2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2020 Buick Encore GX

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid distinguished itself from its gas-powered counterparts with unique visual elements. It featured bright gray inserts along the sides and front lower bumper, as well as blue frames around the upgraded headlight clusters. The exclusive “Lagoon Blue” color added to its eye-catching appeal. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid boasted blue inserts and two-tone leather seats with blue contrast stitching, all standard. Despite its well-equipped nature, the hybrid's rear cargo space was compromised due to the battery placement, resulting in a higher cargo floor.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX presented a more mature and complete appearance compared to the standard Encore. It was slightly larger in every dimension, with a larger grille and revised headlights and taillights. The interior echoed this maturity with a well-crafted cabin that, while not as upscale as some competitors, felt more refined than others in its class. The Encore GX offered three trim levels, each adding more features, with the Essence trim providing leather seating and unique chrome accents. The ST package further enhanced its sporty look with a distinctive grille and red accents.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured a 2.0-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 134 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and two electric motors. Its 8.8-kilowatt-hour battery allowed for an electric-only range of 17 miles, with a full charge taking five hours on a 120-volt outlet or two hours on a 240-volt station. Despite its hybrid nature, the Crosstrek Hybrid maintained Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive capability, offering 8.7 inches of ground clearance and rugged suspension. However, its acceleration was underwhelming, and the added weight from hybrid components affected handling. The EPA rated it at 90 MPGe, with a combined 35 mpg on gas.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX came standard with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. Our test model featured the optional 1.3-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque, with AWD available through a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the engine provided solid power, it felt underwhelming at low speeds. The Encore GX offered a smooth driving experience with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension. Its handling was composed at higher speeds, making it a confident choice for cornering.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid's interior layout was similar to the conventional model, with an electronic emergency brake replacing the handbrake. This allowed for side-by-side cupholders and more space for controls. The upright seating position provided a commanding view, and rear seat space was adequate even for taller passengers. However, the cargo area was reduced to 41 cubic feet due to the battery pack, compared to 55 cubic feet in the gas-powered version.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX offered increased rear seat and cargo space, with larger rear doors and improved legroom and headroom. It provided 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to 50.2 cubic feet with them folded. The rear load floor could be adjusted for more space, and the front seat layout allowed for additional storage. The Encore GX comfortably accommodated three full-size golf bags, showcasing its practicality.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system and an 8-inch touchscreen. It featured a user-friendly interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The multi-information display atop the dash provided useful data without complicating the driving experience.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX featured GM’s latest touchscreen infotainment system, offering a responsive and customizable interface. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Options like a wireless charging pad and head-up display added to its tech appeal, though the HUD's deployment was somewhat clunky.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid included standard safety features like airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. Subaru’s EyeSight suite added forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more, providing semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities.

The 2020 Buick Encore GX offered standard safety features such as forward-collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera system, enhancing its safety profile.