2022 Buick Encore GX vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was a compact SUV that closely resembled its sibling, the Encore, with both models sharing Buick's signature trapezoidal "waterfall" grille and similar design elements. The Encore GX, however, had a slightly longer wheelbase and additional length, which gave it a more balanced appearance. The optional ST (Sport Touring) appearance package enhanced its aesthetic appeal with body-color moldings, custom grille, sport bumpers, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Encore GX offered a comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials and leather seats in the top Essence trim, though some controls were found to be cumbersome.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia maintained a classic and mature design, having been in its second generation since 2008. Its exterior featured a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight lines, giving it a substantial presence. The Sequoia's interior, however, appeared dated compared to modern SUVs, with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch driver information screen. Despite this, the Sequoia's interior was well-constructed with high-quality materials, and the Nightshade Special Edition added a contemporary touch with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engine options: a 1.2-liter engine producing 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter engine delivering 155 horsepower. The 1.2-liter engine was standard on the Preferred and Select trims, while the 1.3-liter engine was standard on the Essence trim and optional on the lower trims. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The Encore GX's 1.3-liter engine and CVT provided adequate power, though the ride was noisier than expected for a Buick, and the driving dynamics were uninspiring.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a robust 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential in 4WD models. The Sequoia had a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and independent double-wishbone suspension.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, provided a comfortable experience with ample front-seat headroom and legroom. Rear-seat knee room was tight, and fitting three adults in the back was unlikely. The cargo space measured 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Encore GX featured a two-level cargo floor and an optional hands-free power liftgate for added convenience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia excelled in passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and available heated and ventilated front seats. The Sequoia's cargo space was generous, with 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row, 66.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 120.1 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The cargo area also included a 12-volt outlet for added utility.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX came equipped with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth audio streaming, and a WiFi hotspot. The Advanced Technology package added features like HD surround vision, a head-up display, and adaptive cruise control. The Encore GX's infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive app layouts and efficient voice recognition.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was less advanced, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch driver information screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with WiFi connectivity and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Limited trim added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, while a premium audio package offered 14 JBL speakers. Despite its dated tech, the Sequoia featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was well-equipped with safety features, including Teen Driver technology, a tire-fill alert system, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. It earned a five-star overall crash protection rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, with "Superior" ratings for front crash prevention.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS but was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, which included pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The Sequoia also featured the STAR safety system, with stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags.