The 2018 Buick Encore and the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek are two vehicles within the same class that have many similarities and differences when placed side by side. The compact SUV class is one willed with convenience, style, and efficiency all combined in one perfectly balanced vehicle, and the 2018 Encore and 2018 Crosstrek are ideal examples of this well-rounded class. Comparing two vehicles is best done by seeing what they have in common and then what they don’t share in order to gauge the overall value and reliability they will bring to your life. So, let’s take a look at the many similarities and differences when we compare the 2018 Buick Encore vs 2018 Subaru Crosstrek.
Similarities
Design
Whether it’s a car, truck, or SUV, every car model offers its own unique design which makes it special and gives it a particular presence. For example, some vehicles come off as bold and sporty, while others come off as sleek and refined. This is especially true when it comes to SUVs. Surprisingly when it comes to the design of 2018 Buick Encore and the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, they are both very similar as far as compact SUV goes and are only about 10 inches apart in dimension. This body type similarity allows them both to handle smoothly and fit into even the more difficult spots. Basically, both of these truly embrace the vision of a truly ideal compact vehicle. Additionally, both models have the same seating arrangements for five adult passengers.
Performance
The 2018 Buick Encore and 2018 Subaru Crosstrek both have a fuel economy of 33 mpg highway. They also both come in FWD or AWD. Other than that, their engine, transmission, and handling options are all their own. They are not far apart in overall power though.
Safety
When safety is involved the 2018 Buick Encore, and 2018 Subaru Crosstrek both offer a hefty amount of features to keep you worry-free. The features these vehicles both offer standard include multiple ideally positioned airbags, adjustable shoulder belts, anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic stability systems, and daytime running lights. In addition to these, there are also a fair amount of detection features to keep your awareness at an all-time high such as rearview cameras and collision, blind spot, rear parking, rear cross-path, and lane departure warning systems. No matter which of these vehicles drivers choose, they can feel confident in the safety technology available on either the 2018 Buick Encore or the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek as they both received a safety rating of 5 stars overall.
Differences
Price
The starting price for the 2018 Buick Encore is an affordable $22,990 and $21,795 for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek. This price point is for the basic trim level and standard features. The Buick Encore does offer more in standard features and an automatic transmission at this price point though.
Design
Although their body types are similar in general, the 2018 Buick Encore and 2018 Subaru Crosstrek do give off a different presence when you encounter them in person. The 2018 Encore is more sleek and refined and will make you feel as if you are driving something entirely special, while the 2018 Crosstrek has a bit more everyday flair that gives the impression of a loyal friend who is willing to get down and dirty for you.
With design also comes capacity. Both of these vehicles may be able to fit five adults, but there is a difference in the cargo space available. The difference in cargo space is less than 10 cu. inches with the 2018 Encore containing 48.4 ft³ and the 2018 Crosstrek containing 55.3 ft³. This space is used well and every inch of these models is used efficiently.
Performance
The 2018 Buick Encore comes standard with a 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that contains 138 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque. When it comes to fuel economy, it is one of the best in its class at 33 mpg highway and start-stop technology so that you can save fuel when you are at a stop light. You can also invest in the 1.4L direct-port injection turbo engine that increases the performance to 153 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek doesn’t fall far behind the 2018 Encore though with its 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that generates 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque.
That being said the 2018 Crosstrek does come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, while the 2018 Encore comes with Front-Wheel Drive. Additionally, both do well with handling on the road, but the 2018 Encore comes standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 2018 Crosstrek offers with a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT or Continuously Variable Transmission.
Features
When it comes to the 2018 Buick Encore and the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, there are a number of features that either one or the other offers.
The features that the 2018 Buick Encore includes standard that the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek does not are keyless start, leather-wrapped wheel, heated mirror, illuminated vanity mirrors, satellite radio, 4G LTE WiFi, hands free communication system, driver power seat with lumbar support, split bench seating, automatic transmission, and a turbocharged engine.
The features that the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek includes that the 2018 Buick Encore does not are a rear spoiler, auto-off headlights, trip computer, remote trunk release, variable speed wipers, electrochromic rearview mirror, second-row bench seating, and all-wheel drive.
Despite all the similarities and differences, both the 2018 Buick Encore and the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek are excellent vehicles that aim to please any type of driver who is blessed enough to sit behind their wheel. The 2018 Buick Encore is the better of the two in power and features, while the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek holds its own in space. Choosing which of these options is best for you and your lifestyle is all a matter of looking at the facts.
