less refined than expected, with noticeable noise and vibration. However, the CVT avoided droning, and the vehicle handled predictably, if uninspiringly.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. Front seats offered good support, and features like power adjustment and heated/ventilated options were available. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. Visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars, though exterior mirrors helped.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, provided ample front-seat headroom and legroom. Rear-seat space was tighter, but the vehicle's design facilitated easy entry and exit. Cargo space measured 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The Encore GX featured a two-level cargo floor and an optional hands-free power liftgate, enhancing practicality.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a cumbersome Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt outdated, with poor graphics and difficult-to-read menus. The base audio system was underwhelming, lacking the quality expected from a luxury brand.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered a more user-friendly tech experience with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of connectivity options. The Advanced Technology package added features like a head-up display and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system was intuitive, with clear app layouts and efficient voice recognition.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, though it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX also performed well in safety tests, receiving five stars from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS. It included standard driver assistance features and offered additional safety options like Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system.