2023 Buick Encore GX vs 2023 BMW X7

The 2023 Buick Encore GX did not reflect the brand's storied design history, such as the iconic 1938 Y-Job. Its styling was a departure from the past without forging a new path, resulting in awkward proportions that failed to capture the SUV appeal. The optional Sport Touring Package added subtle enhancements, but the differences were barely noticeable unless compared side-by-side with a standard model. Inside, the Encore GX Essence trim offered expected features like leather upholstery and power-adjustable seats, but the abundance of plastic reminded us of its entry-level status within Buick's lineup. The interior design was uninspired, with a dashboard and door panels reminiscent of outdated 1990s aesthetics, though the instrument cluster stood out with its well-framed digital display.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW X7 underwent a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bold new front-end design inspired by the 7 Series sedan. The LED accent lights and recessed headlights created a polarizing look, with the oversized kidney grille remaining a point of contention. While the front styling was divisive, the sides and rear retained their previous design, offering a sense of familiarity. The interior received a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen, along with a more streamlined dashboard design. The X7's interior materials were of premium quality, with options for matte and open-pore wood trims that added warmth and avoided glare. Despite the controversial exterior, the interior updates provided a modern and elegant feel.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX offered two turbocharged three-cylinder engines. The standard 1.2-liter engine produced 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, while the optional 1.3-liter engine delivered 155 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for the 1.3-liter engine. The FWD models used a CVT, while AWD models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 1.3-liter AWD test car provided stronger acceleration than expected, but power delivery was not smooth, requiring patience to get the most out of the engine. The Encore GX excelled in ride comfort and noise reduction, thanks to its well-damped suspension and active noise cancellation. However, it felt ponderous and awkward, with slow and lifeless steering.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup began with the xDrive40i model, featuring a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well, with potent acceleration from the V8 and adequate performance from the six-cylinder. The ride was comfortable, though slightly firmer than some luxury SUVs, reflecting BMW's focus on engaging driving dynamics. The X7 offered a good balance of performance and comfort.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX provided competitive passenger space, with headroom comparable to rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30. However, the Subaru Crosstrek offered more front legroom, and the Kia Seltos provided more rear-seat space. The Encore GX's cargo capacity was respectable, with 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The front seats were positioned close together, reducing spaciousness, and lacked thigh support. Despite the limited cabin size, Buick maximized small-item storage with large door pockets and a space-efficient wireless phone charger. The instrumentation was well-executed, with clear information displays and an array of hard buttons for ease of use.

The 2023 BMW X7 excelled in interior space, with ample room for second-row passengers and an airy feel enhanced by the large sunroof and windows. Accessing the third row required some time due to the power-operated middle row, but it provided a large opening. The third row accommodated average-sized adults, though thigh support was limited. Cargo space was 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with it folded, and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats down. The split tailgate and suspension-lowering feature aided loading. Front-seat storage was generous, with a large center console bin and well-sized cupholders.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX featured a standard 8-inch touchscreen and 4.2-inch driver information display, with optional navigation, head-up display, and Bose audio system. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM radio. The interface was user-friendly, with attractive graphics, though the screen size was modest. The infotainment system was easy to navigate, with a layout consistent with other GM vehicles.

The 2023 BMW X7 came with the latest iDrive infotainment system, which was less intuitive than previous versions. Basic functions were straightforward, but many controls were moved to the touchscreen, complicating tasks like adjusting seat settings and cruise control. Voice commands offered a workaround, but they interrupted audio playback. The system's complexity highlighted the need for more physical buttons and intuitive menus.

The 2023 Buick Encore GX included standard driver assist features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and a Teen Driver system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. The Encore GX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick, with top crash test ratings.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash test results from NHTSA and IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard equipment included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive headlights. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera, with options for adaptive cruise control and highway driving assist. The safety features performed reliably, reducing driver fatigue on long trips.