2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Buick Encore GX

The 2022 Buick Encore GX shared a strong family resemblance with its sibling, the Encore, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. Both models featured Buick's signature trapezoidal "waterfall" grille, high beltline, and similar headlight styling. The Encore GX, however, had a slightly longer wheelbase and additional length, giving it a more balanced appearance. The optional ST (Sport Touring) package enhanced its sporty look with custom grille accents, sport bumpers, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather seats in higher trims, though some controls were cumbersome.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma, with a rugged trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. Its side profile introduced a swooping character line, adding visual weight. The rear echoed the grille design, but the overall look felt disjointed compared to competitors. Inside, the Highlander featured an asymmetrical dash with a metallic styling element and a high-mounted infotainment screen. The Bronze Edition's fabric upholstery was less appealing, but other trims offered more conventional materials. The cabin was spacious, especially in the second row, though the third row was less accommodating.

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 hp. The 1.3-liter engine, paired with a CVT in FWD models, provided adequate power, though it was a bit noisy. AWD models used a nine-speed automatic transmission. Despite its small size, the Encore GX handled well, though it lacked inspiring driving dynamics. Noise levels were higher than expected, but the CVT avoided droning. The Encore GX was not designed for off-roading, but it managed gravel and dirt roads with ease.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT. It offered FWD as standard, with AWD available via an electric motor for the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds. The hybrid powertrain provided a smooth transition from electric to gasoline power, though the engine droned under heavy acceleration. Braking was seamless, with regenerative braking recharging the hybrid batteries. The ride was comfortable, with a quiet cabin, making it a pleasant choice for family travel.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, offered a comfortable experience with easy ingress and egress. Controls were clearly marked, and visibility was excellent. Front-seat space was ample, though rear-seat knee room was tight. Cargo space measured 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The two-level cargo floor and optional hands-free power liftgate added convenience.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments. Storage options were plentiful, with trays and bins throughout the cabin. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench. 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 seats folded.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came with an eight-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. Safety features included blind-spot monitoring and a Driver Confidence package. The Advanced Technology package added a head-up display and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive app layouts and efficient voice recognition.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an eight-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option on higher trims. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Higher trims offered a wireless charging pad and JBL audio system. The infotainment system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls for ease of use.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX earned five stars from NHTSA and "Good" ratings from IIHS, with "Superior" crash prevention ratings. Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system were included.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received five stars from NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Some systems needed fine-tuning, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning.