Used 2021 Buick Encore GX for SaleNationwide
Shop with transparent pricing.
Only show listings that include dealer fees- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 137 hp 1.2L I3
- Exterior color:
- White Frost
- Combined gas mileage:
- 29 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony W/Ebony Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 16,618
- Stock #:
- GA2818
- VIN:
- KL4MMDS26MB094031

2021 Buick Encore GX
Select FWD
16,618 mi
$18,471
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 137 hp 1.2L I3
- Exterior color:
- White Frost Tricoat
- Combined gas mileage:
- 30 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony with Ebony interior accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 53,990
- Stock #:
- 995135A
- VIN:
- KL4MMBS24NB095135

-$476
2022 Buick Encore GX
Preferred FWD
53,990 mi
$18,403
$17,927
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 137 hp 1.2L I3
- Exterior color:
- Satin Steel Gray Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 29 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony With Ebony Interior Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 26,352
- Stock #:
- CL7667A
- VIN:
- KL4MMBS22MB176827

2021 Buick Encore GX
Preferred FWD
26,352 mi
$17,544
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 137 hp 1.2L I3
- Exterior color:
- Satin Steel Gray Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 29 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony With Ebony Interior Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 67,978
- Stock #:
- PB079279
- VIN:
- KL4MMBS25MB079279

2021 Buick Encore GX
Preferred FWD
67,978 mi
$15,379
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 150 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Satin Steel Gray Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 31 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Signet With Ebony Interior Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 69,521
- Stock #:
- P3791
- VIN:
- KL4MMFSL3LB109104

-$1,041
2020 Buick Encore GX
Essence FWD
69,521 mi
$17,345
$16,304
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 155 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Black (Ebony Twilight Metallic)
- Combined gas mileage:
- 27 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony)
- Transmission:
- 9-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 42,436
- Stock #:
- NB124822T
- VIN:
- KL4MMESL2NB124822

2022 Buick Encore GX
Select AWD
42,436 mi
$18,387
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 155 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Sapphire Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 30 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony With Ebony Interior Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 23,555
- Stock #:
- PH23084A
- VIN:
- KL4MMFSL9NB099455

2022 Buick Encore GX
Essence FWD
23,555 mi
$21,474
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 137 hp 1.2L I3
- Exterior color:
- Satin Steel Gray Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 29 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 23,702
- Stock #:
- MB180447
- VIN:
- KL4MMBS21MB180447

2021 Buick Encore GX
Preferred FWD
23,702 mi
$19,202
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 150 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Satin Steel Gray Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 27 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony With Ebony Interior Accents)
- Transmission:
- 9-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 83,005
- Stock #:
- H1334U-1
- VIN:
- KL4MMESL7LB125347

2020 Buick Encore GX
Select AWD
83,005 mi
$15,988
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 137 hp 1.2L I3
- Exterior color:
- Chili Red Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 28 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Whisper Beige With Ebony Interior Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 26,573
- Stock #:
- CL7635A
- VIN:
- KL4MMBS23LB099884

2020 Buick Encore GX
Preferred FWD
26,573 mi
$16,544
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 155 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Chili Red Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 27 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Whisper Beige With Ebony Interior Accents)
- Transmission:
- 9-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 29,784
- Stock #:
- LAMB130531
- VIN:
- KL4MMGSL7MB130531

2021 Buick Encore GX
Essence AWD
29,784 mi
$21,899
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 155 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Summit White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 30 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony With Ebony Interior Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 66,535
- Stock #:
- E268425P
- VIN:
- KL4MMFSLXNB062804

2022 Buick Encore GX
Essence FWD
66,535 mi
$20,246
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 150 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- White Frost
- Combined gas mileage:
- 31 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony W/Ebony Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 44,160
- Stock #:
- G424014A
- VIN:
- KL4MMDSL9LB103246

2020 Buick Encore GX
Select FWD
44,160 mi
$16,267
CarGurus Analysis:
2021 Buick Encore GX
With 1,103 currently listed for sale and an average price of $16,624, 32.8% of 2021 Buick Encore GXs for sale on CarGurus are rated as good or great deals.
Favorably reviewed: Owners rated the 2021 Buick Encore GX 5 / 5 stars and CarGurus experts gave it a 6.33 / 10.
78.2% of 2021 Encore GX models on CarGurus are accident free.
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 137 hp 1.2L I3
- Exterior color:
- White Frost Tricoat
- Combined gas mileage:
- 30 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony w/Ebony Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 44,575
- Stock #:
- TP97642
- VIN:
- KL4MMBS29NB097642

2022 Buick Encore GX
Preferred FWD
44,575 mi
$18,964
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 137 hp 1.2L I3
- Exterior color:
- Summit White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 29 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony W/Ebony Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 45,012
- Stock #:
- 9T053263
- VIN:
- KL4MMBS23MB053263

2021 Buick Encore GX
Preferred FWD
45,012 mi
$17,498
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 155 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Burnished Bronze Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 31 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Whisper Beige with Ebony interior accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 71,054
- Stock #:
- VP3534
- VIN:
- KL4MMFSL1MB106588

-$500
2021 Buick Encore GX
Essence FWD
71,054 mi
$16,122
$15,622
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 150 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 31 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 90,222
- Stock #:
- 104745
- VIN:
- KL4MMFSL5LB104745

2020 Buick Encore GX
Essence FWD
90,222 mi
$14,587
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 150 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Blue (Deep Azure Metallic)
- Combined gas mileage:
- 31 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony W/Ebony Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 87,335
- Stock #:
- 29020A
- VIN:
- KL4MMFSLXLB100626

2020 Buick Encore GX
Essence FWD
87,335 mi
$15,989
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 155 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Black (Ebony Twilight Metallic)
- Combined gas mileage:
- 27 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony W/Ebony Accents)
- Transmission:
- 9-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 66,162
- Stock #:
- I028378
- VIN:
- KL4MMESL0NB028378

2022 Buick Encore GX
Select AWD
66,162 mi
$18,151
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 155 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Satin Steel Gray Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 27 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony With Ebony Interior Accents)
- Transmission:
- 9-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 58,693
- Stock #:
- B26272A
- VIN:
- KL4MMGSL6MB175685

2021 Buick Encore GX
Essence AWD
58,693 mi
$19,112
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 155 hp 1.3L I3
- Exterior color:
- Chili Red Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 31 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony W/Ebony Accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 38,999
- Stock #:
- BG3756A
- VIN:
- KL4MMDSL6MB108082

-$854
2021 Buick Encore GX
Select FWD
38,999 mi
$19,000
$18,396
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 137 hp 1.2L I3
- Exterior color:
- Summit White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 29 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Ebony with Ebony interior accents)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 58,256
- Stock #:
- 60206A
- VIN:
- KL4MMDS23MB061200

-$2,000
2021 Buick Encore GX
Select FWD
58,256 mi
$15,411
$13,411
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Buick
- Model:
- Encore GX
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Exterior color:
- White
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 50,211
- Stock #:
- SSMB037663W
- VIN:
- KL4MMDSLXMB037663

-$668
2021 Buick Encore GX
Select FWD
50,211 mi
$16,708
$16,040
CarGurus Analysis: 2021 Buick Encore GX
overall

Summary
With 1,103 currently listed for sale and an average price of $16,624, 32.8% of 2021 Buick Encore GXs for sale on CarGurus are rated as good or great deals.
Favorably reviewed: Owners rated the 2021 Buick Encore GX 5 / 5 stars and CarGurus experts gave it a 6.33 / 10.
78.2% of 2021 Encore GX models on CarGurus are accident free.
Why it stands out
The 2021 Buick Encore GX stands out as a premium-leaning small crossover that is larger, more powerful, and better looking than the standard Encore. It also has a lower base price than the smaller and older Encore, which makes its positioning a little unusual. That combination gives it a distinctive place in the segment, even if the name itself adds to the confusion.
In everyday use, the Encore GX’s strengths are its fuel efficiency, easy-to-use technology, and quiet cabin. Those qualities make it appealing for buyers who want a refined-feeling small SUV without a complicated learning curve. At the same time, it is not without drawbacks: the ride quality is poor, performance is fairly pedestrian, and its value for money is also called into question.
Other model years to consider
- Average price: $22,212
- Good/great deal percentage: 34.7%
- User rating: 5 / 5
- Total listings: 3,494
- Average price: $22,846
- Good/great deal percentage: 37.4%
- Total listings: 2,626
- Average price: $21,157
- Good/great deal percentage: 34.4%
- User rating: 4.67 / 5
- Total listings: 3,164
This analysis is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 28, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
5.0 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Melissa M
Reviewed a 2021 Buick Encore GX on Jul 14, 2021
I’m in love with my 2021 Buick Encore GX. It’s so incredibly beautiful and I love all the features. The car looks like a high end vehicle without the high end prices. Great great vehicle
Lucy t
Reviewed a 2021 Buick Encore GX on Apr 30, 2021
Great Value! Cute - fun to drive! Lots of standard safety features! For an SUV this size - more standard features for less money than anything else I looked at. Definite BUY!
curtis h
Reviewed a 2021 Buick Encore GX on May 21, 2022
Love it! Love the features, the gas mileage, drivers assistance, sensors, and even the little features. I especially love the way the space is used. Even though its a compact SUV, it makes me feel like I have plenty of space!
Steve P
Reviewed a 2021 Buick Encore GX on Feb 27, 2023
Surprisingly good acceleration for a three (3) cylinder automobile and is comfortable to drive. I am very much enjoying the Encore GX
2021 Buick Encore GX Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| Preferred FWD | $24,200 |
| Select FWD | $25,800 |
| Essence AWD | $30,600 |
| Preferred AWD | $26,200 |
| Select AWD | $27,800 |
| Essence FWD | $28,600 |
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
2021 Buick Encore GX Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 2021 Buick Encore GX prices has changed over time.
See more price trends2021 Buick Encore GX Pricing Analysis
Pricing by Popular US Cities
Market Area: Nationwide
Key Insights
- Highest-Price Market: Philadelphia, PA leads with an average price of $17,018, indicating a premium market for the Encore GX.
- Best Value: Miami, FL offers the lowest average price at $11,273, presenting a significant opportunity for budget-conscious shoppers.
- Inventory Drives Stability: Philadelphia, PA has the most listings at 92, suggesting a robust supply that may help stabilize prices in that market.
City-Level Pricing
| City | Total Listings | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia, PA | 92 | $17,018 |
| Chicago, IL | 90 | $16,455 |
| New York, NY | 87 | $13,495 |
| Houston, TX | 85 | $15,492 |
| Washington, DC | 82 | $14,740 |
| Boston, MA | 79 | $16,691 |
| Dallas, TX | 75 | $14,158 |
| Atlanta, GA | 75 | $15,583 |
| Miami, FL | 55 | $11,273 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 47 | $14,277 |
Pricing by Trim Packages
Key Insights
- Volume Leader: The Preferred FWD trim has the highest inventory with 1,272 listings, indicating strong demand for this configuration.
- Premium Spread: The Essence AWD trim, priced at $30,600, shows a significant premium over the Preferred FWD, which is priced at $24,200, highlighting the value of additional features.
- Drivetrain Effect: All AWD trims command higher prices compared to their FWD counterparts, with the Select AWD priced at $27,800, reflecting consumer preference for all-wheel drive.
Trim-Level Details
| Trim | Listings | MSRP | Drivetrain | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preferred FWD | 1,272 | $24,200 | FWD | 1.2L 137 hp I3 |
| Preferred AWD | 823 | $26,200 | AWD | 1.3L 155 hp I3 |
| Select FWD | 714 | $25,800 | FWD | 1.2L 137 hp I3 |
| Select AWD | 368 | $27,800 | AWD | 1.3L 155 hp I3 |
| Essence AWD | 302 | $30,600 | AWD | 1.3L 155 hp I3 |
| Essence FWD | 268 | $28,600 | FWD | 1.2L 137 hp I3 |
Pricing Analysis by Model Year
Key Insights
- New-Car Premium: The 2026 model year has an average price of $25,541, which is 2.5% below its starting MSRP of $26,200, indicating a slight depreciation trend for new models.
- Depreciation Curve: The 2020 model year exhibits the steepest depreciation at -32.4%, suggesting that older models may offer better value for budget-conscious buyers.
- Best Value Sweet Spot: The 2021 model year shows an average price of $16,611, which is 31.4% below its starting MSRP of $24,200, making it an attractive option for shoppers seeking value.
Model Year Pricing
| Model Year | Starting MSRP | Avg Price | Avg Price vs Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $26,200 | $25,541 | -2.5% |
| 2025 | $25,940 | $23,414 | -9.7% |
| 2024 | $25,600 | $22,562 | -11.9% |
| 2023 | $25,900 | $21,108 | -18.5% |
| 2022 | $24,400 | $19,272 | -21.0% |
| 2021 | $24,200 | $16,611 | -31.4% |
| 2020 | $24,100 | $16,287 | -32.4% |
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 30, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
How much does the 2021 Buick Encore GX cost?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Current Average Price | $16,620 |
| Year-Round Low | $16,620 |
| Year-Round High | $18,531 |
| Average Price a Year Ago | $18,532 |
| Change vs. Last Year | −10.32% |
Prices have softened 10.32% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.
There are 1,114 listings available, which gives you a solid amount of inventory to compare.
Is the 2021 Buick Encore GX a good car?
Yes — the 2021 Buick Encore GX earns a 5/5 user rating and a 6.33/10 expert rating. The standout strength is Technology at 9/10.
Owners consistently praise its stylish design, great features, and spacious interior, and they also point to the abundance of standard safety features as a value add. The overview also frames it as a refined-feeling small crossover with easy-to-use technology and a quiet cabin, which fits the positive owner feedback well.
The trade-offs are clear: the ride quality is poor, performance is fairly pedestrian, and value for money is questioned. Even so, if you want a premium-leaning small SUV that is easy to live with and simple to operate, this model year fits that brief. Good and great deals account for 33.3% of listings, so there are still some attractive opportunities in the market.
Is the 2021 Buick Encore GX reliable?
Owners rate it 5/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.
The owner summary points to a vehicle that many drivers find stylish, feature-rich, and satisfying over time, with the kind of everyday appeal that can support confidence in ownership. It also highlights concerns about brake issues reported by one driver, which is worth keeping in mind when you evaluate a used example.
The expert notes that the turbocharged engine helps the Encore GX feel sprightly, and it has no trouble cruising at highway speeds. Buick also includes useful ownership aids such as Teen Driver technology and Tire Fill Alert, which can make day-to-day use easier.
For used buyers, the main long-term risk is making sure the brakes and overall condition check out before you commit.
What should I look for when buying a used 2021 Buick Encore GX?
Accident-free inventory is solid at 78.2% — always verify the vehicle history report.
You should still run a history report on any candidate, because a clean listing percentage does not replace a vehicle-specific record. Prioritize a pre-purchase inspection that focuses on brakes, ride quality, and any signs of uneven wear or neglected maintenance. It also makes sense to test the infotainment and driver-assistance features carefully, since this model leans heavily on technology for its appeal.
Key things to evaluate:
- Trim level: The Encore GX comes in base Preferred, mid-grade Select, and top-shelf Essence trim levels. The base trim is the one most likely to leave you wanting more, while the higher trims better match the SUV’s premium-leaning positioning.
- Powertrain: Two turbocharged three-cylinder engines are available. The 1.2-liter engine is paired only with FWD, while the 1.3-liter engine is available with FWD or AWD and brings stronger output.
- Safety package: Buick Driver Confidence is standard and includes forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is optional on Preferred and standard on Select and Essence.
- Infotainment: The system uses an 8-inch touchscreen and adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for 2021. It also includes Bluetooth for two devices, Buick Connected Services with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and available navigation and surround-view camera features on better-equipped versions.
- Fuel efficiency: The 1.2-liter engine is the efficiency-oriented choice, while the 1.3-liter turbo is the stronger option. The review also notes an average of 28.2 mpg on its testing loop.
Which 2021 Buick Encore GX trim should I buy?
The 2021 Buick Encore GX is offered in 3 trim levels: Preferred, Select, Essence.
Here's the short version:
- Preferred: This is the entry point, but it is also the trim where blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is only optional. If you want the lowest starting point, this is it, but it is the least complete version.
- Select: This is the best-value trim for most shoppers because it adds more equipment balance and makes blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert standard. It also opens the door to the stronger 1.3-liter engine with FWD.
- Essence: This is the most upscale choice and the one that best matches the Encore GX’s premium intent. It is the trim to target if you want the richest feature set and the most polished feel.
Buick Driver Confidence is standard across the lineup, while blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert becomes standard starting with Select.
Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 Buick Encore GX?
This is a moderate market for selective buyers, with enough inventory to shop carefully and enough deal activity to find value.
- Deal availability: 33.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- Inventory: There are 1,114 listings available.
- Price trend: Prices have softened 10.32% compared with last year.
- Clean inventory: 78.2% of listings are accident-free.
If you find a listing below $16,620, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.
What is the 2021 Buick Encore GX's resale value?
The current average of $16,620 sits slightly below last year's $18,532.
That decline suggests the market has already adjusted downward, which can help you buy at a more favorable point in the cycle. If you plan to sell later, the softer pricing trend means you should be realistic about depreciation and focus on buying well rather than assuming a quick rebound.
The model’s strong owner satisfaction can help support demand, especially among shoppers who value its technology and upscale feel. Well-kept examples with clean history and desirable equipment should be easier to move than neglected ones.
Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 5/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.
Is the 2021 Buick Encore GX safe?
The 2021 Buick Encore GX earns a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
It earns a 7/10 safety score from our experts.
Buick Driver Confidence is standard, with forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is optional on Preferred and standard on Select and Essence, so trim choice matters if you want the full safety package.
The expert review also notes that adaptive cruise control can be finicky in traffic, and lane-keeping assist feels unnatural even though it works. That means the safety tech is broad, but you should still test it carefully on a used example.
Should I buy a 2021 Buick Encore GX or consider a different year?
If you're weighing the 2021 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:
Choose the 2021 if:
- 33.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- Accident-free inventory is solid at 78.2% — always verify the vehicle history report.
- Price trend: Prices have softened 10.32% compared with last year.
- Owners rate it 5/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.
- It adds wireless smartphone integration and keeps the model’s refined, tech-forward character.
Consider the 2020 if:
- At $16,013, the 2020 costs less than the current year's $16,620 average.
- It offers more space and more powerful engines than the Encore.
Consider the 2022 if:
- At $19,306, the 2022 costs more than the current year's $16,620 average.
- It is a carryover with four new exterior paint colors.
The bottom line: The 2021 is the sweet spot if you want the updated tech and strong owner satisfaction without paying 2022 money. If your priority is saving as much as possible, the 2020 is the cheaper path, but the 2021 is the better all-around buy when you can find a clean, well-priced example.
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 29, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
Relevant articles

2026 Buick Encore GX Pricing, Specs, and Release Date
One of two small crossover SUVs from Buick with a three-cylinder engine, the Encore GX offers all-wheel drive and sees only minor changes for 2026.

The 10 Most Reliable Car Brands in 2025
With daily lives as hectic as ever, few of us have the time or resources to deal with unexpected repairs. We consulted leading authorities to identify the most reliable car brands.

2025 Buick Encore GX Pricing, Specs, and Release Date
The Buick Encore GX gets new available colors inside and out and becomes flex-fuel-capable for the 2025 model year.