autoevolution
 

Facelifted Buick Encore Launched in China, Gets Red Alcantara Seats

Buick launched the significantly updated Encore subcompact crossover in China today. Prices remain almost the same as before, but the design is a huge step in the right direction.
Facelifted Buick Encore Launched in China, Gets Red Alcantara Seats 10 photos
Photo: Buick
2017 Buick Encore in China2017 Buick Encore in China2017 Buick Encore in China2017 Buick Encore in China2017 Buick Encore in China2017 Buick Encore in China2017 Buick Encore in China2017 Buick Encore in China2017 Buick Encore in China
The new design is borrowed from the Opel European division, which came up with a new family face while making the Mokka X. Everybody seems to agree that it's a big improvement, though not much has changed on the powertrain front.

The 2017 Buick Encore soldiers on in China with a 1.4-liter turbocharged to deliver precisely 103 kW or 140 PS, plus 200 Nm of twisting power. The only gearbox option available is a 6-speed automatic one. The Chinese model is also available with an "intelligent AWD system", which can switch between different driving modes in two-tenths of a second. The system continuously controls torque distribution, automatically varying the front-to-rear torque split between 100% front and 50:50.

American models, meanwhile, are fitted with a newer direct-injected unit that makes 153 hp.

To be honest, we know exactly what the Buick Encore facelift looks like because it made its debut three months ago in New York. -We could have easily brushed the story off, but one particular detail jumped out at us.

As you can see in the photo above, the seats have got black bolsters and some snazzy new red centers. The manufacturer says that's Alcantara, but it looks more like velour to our eyes. Updates continue inside the crossover, where we see new trim, refreshed instrument gauges and the major highlight, an 8-inch UntelliLink system. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as OnStar 4G LTE with onboard Wi-Fi.

Tchnologies such as cruise control, keyless entry, push-button start and remote engine start (RES) are complemented by the OnStar full-time online assistant.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Mihnea Radu
Mihnea Radu profile photo

Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories