2017 Buick Encore Overview: Specs, Trims, Reliability, and Used Buying Guide

The 2017 Buick Encore is a subcompact luxury crossover SUV that received a comprehensive mid-cycle refresh, introducing updated exterior styling, a modernized interior with refined infotainment, and enhanced driver-assistance features. Combining easy maneuverability, standard turbocharged power, and QuietTuning sound insulation, the 2017 model year remains an attractive entry point into the premium subcompact segment.

What Was New for the 2017 Buick Encore?

The 2017 model year represented a key turning point for the first-generation Buick Encore (produced from 2013 through 2022). Buick executed a significant mid-cycle refresh designed to elevate the vehicle's aesthetic appeal and tech capabilities, directly addressing customer feedback regarding interior ergonomics and exterior styling.

On the exterior, the 2017 Encore discarded the waterfall grille in favor of Buick's contemporary winged grille design anchored by the classic tri-shield logo. Up front, restyled headlights featured available LED daytime running lights, complementing reshaped front fenders and a revised bumper lower valance. The rear end gained updated taillights with available LED accents and redesigned exterior mirrors.

Inside, the cabin underwent a drastic overhaul. The original top-mounted display screen and button-heavy center console were replaced with a streamlined dashboard architecture featuring an integrated 8-inch color touchscreen. Keyless Open and Push-Button Start became standard equipment across all trim levels, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration were added as standard features through the updated Buick IntelliLink system.

Engine Options, Performance, and Fuel Economy

Buick offered two distinct 1.4-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engines for the 2017 Encore. Both engines paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission, with buyer choice between standard Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

Base 1.4L Turbo Engine (LUV)

The standard powertrain on most trims is a 1.4-liter turbocharged DOHC 4-cylinder engine generating 138 horsepower at 4,900 RPM and 148 lb-ft of torque between 1,850 and 4,900 RPM. This engine provides adequate low-end torque for city driving and traffic commuting, though highway passing maneuvers require strategic timing due to its modest top-end power output.

Direct-Injected 1.4L Turbo Engine with Start/Stop (LE2)

Available on select trims—such as the Sport Touring, Preferred II, Essence, and Premium—was an upgraded 1.4-liter Direct-Injection Turbocharged engine. This power unit delivers 153 horsepower at 5,600 RPM and 177 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 4,000 RPM. In addition to providing an extra 15 horsepower and 29 lb-ft of torque, this engine incorporates auto start/stop technology, which temporarily shuts off the engine when stopped at traffic lights to reduce fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions.

Fuel Economy Comparison

Note: Real-world mileage varies based on driving habits, weather conditions, tire pressure, and vehicle maintenance history.

Interior Design, Comfort, and Technology

Despite its compact exterior footprint, the 2017 Buick Encore's cabin prioritizes occupant comfort and luxury-oriented refinement. High seating positions provide standard SUV-style visibility without the cumbersome bulk of a full-size vehicle.

• BUICK ENCORE Cabin Floorplan
  • FRONT ROW
    • High Seating
    • Fold-Flat Seat
  • REAR ROW
    • 60/40 Split Rear Bench
  • CARGO CAPACITY
    • 18.8 cu ft Rear
    • 48.4 cu ft Folded

QuietTuning Technology

Buick's signature QuietTuning system is standard on the 2017 Encore. This noise-mitigation package includes active noise cancellation technology (which emits opposing sound waves through the audio speakers to counteract engine drone), triple door seals, acoustic-laminated windshield glass, and dense sound-deadening insulation within the engine compartment and cabin floorboard. The result is a remarkably quiet interior at highway speeds compared to main market rivals.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The central feature of the redesigned interior is an 8-inch high-resolution Buick IntelliLink touchscreen. Key technological inclusions comprise:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Seamless integration of smartphone navigation, music streaming, hands-free calling, and messaging applications.
• OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot: Built-in hardware capable of connecting up to seven mobile devices simultaneously ( subscription required).
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Audio streaming and voice-command capabilities.
• Driver Information Center: A 4.2-inch color display located in the instrument cluster providing real-time trip data, fuel economy metrics, tire pressure readings, and audio info.

Cargo Capacity and Seating Versatility

The 2017 Encore seats up to five passengers, though four adults will find the overall cabin width most comfortable for long-distance trips.

• Cargo Space Behind Rear Seats: 18.8 cubic feet
• Cargo Space Rear Seats Folded: 48.4 cubic feet
• Fold-Flat Front Passenger Seat: A standard feature on all trims allows the front passenger seat back to fold completely flat forward. This feature enables long items—such as 8-foot ladders, rugs, or surfboards—to extend from the rear hatch up to the dashboard while maintaining the trunk door closed.

2017 Buick Encore Trim Level Breakdown

Buick structured the 2017 Encore across six detailed trim levels to serve budget-conscious buyers and luxury shoppers alike.

1. Base / Preferred: Entry-level essentials, 138-hp engine, cloth
2. Sport Touring: Sporty body accents, rear spoiler, 18" wheels
3. Preferred II: Dual-zone climate, Remote Start, blind spot
4. Essence: Leather seating, heated front seats, LED lamps
5. Premium: Bose audio, park assist, lane departure warning

1. Base (1SV)

The entry trim level includes 18-inch aluminum wheels, heated power side mirrors, Keyless Open, Push-Button Start, a 6-way power driver seat, cloth upholstery with leatherette accents, an 8-inch IntelliLink touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, a six-speaker sound system, and a rearview camera.

2. Preferred

Building upon the base model, the Preferred trim adds a rear cargo cover and floor mats. Critically, the Preferred trim unlocked access to additional option packages and color choices that were unavailable on the base model.

3. Sport Touring

The Sport Touring trim gives the vehicle a sportier appearance by adding unique 18-inch midnight silver aluminum wheels, a rear-decklid spoiler, body-color door handles, and fog lamps. On many models, it also introduced the option for the upgraded 153-horsepower direct-injected engine.

4. Preferred II

Stepping up to the Preferred II introduces convenience features, including dual-zone automatic climate control, a 120-volt household-style power outlet, remote vehicle starter system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Side Blind Zone Alert, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

5. Essence

The Essence trim moves the Encore clearly into luxury territory. It upgrades the seating surfaces to full perforated leather, adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a 6-way power front passenger seat, driver-seat memory settings, and full LED headlights with dynamic auto-leveling.

6. Premium

The range-topping Premium trim includes all features from the Essence while adding a 7-speaker Bose premium sound system, Front and Rear Park Assist, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Safety Ratings and Driver-Assistance Technologies

Safety is a primary purchasing consideration in the subcompact crossover market. The 2017 Buick Encore performed admirably in crash tests conducted by major safety organizations.

Crash Test Performance

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): Awarded the 2017 Encore an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, earning top marks in frontal crash, side crash, and rollover risk evaluations.
• Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): Earned highest ratings of "Good" in most crashworthiness evaluations, including moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength, and head restraints.

Driver-Assistance Features

Depending on the selected trim level, the 2017 Encore can be equipped with advanced active safety equipment:

• Side Blind Zone Alert: Warns drivers of vehicles in their blind spots using radar sensors located on the rear bumper.
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Detects approaching cross-traffic when backing out of parking spaces or driveways.
• Forward Collision Alert: Monitors the distance to the vehicle ahead and provides visual and audible alerts if an impending collision is detected.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alert system that notifies drivers if they unintentionally drift out of a detected travel lane without signaling.
• Front and Rear Park Assist: Uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects near the front or rear bumpers when maneuvering at low speeds.

Used Market Assessment: Reliability, Maintenance, and Common Issues

For drivers looking at the 2017 Buick Encore on the pre-owned market, evaluating long-term reliability and typical maintenance considerations is crucial.

Reliability Profile

The 2017 model year benefits from several years of platform engineering updates, making it generally more reliable than early 2013-2015 production models. However, like any used vehicle, specific mechanical components require inspection prior to purchase.

Common Mechanical Issues to Watch For

1. Coolant Leaks (Water Outlet & Thermostat Housing)

A common issue reported across General Motors' 1.4-liter turbo engines involves the plastic water outlet housing and thermostat housing. Over time, heat cycles cause the plastic components to crack or deform, leading to slow coolant leaks.

• Symptom: Low coolant warnings, sweet smell after driving, visual puddle under the engine bay.
• Solution: Replacing the factory plastic water outlet with a reinforced aftermarket or OEM assembly.

2. PCV System and Valve Cover Failures

The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system on the 1.4L LUV engine incorporates a check valve inside the intake manifold. If this check valve fails, excessive pressure forces oil past internal engine seals and can ruin the rubber diaphragm inside the engine valve cover.

• Symptom: High-pitched whistling sound coming from under the hood, engine code P0171 (system lean), visible oil seepage around the valve cover gasket.
• Solution: Replacement of the valve cover assembly and, in severe cases, the intake manifold assembly to restore proper crankcase pressure balance.

3. Turbocharger Underboost Codes (P0299)

The turbocharger wastegate actuator arm can experience physical wear over extended miles, preventing the wastegate door from sealing tightly. This can cause the engine controller to trigger diagnostic code P0299.

• Symptom: Sluggish acceleration, illumination of the Check Engine Light, loss of highway passing power.
• Solution: Adjusting or replacing the wastegate actuator assembly, or replacing the complete turbocharger unit if internal cracks are present.

4. Oil Cooler Gasket Leaks

The engine oil cooler mounted to the engine block utilizes rubber seals that harden over time due to high operating temperatures.

• Symptom: Oil drips originating near the front-center of the engine or oil contamination in the cooling system.
• Solution: Replacing internal oil cooler O-rings and gaskets.

Pros and Cons Summary

When evaluating the 2017 Buick Encore, contrasting its standout strengths against its practical limitations provides a balanced perspective.

Pros

• Maneuverability: Compact exterior dimensions and a tight turning radius make city parking and tight traffic effortless.
• Cabin Quietness: Buick QuietTuning with active noise cancellation yields a refined, quiet cabin environment superior to most non-luxury subcompact rivals.
• Modern Infotainment: Redesigned 2017 dash includes standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
• Seating Flexibility: Standard fold-flat front passenger seat dramatically improves interior utility for carrying long items.
• Strong Safety Ratings: 5-Star overall rating from NHTSA provides crash-protection peace of mind.

Cons

• Base Power Limitations: The standard 138-hp engine feels strained under full load or during steep mountain climbing.
• Tight Rear Seat Width: While rear legroom is adequate for its class, hip-room and shoulder-room can feel cramped with three adults seated in the back.
• Modest Cargo Volume: Offers less maximum cargo capacity than key class rivals like the Honda HR-V or Subaru Crosstrek.
• Sub-Par Rear Visibility: Wide rear roof pillars can block over-the-shoulder sightlines, making the blind-spot monitoring system a highly desirable option.

Technical Specifications Matrix

For quick reference, the fundamental technical specifications for the 2017 Buick Encore are detailed below:

Buying Advice: How to Choose the Right 2017 Buick Encore

When shopping for a pre-owned 2017 Buick Encore, follow these practical buyer steps to secure a reliable, high-value vehicle:

1. Target Preferred II, Essence, or Premium Trims: These trim levels include key safety features such as Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, as well as automatic climate control and upgraded upholstery.
2. Prioritize the 153-HP Direct-Injected Engine: If highway driving or mountain passes are part of your routine, look for models equipped with the optional 153-hp LE2 engine (often found on Sport Touring, Preferred II, Essence, and Premium trims). The additional 29 lb-ft of torque makes a noticeable difference in daily drivability while improving fuel efficiency.
3. Conduct a Thorough Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): Have a certified technician check for cooling system leaks (water outlet and thermostat), PCV valve functionality, and valve cover gasket condition.
4. Verify Infotainment Operation: Test the 8-inch touchscreen for responsive touch inputs and connect your smartphone via USB to verify Apple CarPlay or Android Auto functionality.
5. Inspect the Service History: Check the maintenance history to verify regular 5,000-to-7,500-mile synthetic oil changes. Turbocharged engines are sensitive to thermal breakdown of engine oil, making consistent oil maintenance essential for turbocharger longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2017 Buick Encore considered a reliable vehicle?

Yes, the 2017 Buick Encore generally earns solid reliability scores within the subcompact SUV class, benefiting from platform refinements introduced over its production cycle. Potential buyers should inspect for common 1.4-liter engine maintenance items, including PCV valve covers, cooling outlet housings, and turbocharger wastegate function.

Does the 2017 Buick Encore support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes. Thanks to the interior refresh introduced for the 2017 model year, every 2017 Buick Encore comes equipped with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability via the 8-inch IntelliLink touchscreen system.

What is the difference between the Preferred and Essence trim levels?

The Preferred trim is a budget-friendly mid-tier trim offering cloth seating, standard 18-inch wheels, and core infotainment features. The Essence trim is a high-level luxury package that adds full perforated leather upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, and driver-seat memory settings.

Is All-Wheel Drive available on all 2017 Buick Encore trims?

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was available as an option across all trims except the base trim (1SV), which was offered exclusively in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD).

How much cargo space does the 2017 Buick Encore offer?

The 2017 Encore provides 18.8 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the rear 60/40 split seats. Folding the rear seats flat increases total storage capacity to 48.4 cubic feet. Additionally, the standard fold-flat front passenger seat back allows owners to carry long items that span almost the entire length of the cabin interior.

Final Recommendation

The 2017 Buick Encore represents one of the most compelling model years for GM's subcompact crossover. Its mid-cycle interior refresh fixed the button-cluttered center stack of earlier models, replacing it with a user-friendly 8-inch touchscreen supporting standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For urban drivers, commuters, or small families seeking a quiet, maneuverable vehicle with premium amenities and safety credentials, a well-maintained 2017 Encore—particularly in Preferred II, Essence, or Premium trim with the upgraded direct-injected engine—remains a smart and budget-conscious pre-owned option.