Hey guys! Are you in the market for a compact SUV that blends luxury, comfort, and practicality? Then you've probably heard about the 2022 Buick Encore Essence. In this article, we're going to dive deep into the Buick Encore Essence of 2022, exploring its features, performance, and overall value. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or a first-time buyer, we've got you covered. So buckle up, and let's get started!

Overview of the 2022 Buick Encore Essence

The 2022 Buick Encore Essence is the top-tier trim level of the Buick Encore, a subcompact SUV known for its nimble handling and upscale interior. It's designed to offer a more premium experience compared to the base Encore, with added features and enhanced styling. The Essence trim aims to provide a blend of luxury and practicality, making it an appealing option for those who want a small SUV without sacrificing comfort and convenience. Buick has positioned the Encore Essence to compete with other premium subcompact SUVs, like the Mazda CX-30 and the Lexus UX. This model year boasts several enhancements, making it a strong contender in its class.

The exterior of the 2022 Encore Essence exudes a sophisticated charm. The sleek lines, signature Buick grille, and stylish alloy wheels give it a premium look. The Essence trim also includes features like LED headlights and taillights, enhancing both visibility and aesthetics. The compact size makes it perfect for navigating city streets, while the elevated ride height provides a commanding view of the road. The attention to detail in the exterior design reflects Buick's commitment to blending elegance with functionality.

Inside, the Encore Essence offers a comfortable and refined cabin. The leather-appointed seats provide excellent support, and the interior trim materials feel upscale. The cabin is surprisingly spacious for a subcompact SUV, offering ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with user-friendly controls and a well-integrated infotainment system. The Essence trim includes features like dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a premium audio system, adding to the overall luxury feel.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2022 Buick Encore Essence is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 155 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate power for city driving and highway cruising. While it might not be the most powerful engine in its class, it offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The turbocharger helps deliver a responsive feel, making the Encore Essence enjoyable to drive in various conditions.

The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and efficiently. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available for those who need extra traction in adverse weather conditions. The Encore Essence's compact size and well-tuned suspension contribute to its nimble handling. It's easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the steering is precise and responsive. The ride quality is generally smooth, absorbing most bumps and road imperfections with ease. This makes the Encore Essence a comfortable choice for daily commutes and longer trips alike.

Fuel efficiency is another strong point for the 2022 Buick Encore Essence. The front-wheel-drive model achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for its class. The all-wheel-drive model's fuel economy is slightly lower but still respectable. The Encore Essence's fuel efficiency makes it an economical choice for drivers who want a premium SUV without the high fuel costs often associated with larger vehicles. The combination of performance and efficiency is one of the key reasons why the Encore Essence remains a popular choice.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2022 Buick Encore Essence, you'll immediately notice the upscale design and quality materials. The cabin is thoughtfully laid out, with a focus on comfort and convenience. The leather-appointed seats are supportive and comfortable, making long drives a pleasure. The front seats are particularly well-contoured, providing excellent lumbar support. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The overall ambiance of the interior is one of understated luxury.

Rear passengers will also appreciate the space and comfort offered by the Encore Essence. While it's a subcompact SUV, the rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom for adults. The rear seats can also be folded down to expand the cargo area, adding to the vehicle's versatility. The cabin is well-insulated, minimizing road and wind noise, creating a quiet and relaxing environment. The attention to detail in the interior design is evident in the stitching, trim, and overall fit and finish.

The infotainment system in the 2022 Encore Essence is user-friendly and packed with features. An 8-inch touchscreen display is the centerpiece, providing access to navigation, audio, and other vehicle settings. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. A premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound, enhancing the overall driving experience. The Encore Essence also includes features like a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing you and your passengers to stay connected on the go. The intuitive interface and comprehensive features make the infotainment system a standout aspect of the Encore Essence.

Technology and Features

The 2022 Buick Encore Essence is equipped with a range of technology features designed to enhance your driving experience. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is a highlight, offering intuitive controls and smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, allowing you to access your favorite apps, navigation, and music. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. A Wi-Fi hotspot is available, providing internet access for up to seven devices.

In terms of convenience, the Encore Essence includes features like keyless entry and start, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. Remote start is also available, allowing you to warm up or cool down the cabin before you get in. The cargo area is surprisingly spacious for a subcompact SUV, and the rear seats can be folded down to create even more room. These features make the Encore Essence a practical choice for daily use.

Safety is a top priority in the 2022 Buick Encore Essence. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including a rearview camera, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. These systems help you stay aware of your surroundings and can prevent accidents. Additional safety features, such as forward collision alert and lane departure warning, are available as options. The Encore Essence has earned good safety ratings in crash tests, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers. The combination of technology and safety features makes the Encore Essence a well-rounded and secure vehicle.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Buick Encore Essence

To give you a balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Buick Encore Essence. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision about whether this SUV is the right fit for you.

Pros:

• Upscale Interior: The Encore Essence boasts a premium cabin with high-quality materials and comfortable seating.
• User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is intuitive and packed with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Nimble Handling: Its compact size and responsive steering make it easy to maneuver in city traffic.
• Fuel Efficiency: The Encore Essence offers competitive fuel economy for its class.
• Safety Features: It comes standard with a range of advanced safety technologies.

Cons:

• Engine Performance: The 1.4-liter engine, while adequate, may feel underpowered for some drivers.
• Cargo Space: While decent, the cargo area is smaller compared to some competitors.
• Price: The Essence trim can be pricier than base models of other subcompact SUVs.
• Rear Seat Space: While adequate, taller passengers might find the rear seats a bit cramped on long trips.

By weighing these pros and cons, you can better assess whether the 2022 Buick Encore Essence meets your specific needs and preferences.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2022 Buick Encore Essence? Overall, it's a well-rounded subcompact SUV that offers a compelling blend of luxury, comfort, and practicality. The upscale interior, user-friendly technology, and nimble handling make it a standout choice in its class. While the engine performance might not be thrilling, it's adequate for most driving situations, and the fuel efficiency is a definite plus.

If you're looking for a small SUV that doesn't compromise on premium features, the Encore Essence is definitely worth considering. It's perfect for city dwellers who need a vehicle that's easy to park and maneuver, yet still offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The advanced safety features provide added peace of mind, and the available all-wheel drive makes it a capable choice for those who live in areas with challenging weather conditions.

However, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons against your individual needs. If cargo space and rear-seat room are top priorities, you might want to explore other options. But if you value luxury, technology, and a comfortable ride in a compact package, the 2022 Buick Encore Essence could be the perfect SUV for you. Don't forget to take it for a test drive to see how it feels on the road and whether it aligns with your driving preferences. Happy car hunting, guys!