It’s the fight of the year…well, sort of. If you’ve been shopping around for a smaller SUV, we’re sure you’ve debated the 2018 Buick Encore vs. 2018 Toyota RAV4. Fortunately for you, we’re here to help!
Below, we’ve compared these two models head-to-head to see which of the nameplates is superior. We looked at three specific attributes to provide you with some guidance before you make a purchase. Spoiler alert: the luxurious 2018 Buick Encore obviously comes out on top…
Drivability
2018 Buick Encore
Sure, the 2018 Buick Encore may leave a bit to be desired when it comes to power. However, engineers designed the SUV with a number of features that are intended to improve drivability. While the performance specs may be a bit underwhelming, these other inclusions help give the nameplate an edge over any competitors.
For starters, the 1.4-liter turbo engine manages to crank out an impressive 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. While these numbers may be a bit lower than expected, they’re still high enough to help you keep up with your fellow drivers on the highway. However, this system truly makes a name for itself due to its impressive efficiency numbers. Primarily, drivers can anticipate a 25-mile-per-gallon city fuel efficiency, and this number is boosted to 33-miles-per-gallon on the highway. These impressive numbers can be directly attributed to several fuel-saving technologies, including the Stop/Start technology and the Direct Fuel-Injection.
As we mentioned, the other mechanical inclusions play a significant role in providing drivers with the best possible driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system promises optimal traction, regardless of the road conditions. Meanwhile, the StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System will allow drivers to have a secure handling of their SUV at all times.
2018 Toyota RAV4
Similar to the Buick Encore, the 2018 Toyota RAV4 tries to entice customers with an array of mechanical features. However, unlike the Buick Encore, these various amenities don’t do a whole lot to improve the overall driving experience.
Sure, the nameplate should be commended for having a relatively powerful engine. The vehicle is equipped with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder DOHC 16-valve engine, which manages to crank out 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. While these numbers are barely superior to the numbers produced by the Buick Encore, the RAV4’s efficiency numbers are vastly inferior. Drivers can ultimately expect a 23-mile-per-gallon fuel economy in the city and a 30-mile-per-gallon efficiency on the highway.
Toyota will try to get you to buy in on the paddle shifters, the ordinary suspension, and the Dynamic Torque Control. Don’t be fooled; none of these features are anything to write home about.
Technology
2018 Buick Encore
The Encore is classified as a luxury vehicle, so it shouldn’t be all that surprising that the vehicle is equipped with a number of noteworthy technological amenities. However, we’re sure you’ll still be impressed by how much the nameplate truly has to offer.
The Buick Infotainment System is the true star of the interior, providing drivers and passengers with a number of useful applications. The SiriusXM Satellite Radio will allow drivers to jam out to their favorite music, while the built-in Navigation system will guide them to any destination. The system even allows drivers to connect their phone to the system thanks to the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Thanks to these inclusions, drivers can easily make phone calls or send texts.
The technology doesn’t end there. The vehicle also contains a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, providing a strong wireless internet connection to up to seven devices. Thanks to this inclusion, if you or your passengers are ever required to complete work while you’re on the road, you won’t have to make a quick pitstop for an internet connection.
2018 Toyota RAV4
The 2018 Toyota RAV4 really can’t do much to keep up with the technological achievements of the 2018 Buick Encore. Yes, the vehicle is equipped with an infotainment system, providing drivers with quick and easy access to an assortment of applications.
But, yea, that’s pretty much it. There’s no smartphone compatibility and no hotspot. So if you’re really looking for an exciting, engaging driving experience, you’re probably better off looking towards the Buick Encore.
Safety
2018 Buick Encore
One of the most important aspects of a new vehicle is the safety capabilities. Fortunately, you won’t have to worry about a thing if you’re driving around in the 2018 Buick Encore. After all, the vehicle is equipped with a number of notable safety functions, earning the nameplate a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2017.
Many of these features will be invaluable when you’re on the highway, as they should help you avoid devastating collisions. The Forward Collision Alert will notify you when you’re approaching an object at too great of a speed, while the Side Blind Zone Alert will let you know if someone is about to drive up beside you. The accompanying Lane Departure Warning is just as helpful, as the system lets you know when it’s safe or unsafe to switch lanes.
If you do find yourself in an accident, you can turn to the OnStar Automatic Crash Response system. This technology will immediately connect the driver with an OnStar Advisor, who will subsequently send emergency personnel to the spot of the crash.
2018 Toyota RAV4
While we’ve seemingly criticized the 2018 Toyota RAV4 throughout the article, the SUV does do an admirable job of keeping their occupants protected. All of the safety features fall under the Toyota Safety Sense P technologies, a grouping of amenities that are as trustworthy as you can get. As part of this grouping of features, drivers can expect
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Automatic High Beams
The vehicle is also equipped with a number of standard safety functions, as well. This list includes the Blind Spot Monitor, the Rear-Cross Traffic Alert, Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology.
