Is the 2024 Buick Encore GX a BETTER luxury SUV than a Mazda CX-30?

The Encore GX is getting a few changes from Buick. On the outside you will discover the new taken right from the Wildcat concept car and new color. On the inside there is a full leather interior and all new infotainment and digital display screens. Under the hood is a 1.3L turbocharged inline-3 mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. Is the 2024 Buick Encore GX a BETTER luxury SUV than a Mazda CX-30?
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videography: Steven Flood 🎥

[@lauriestull1077]

Well, my dad would freak out. That all he got was buicks. Before he died he gave me a buick. I don't remember what it was. But it had low low miles. I fixed it up.I drove it for 10 years. He's probably looking down and freaking out. He knows I will be getting one and this. Color.

[@shajack34]

I actually own this car!!! I’m 25 and thought it looked cool and needed a car during law school. I love this thing

[@RaitisRides]

That is really great to hear! Thanks for sharing your experience

[@davealmer3803]

At least you can buy a replacement engine at Lowe s right where they keep the riding lawnmowers.

[@Ohv111]

Lol good one

[@stavroslask1292]

Well said!

[@djplonghead5403]

Lawnmowers have a CVT too.

[@Anon_Tsking]

Nothing is more satisfying than starting your day with the dose from raiti

[@RaitisRides]

That is really awesome of you to say! Thanks!

[@bentlyist]

Great review! My wife and I bought an Encore ST a few months ago and we absolutely love it! The engine is surprisingly peppy and the 9 speed transmission is buttery smooth. I've never been asked about a car I drive more than this one. (my wife also loves the straight forward radio and climate controls)

[@tomdrummy4984]

Buick is doing a much better job at styling lately. I like the envista 👍

[@stavroslask1292]

Buick is almost bankrupt from the shit they CANT sell. Your comment is of a 4th grader

[@davidp2888]

Saturday morning with Joe? Yes, please and thank you!

[@RaitisRides]

I’m glad I can brighten the start of your day.

[@christopherh4307]

I test drove this vehicle last week. My only zonk is the driver info display is too close to the steering wheel, I much prefer the traditional recessed display. I was pleasantly surprised by the powertrain for such a small engine

[@omarcortes5754]

I like it for city driving, the mpg's are great but I don't like that engine for the highway.

[@BrianHeffernan-qz4xd]

It's good to see Buick updating their lineup. By the way, I love black licorice.

[@koven1497]

The exterior changes grow on you. Looks exceptionally well on the Envision. I personally wouldn’t go for the Encore, but it’s a better deal to go for the Envision with the Cad specs. If you want a smaller SUV, you’d have better luck with a Toyota or Mazda, I agree.

[@wildforthecats661]

Turbo charged 3 cylinder? Asking for trouble.

[@RaitisRides]

You do know they have been running those for years in Europe

[@lauriestull1077]

And I love to follow you. I love all your videos and tips on cars. And. SUV. 👍 It's been about a year since I follow you Thank you

[@wildforthecats661]

@@RaitisRides IMO, no turbo for any engine under a 2.0L.

[@stavroslask1292]

@@RaitisRidesthis isn’t Europe. I live in Europe 2 months out of the year. They drive nice and slow because gas is veryyyyyyy expensive. In Greece it’s $2 a liter!!!! And that’s untenable tiny cars with tiny engines and remember JOE they’re ALL manual so they have a burst of speed

[@navoo9009]

@@RaitisRides and there have been *problems* with them for #years...

[@michaelvau4818]

The fact that you keep putting up great videos at your lightning pace is just amazing.😊

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for taking the time to say that Michael!

[@shopwithaaron]

Rear seat lounger came with "91 mazda 626 gt. And sweeping front vents! Discovered that on our own! Thanks!

[@user-zx4kq7ep4m]

King of all auto reviewers!! Joe is the best by far. ❤

[@Marklevit1998]

Hey joe this buick encore this is awesome suv

[@RaitisRides]

Thank Mark for taking the time to say that!

[@stavroslask1292]

You are mentally challenged if you believe this is a “awesome” SUV

[@ronkruger390]

Like what Buick is doing. I'm picking up my Envision avenir in two weeks.

[@irvingcordova1085]

I'm not into GM products but your reviews are always fun to watch

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

Yes of course Joe and I buy this as my daily.

[@mickeybrumfield764]

I like the way Joe notices things that others don't. Joe noticed the way the hood formations just disappeared as you got up to the windshield. I'm impressed that the motorcycle sized engine in this car can go 120 mph. Not so big on licorice flavored candy, but I have had the Italian licorice flavored liqueur Sambuca, and I really enjoyed that. 😊

[@RussP-cj1do]

In 2021, I decided to lease my first Buick Encore GX, and it has been a fantastic experience. As my lease approaches its end in August, I'm seriously considering buying this same model in the identical color. One of the standout features of the new Encore GX is the innovative blind spot warning lights on both sides, which have provided an extra layer of safety and awareness on the road. Additionally, the futuristic information center inside the car has been a delight to use, providing me with all the key details and controls in a clear and intuitive manner. I can't wait to continue enjoying all the great features of this car.

[@LopezZeta]

Your comment looks like AI, and EVERY company has blindspot warning lights and infotainment centers. You couldn't name one thing unique to Buick? Lmao

[@suzanneflowers2230]

Although it's not up to Buick's traditionally high luxury standard, it's still a nice car for the money. Wish it had a trusty 4 cyl, though.

[@digitaldoc100]

Keeping my CX30.

[@mikejames-drummerreginacan1386]

1) that small engine should be just fine with this Buick's light weight. 2) I would prefer Front Wheel Drive with a real transmission not CVT 3) the price is amazing for all you get. I'm sure the Mazda and BMW are more money. BUICK for me. THANKS Joe.

[@charliewilliams1474]

The front end looks like a 2020 Ford Escape.😢

[@ramennoodlz]

Honestly changing the name to remove GX would’ve been fine and differentiate the ‘23 from the ‘24 Encore GX model, overall pretty decent package, bummed out by no dual zone climate control but not sure if that’s standard in this segment, great review nonetheless

[@JayMartel24]

The first time i seen one on the road it was White and i seen a logo on the back looked like Metal Stripes Thought the back of the SUV was nice looking didn't know it was a Buick until I walked down my street and was walking looking at the GM & Buick Models then i seen the back of the Buick i said to my daughter that was the same back as the one i seen the other day They also had a couple years old Buick with the Logo Badge then the New Badge i like it looks European from the Back. Still I would rather see Pontiac any day over Buick What a Small Engine looks the same size as a Honda Fit Engine Looks Hot & Humid there I am saying to myself How did you come from being a Teacher to a Cool You Tuber for Cars what a change what does your former Students think about you now also former teachers You are saying is this better than a Mazda . well for me I loved the Mazda back in the late 80's right up to 2015 then the rest went whack I love the White Shade in that Buick at least it's not Black Licorice I like the Cherry or Strawberry not the black Also i notice they have Dodge Neon's Mexico and Ford Mondeo i think China so why not USA & CANADA very odd not everyone wants a Truck or Suv . Myself i would love a Jeep or a Car Great Video

[@chundram]

I have the 2022 GX Preferred in Grey, I wish mine was an ST and had that same infotainment as this one The way it turns on and off I understand it was to conserve gas,I love my truck. This is a great luxury vehicle..

[@bettyspears9723]

I bought the 2024 Encore Avenir, have had computer problems from day one. I'm ready to trade it in😢

[@ZachD-lh5so]

Raiti is daddi 😂😂😂 just kidding love the videos

[@RaitisRides]

You are hilarious Zach! Thanks for tuning in!

[@althewhite9756]

I bought a leftover 2023 ST in January and very happy with it so far except gas millage, a bit more thirsty than expected.

[@mrgurulittle7000]

Mazda CX30 is always going to be the better class leader, but this Buick Encore is very nice inside and out.

[@franzalaska9512]

Agreed. Why would anyone pay $33k and gamble with an unproven 1.3 150hp lawn mower engine when you can get a highly reliable 2.5 191hp in the Mazda CX-30 for about the same?

[@mrgurulittle7000]

@@franzalaska9512Yep, agree. The engine is the sore spot for this Buick. My second grudge is the fact it’s made in Korea. A Buick from Korea is the most inappropriate thing since maple syrup on steak.

[@jerryuma]

Excellent video. I remember the #2 meal. I would always order it super sized. I eat more healthy these days thankfully.

[@android-ud2nf]

Doesn’t Hondas larger 1.5 turbo and cvt combo in the crv get well above 30mpg highway. This throw away engine is honestly depressing….. AND IN A LUXURY CAR CALLED BUICK???? Gm messed up.

[@user-zl7qs1xh2n]

Nice video keep up the good work Joe

[@magnoliap5824]

I’m going to zonk that twig I see when you’re showing the engine! 😂

[@lauriestull1077]

🧡🧡🧡🧡 I love this oh my god. I want it so bad.

[@RaitisRides]

I’m so glad you like this one Laurie!

[@Lowend_Chug]

Dig the black liquorice Joe! Good times😂

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

Amazing review Joe.

[@Ohv111]

New buick badge reminds me of the monster logo

[@geddon436]

How many miles until the 3 cylinnder engine needs to be replaced?

[@J-ZIM]

love the paint color. Don't like the small engine. Not sure why they didn't at least go with a 4 cyl. Don't like the chrome mixed with the flat black and gloss black in the front. Rear antenna needs to go and be replaced with the shark fin. Would have been nice if it had real exhaust pipes/openings

[@BretFrohwein]

how do you think the ride quality and noise compares with the Envista?

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

Love your car video

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for always being there no matter what!

[@manuelcamomot5152]

Looks alright.

[@stavroslask1292]

You’re obviously Ray Charles

[@bryce3081]

My opinion Joe ima go with no on this one vs cx30

[@robmorrison2442]

The cladding on the CX 30 is horrific..

[@bryce3081]

@@robmorrison2442 fair opinion on appearance. I'm talking the total overall. Outside, inside, features to price, maintenance, insurance etc. Joe does a great job reviewing vehicles and features and there is NOTHING I want to take away from that. My view on reviews is just different.

[@user-tg9mz1ut1g]

Pretty sure this particular Encore does not have AWD ..no badging on the lift gate ...so this would have a CVT ...

[@dominickirkwood]

I love my buick envision st better real true and Joe and Lori and Steve keep up the good work real true and I love the video 👍

[@CarpetLayer]

28 mpg is crap

[@Bowhunters6go8xz6x]

The reason American style cars sell so well in Asia is because the Chinese don't even want to drive their cars, I saw one and it had a riding lawnmower engine in it and the doors didn't have rubber door seals and you could see light through the gaps.

[@suzanneflowers2230]

I read that 80% of Buicks were sold in China. Glad about this for the brand to continue.

[@SteveChapman1204]

I think they are trying to distinguish the Buick brand "sport" model from the Chevy and Cadillac all black accents.

[@frankthecat]

American? I thought Buicks were made in China now 🤔

[@wardellward]

That color is off the chain but the flat black I’m not feeling it

[@lancej.8120]

Can you please review the 2024 buick envision?

[@RaitisRides]

Will do Lance!

[@burntvirtue]

A 3 cylinder for an SUV?! What is this a lawnmower?

[@stavroslask1292]

It’s a Chinese engineered engine. Remember Buick & GM sell more in China than in the USA

[@janisianjusino9961]

@@stavroslask1292Actually this is built in South Korea, not China

[@stavroslask1292]

@@janisianjusino9961 same 💩

[@alanb3213]

​@stavroslask1292 It's a European designed engine with input from GM worldwide like pretty much every car company does

[@traveller924]

My wife likes design very much, if not lawnmower motor which doesn't make any sense, probably would get it.

[@mitchellc2723]

Neither of these are luxury.

[@RaitisRides]

That is what some say, but Buick & Mazda disagree with you.

[@mitchellc2723]

@@RaitisRides Well, Tesla tries to convince people that recycled LEGOs autos are luxury too.

[@joypeaceandhappiness1501]

​@mitchellc2723 😂😂😂. Most vehicles poised as luxury aren't. They are economy plus. This would easily include Buick,Mazda, BMW, Lexus etc. While they might be premium none of them are anywhere near true luxury like Bentley or Rolls Royce

[@user-lf3we7jk7x]

i dont think they're actually suv's more like a glorified stationwagon that dont look like the ilder stationwagons.

[@re14437]

Nice vehicle, but I’ll take the Turbo CX-30

[@johnknight6853]

So not even in the same class as the Mazda CX-30 base Mazda has well over 180 HP and a Turbo is available to give you 225 plus. The Mazda has Heads Up Display, Power Lift-gate, Rear seat A/C vents etc etc etc. Sorry just because Buick says luxury it’s clearly not anywhere near. Joey yocall the Mazda near luxury and this luxury. If this is luxury Mazda is building exotics. Just keeping it real.

[@deathstar8072]

Gotta say that really looks cheesy in the interior no wonder foreign cars are much more appealing. Something tells me this is going to be a bust.

[@mylesroettger5397]

What burns me about Buick is that in the most expensive trim package, the Avenir, they drop all but the basic colors! Shouldn't the most expensive model have more color choices and not less? Wake up Buick.

[@RaitisRides]

That is very strange that they did that!

[@AG-fv4wd]

Im confused. Isn't the new one the 2025.

[@djplonghead5403]

No, my 1956 Buick does not have a backup camera like that. My old Cadillac has 5 times as many cylinders as this.

[@RaitisRides]

This is very true! They just don't make them how they used to!

[@EazybakeEvan]

i feel like you gotta be a real sucker to buy this over the japanese competition. you probably have to be a boomer or some kinda buick homer who doesn't know better. no offense haha.

[@cornerofthemoon]

Nice styling but Buick might as well use a hamster wheel to power the thing.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Wow...Buick really went down the drain. A three popper lawnmower engine from Harbor freight...lol.

[@gaius_marius]

Manual A/C controls and no rear vents. Seems cheap for a Buick.

[@diamondknight4815]

Mazda cx30 ❤

[@RaitisRides]

Good call!

[@keithkornatoski9162]

as relates to this GX ... whatever you ask about this ... simply answer "NO" ...let's practice ... is it the best SUV ever? "NO" ... is it on the list "NO" ... is a 3 cylinder a viable alternative "NO" ... can it tow anything besides a RADIO FLYER wagon? "NO" ...would I buy one "NO" ... am i yawning ? "YES"

[@fibonaccisequence2891]

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is much better option, at least have traditional 1.5 four cylinder engine with turbo and all components are very nicely positioned in order to make repairs or do the services, Buick on other hand have that " wet belt" that can be problematic in future.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your insight and perspective!

[@Ohv111]

Why such a tiny engine?

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

It represents the owner's wallet.

[@Ohv111]

@bigmacdaddy1234 good point

[@bryy2053]

Looks like an elderly person's car impersonating a "sporty" vehicle with some budget thrown in the mix. Nice try, smart to focus on amazing cameras for those aging eyes like we all have, but underwhelming. Nothing here says, "wow, that stands out from the crowd." Just....NPC with a graphics upgrade. Its a shame given where Buick used to be. Dodge is out of the muscle car game, so how much would it cost to bring back a regal gsx or grand national package based on the dead camaro platform? What do I know except if they executed it well it would give the company that edge theyre aming for. Going after the Germans and Japanese? This doesn't cut it.

[@kdomster9141]

Tiny engine with turbo make it way worst design choice to Mazda and steering that is feather light and over assisted is not my cup of tea. Styling with split headlamps also not as clean and as elegant as Mazda's . Than comes beefy 2.5t with 320lbs torque paired with iAWD for little over 30K make it a great deal . So this GM design is a good try , big plus is in lack of cheap and cheesy CVT ! But CX30 is much better choice

[@RaitisRides]

I know it is not for everyone.

[@kdomster9141]

@@RaitisRides i like it more than HRV, Corolla Cross, Kia and Hyundai and other CVT plagued vehicles

[@jimmydeneus5322]

🤎🤎

[@alengreen589]

the CX30 is

[@Raider19582]

Buick building vehicles in China 🇨🇳 now. I would never have one.

[@rickjames6867]

I will have to zonk the entire car. Sorry Buick.

[@gangatalishis]

I would get this over the cx-30.

[@jeffmorse645]

I'd take the CX-30 in a heartbeat. Much better car. Anyone at Buick who think is competing with a BMW is delusional. It's a Chevy Trailblazer with slightly nicer trim and sound insulation from GM Korea. In fact the only Buick I'd consider is the Envista. It's cheap and not pretending to be something it's not.

[@sebaztionabsolution]

meh... nothin cohesive bout this gatbage can.🙃🙃

[@jamesquick412]

You need a stadium full of psycho therapists if you're considering BUYING this vehicle. Built in south korea with a 3 cylinder engine also made in south korea mated to a cvt transmission made in mexico!?!? That combination is a disaster waiting to happen. These things will be burning oil and possibly blowing head gaskets before you know it! Lease it, yes, and let it be GM's problem - there certainly will be plenty of them

[@RaitisRides]

LOL That is so awesome to hear!

[@wsaut]

28 mpg's on the highway ? I get that and more with my 6 cylinder Lexus and it certainly doesn't strain like a 3 cylinder. No thank you

[@CS_1989]

3cyl?!?! = NO smh

[@navoo9009]

*lawnmower* behind *26k$* #massacre... #sorento *32k$*