Standard safety features for the 2016 Buick Encore include antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front knee airbags, front and rear side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and a rearview camera. We think each of these is ultimately stronger than the Encore for more shoppers, but its inherent Buick-ness nevertheless maintains its appeal for those looking for a quiet and comfortable means of getting around with a dollop of luxury and an elevated driving position. Popular choices include the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3 and Fiat 500X. And if interior room isn't a problem, there's also an insurgence of new, similarly subcompact competitors for 2016 to consider, each of which can offer superior interior space, driving dynamics or style. Of course, many buyers may still be put off by the Encore's snug interior, including a noticeably cramped back seat and cargo room easily bested by larger crossovers such as the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5 or Buick's own Envision. Other strengths include impressive fuel economy numbers and top crash-test scores. No matter the trim, though, the Encore's small size makes for impressive maneuverability when it comes time to negotiate crowded streets or fit into a tight parking space. Unfortunately, the regular turbo 1.4-liter engine is still used on the remaining Encore trim levels. It's a welcome upgrade, which should make for livelier acceleration. New this year is the Sport Touring model with a version of the standard turbocharged 1.4-liter engine that puts out an additional 15 horsepower and 29 pound-feet of torque. Indeed, it manages to retain much of its essential Buick-ness by virtue of its hushed cabin with near-luxury trappings and a long list of available upscale features, including a heated steering wheel and a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. While it's certainly a radical departure from Buick's long history of building large luxury sedans, look a little closer and you'll find the 2016 Buick Encore subcompact SUV still embodies many of the elements this brand is known for.
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