Manufactured by Buick, the Encore is a subcompact crossover SUV that has been in production since 2012. The Encore comes with a standard five-door SUV body. Only Buick’s fourth SUV to be unveiled, the Encore is also the brand’s first subcompact crossover.
In 2019, Buick Encore sales reached an all-time high in the United States market. For the current 2022 Encore, there are two trim levels offered: Preferred and Preferred AWD. The 2022 Encore is equipped with a four-cylinder turbocharged 1.4L engine that generates a horsepower of 155. Up to five people can be seated in two rows.
There are many great reasons that Buick Encore sales skyrocketed in 2019. However, there are just as many great alternatives to this subcompact crossover. Keep reading as we break down the best alternatives to the Buick Encore!
1. BMW X1
BMW’s 2021 X1 is the perfect example of a compact SUV that boasts ample cargo space. With a highly practical size and design, the 2021 X1 is available as both a front-wheel and all-wheel drive. With the BMW X1, you’ll be able to reach 60mph in less than 7 seconds with the all-wheel-drive model. There are two trim levels to choose from: sDrive28i and xDrive28i.
All X1 models, including the 2022 model, are equipped with 2.0L turbocharged engines that produce a horsepower of 228. The base model, the sDrive28i, has a combined city and highway MPG of 25.5. The 2021 X1 features 8.8-inch iDrive infotainment systems. For the X1, you’re looking at a price range between $36,000 and $39,000.
You can find more information here, on BMW’s official website.
2. Chevrolet Equinox
A stylish crossover for the whole family, the Chevrolet Equinox 2021 is a smart choice for those looking for a compact SUV. Chevrolet offers four different trim levels for the 2021 Equinox: L, LS, LT, and Premier. While front-wheel drive is standard, buyers have the choice of upgrading to an all-wheel-drive system. The Equinox features a turbocharged 1.5L engine with 170 horsepower.
With the all-wheel-drive Equinox, the combined city and highway MPG will be 28. The Equinox’s roomy interior will be comfortable for passengers in the front and rear seats. All models are equipped with a 7- or 8-inch MyLink infotainment system. The price for the 2021 Equinox ranges between $25,000 and $33,000.
You can find more information here, on Chevrolet’s official website.
3. Chevrolet Trailblazer
If you’re looking for a striking subcompact crossover, look no further than Chevrolet’s 2021 Trailblazer. Potential buyers have a choice between four different trim levels: LS, LT, Activ, and RS. Buyers can choose between a turbocharged three-cylinder 1.2L engine with 137 horsepower or a turbocharged three-cylinder 1.3L engine with 155 horsepower.
The 2021 Trailblazer can comfortably seat up to five people in the interior cabin. This crossover is available as a front-wheel and all-wheel drive. With the 2021 Trailblazer, buyers are looking at a combined highway MPG between 28 and 31. The price will range between $22,000 and $27,000.
You can find more information here, on Chevrolet’s official website.
4. Chevrolet Trax
Compared to the Chevy Trailblazer discussed above, the 2021 Chevrolet Trax is a more entry-level compact SUV. All 2021 Trax models are equipped with four-cylinder turbocharged 1.4L engines. Potential buyers can choose from two different trim options, namely the LS and LT. This SUV is available as a front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
With a cabin that prioritizes spaciousness, the Trax can comfortably seat up to five adults. The 2021 Trax models have a combined MPG of 28.5. Regardless of the selected trim, all 2021 Trax models feature a 7-inch infotainment system. For this compact SUV, you’re looking at a price between $22,000 and $25,000.
You can find more information here, on Chevrolet’s official website.
5. Fiat 500X
Fiat’s new 500X subcompact SUV features the brand’s unique style and an engine with great performance capabilities. Fiat 500X models in 2021 are all equipped with turbocharged four-cylinder engines and offer all-wheel drive as standard. 177 horsepower is offered by the Fiat 500X with a 1.3L engine. You can expect a combined highway and city MPG of 27 with the 2021 500X.
Up to five people can be seated comfortably in this subcompact SUV from Fiat. You have the option of choosing between four different trim levels: Pop, Trekking, Sport, and Trekking Plus. Families may find the cargo space to be too limited for their needs. You can expect to pay between $26,000 and $32,000 for the 2021 500X.
You can find more information here, on Fiat’s official website.
6. Ford Escape
The Ford Escape 2021 SUV is a compact SUV that can handle anything you throw at it, on or off-road! Four different powertrain options are available for buyers of the 2021 Escape, including hybrid models. The 2021 Escape is available in ten different trim levels and is available as both a front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
According to Ford, the combined city and highway MPGs range between 26 and 30 for the 2021 Escape models, depending on the trim level. Its sleek cabin can seat five people across two rows. Ford’s latest infotainment system, Sync 3, comes standard on most Escape models. For Ford’s 2021 Escape, prospective customers can expect to pay between $26,000 and $41,000.
You can find more information here, on Ford’s official website.
7. GMC Terrain
If you want an equally stylish and compact crossover SUV, the GMC Terrain might be the perfect option for you! Four trim level options are available for the 2021 GMC Terrain: SL, SLE, SLT, and Denali. You can choose between two four-cylinder engines: a 1.5L engine and a 2.0L turbocharged engine. GMC Terrains are available with an all-wheel drive.
Terrain models with turbocharged engines boast a combined MPG of 27.5. Up to five people can comfortably sit in the cabin of the 2021 Terrain. In addition to other technology, the Terrain even comes standard with a Wi-Fi hotspot onboard! Prices for the 2021 GMC Terrain range from $26,000 to $37,000.
You can find more information here, on GMC’s official website.
8. Honda HR-V
Among its current SUV lineup, Honda’s 2021 HR-V is a compact SUV that will appeal to both practical and style-conscious buyers. Depending on your needs and preferences, there are four trim levels to choose from: LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring. You can choose between a front-wheel-drive and an all-wheel-drive HR-V. The engine is a four-cylinder model.
You can expect a combined MPG between 28 and 30, depending on the trim you decide to get. It has a classically designed interior that can accommodate up to five adults comfortably. It is possible to fold the rear seats to increase cargo space. Prices range from $22,000 to $31,000 for the 2021 HR-V.
You can find more information here, on Honda’s official website.
9. Hyundai Kona
Hyundai’s 2021 Kona is a fantastic choice for those looking to purchase a subcompact SUV! You will have the option of choosing between a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine or a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. With its front-wheel-drive system, the Konda possesses impressive maneuverability.
It’s estimated that you can get an MPG of up to 35, depending on which trim is selected. Designed to provide maximum comfort, the 2021 Kona can seat up to five people. This subcompact SUV will cost between $22,000 and $30,000.
You can find more information here, on Hyundai’s official website.
10. Hyundai Venue
A subcompact crossover with an assortment of great features, the 2021 Hyundai Venue is a great (and affordable) option! There are three trim levels offered for the 2021 lineup: SE, SEL, and Denim. All current Venue models utilize four-cylinder engines that produce 121 horsepower. All models come standard as front-wheel drives.
The 2021 Venue has a combined city and highway MPG of 31.5. Despite its compact design, the Venue can comfortably seat up to five people in the surprisingly spacious cabin. All models come equipped with a powerful 8-inch infotainment system. Depending on the selected trim, the 2021 Venue will range between $19,000 and $24,000 in price.
You can find more information here, on Hyundai’s official website.
11. Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee 2021 is a compact crossover SUV that truly showcases Jeep’s dedication to its craft. A 2.4L four-cylinder engine is standard on the 2021 Cherokee. There are also turbocharged four-cylinder 2.4L and 3.2L engines to choose from! In total, there are nine different trim levels to choose from.
The 2021 Cherokee model with the best city-highway fuel efficiency averages 27 MPG. A four-wheel-drive version of the Cherokee is available. As many as seven people can travel in the cabin of the 2021 Cherokee, depending on the trim level chosen. All-terrain capability is also a hallmark of this Jeep crossover! The price will range between $28,000 and $39,000.
You can find more information here, on Jeep’s official website.
12. Jeep Compass
The 2021 Compass from Jeep is a compact crossover that’s ready to go wherever you take it! For the 2021 lineup, there are seven trim levels available: Sport, Latitude, Freedom, Altitude, 80th Special Edition, Limited, and Trailhawk. The 2021 Compass is fitted with a four-cylinder engine and is available as both a front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
Jeep estimates that the 2021 Compass will have a combined MPG of 26.5. With an equally comfortable and practical interior cabin, up to five people can be seated in this crossover. All trim levels are equipped with Jeep’s brilliant Uconnect infotainment system. Depending on the selected trim level, the price of the 2021 Compass will range between $26,000 and $33,000.
You can find more information here, on Jeep’s official website.
13. Jeep Renegade
When it comes down to subcompact crossovers, Jeep’s 2021 Renegade is a vehicle that stands out. There are a total of nine trims to choose from: Sport, Jeepster, Latitude, Upland Edition, Freedom Edition, 80th Anniversary Edition, Islander, Limited, and Trailhawk. Buyers can opt for the standard 2.4L engine or the turbocharged four-cylinder 1.3L engine.
The 2021 Renegade lineup is available as front-wheel or all-wheel drives. Depending on your selected trim level, the Renegade will have a combined MPG between 26 and 28. With unique interior styling from Jeep, this subcompact crossover can comfortably seat up to five adults. Potential buyers are looking at a price range of $24,000 to $32,000.
You can find more information here, on Jeep’s official website.
14. Kia Seltos
With an already impressive SUV lineup, the 2021 Seltos from Kia is a fantastic compact SUV. The 2021 Seltos lineup features four trim levels: S, LX, EX, and SX. There are two different engines to choose from. You could go for the four-cylinder 2.0L engine with 146 horsepower. You could also go for the turbocharged 1.6L engine that has 175 horsepower.
The 2021 Seltos is available as a front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Depending on the engine you decide to get, you’re looking at a combined MPG between 33 and 34. There is room for up to five passengers in this beautifully designed cabin. All trim levels come standard with a touchscreen infotainment system. The price will range between $23,000 and $29,000.
You can find more information here, on Kia’s official website.
15. Kia Soul
With its sleek design and modern functionality, the Kia Soul is a great subcompact crossover. Kia made six different trim levels available for its 2022 Soul lineup: LX, S, X-Line, GT-Line, EX, and Turbo. 147 horsepower is available from the base model’s four-cylinder 2.0L engine. 201 horsepower is available from a four-cylinder turbocharged 1.6L engine in the top trim level.
A front-wheel-drive is standard on the 2022 Soul. Furthermore, potential buyers can expect a combined MPG of 31. It is possible to seat a maximum of five people within the spacious cabin. All trim levels come standard with touchscreen infotainment systems. For this subcompact crossover from Kia, you’re looking at a price range of $20,000 to $29,000.
You can find more information here, on Kia’s official website.
16. Kia Sportage
Kia’s 2021 Sportage is a great option for those looking for a sleek and compact crossover SUV. The current Sportage lineup is available with a variety of turbocharged engines. A total of four trims are available: LX, S, EX, and SX Turbo. You can choose from a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The combined city/highway MPG for the 2021 Sportage will range between 21 and 27, depending on the engine chosen. This vehicle comfortably seats five passengers in a stylishly functional interior cabin. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard with all trim levels. The price range for the 2021 Sportage is $25,000 to $35,000.
You can find more information here, on Kia’s official website.
17. Lexus NX
If you’re looking for a compact yet luxurious SUV, look no further than Lexus’ 2021 NX. There are five trim levels for buyers to choose from: NX300, NX300 F Sport, NX300h, NX300 Luxury, NX300h Luxury. The base 2021 NX model is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0L engine that boasts 235 horsepower. You also have the choice between a front wheel and an all-wheel-drive system!
Depending on the trim level you select, the 2021 NX will have a combined city and highway MPG between 30 and 34. With a luxuriously comfortable interior cabin, this compact SUV can seat up to five people. Interested buyers are looking at a price range between $38,000 and $48,000.
You can find more information here, on Lexus’ official website.
18. MINI Cooper Clubman
While the 2021 Clubman may look like your average MINI Cooper, it’s a surprisingly spacious crossover SUV. There are two trim levels: Cooper S Clubman and Cooper S Clubman All4. Essentially, the vehicle is available as a front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Both trim levels feature a four-cylinder turbocharged 2.0L engine with 189 horsepower.
With MINI Cooper’s signature design, this stylish crossover can seat up to five people. The cargo space is also more than generous considering the compactness of this vehicle. Both trim levels offer Bluetooth connectivity. Interested buyers are looking at a price ranging between $30,000 and $34,000.
You can find more information here, on MINI Cooper’s official website.
19. MINI Cooper Countryman
Like the Clubman discussed above, the 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman is essentially a larger version of their classic cars. For the 2021 Countryman, there are four trim levels offered: Cooper Countryman Oxford Edition, Cooper Countryman, Cooper S Countryman, and Cooper S E Countryman. The base trim level features a 134-horsepower turbocharged engine.
The Countryman, which is available as a front-wheel or all-wheel drive, can seat up to five people. Depending on the selected trim level, the Countryman will have a combined MPG between 27 and 30. All 2021 Countryman models will be equipped with a 6.5-inch or 8.8-inch infotainment system. For this compact crossover, you’re looking at a price range of $27,000 to $43,000.
You can find more information here, on MINI Cooper’s official website.
20. Mazda CX-30
Mazda’s 2021 CX-3 is one of its smallest SUVs – but don’t let that fool you. There are two trims available for this subcompact SUV: Sport and Sport AWD. The four-cylinder engine has a horsepower rating of 146. Depending on your preference, the car comes with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
You can get an average combined city/highway MPG between 29.5 and 31.5, depending on the trim you select. There’s more than enough room to seat five people in the modern and stylish cabin. By folding down the rear seats, you can increase the cargo capacity. For the Mazda 2021 CX-3, you’ll be looking at a price range between $21,000 and $24,000.
You can find more information here, on Mazda’s official website.
21. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Despite its compact size, the 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is stocked with all of the tech features you’d expect from a modern crossover. This model series from Mitsubishi is available in six different trims: S, ES, LE, SE, Black Edition, and GT. Potential buyers have two powertrain choices: a 4-cylinder 2.0L engine with 148 horsepower and a 2.4L engine with 168 horsepower.
Your combined city and highway MPG will be between 26 to 27, depending on the trim level you decide to go with. The 2021 Outlander Sport’s interior features a cabin with a simple design that can accommodate up to seven people in three rows. Pricing ranges from $22,000 to $28,000 for this subcompact crossover from Mitsubishi.
You can find more information here, on Mitsubishi’s official website.
22. Nissan Kicks
With its stylish and practical appeal, the 2021 Nissan Kicks is a fantastic compact SUV. Three trim levels are available for Nissan’s 2021 Kicks range: S, SV, and SR. Each 2021 Nissan Kicks comes equipped with a 4-cylinder engine that generates a horsepower of 122 horsepower. The 2021 Kicks models come standard as all-wheel drives.
In terms of the combined city and highway MPG, the Nissan Kicks has a combined MPG of 33.5. The 2021 Nissan Kicks has a spacious interior that can accommodate up to five adults in two rows. With an easy-to-use infotainment system, this SUV offers great value for money. Prices will range between $20,000 and $24,000 for the 2021 Nissan Kicks.
You can find more information here, on Nissan’s official website.
23. Subaru Forester
With Subaru’s 2021 Forester, you’ll get both versatility and compactness from your SUV. A standard feature of the Forester is its all-wheel-drive system. Customers can choose from five different trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring. No matter which of the trims you select, the 2021 Forster comes with a 182 horsepower, four-cylinder 2.5L engine.
An interior cabin that emphasizes functionality allows this compact SUV to comfortably seat up to five people in two rows. For those who like to seek adventures, the Forester’s intuitive infotainment system will always guide you back home. Prices for the 2021 Subaru Forester will range between $25,000 and $36,000, depending on the selected trim.
You can find more information here, on Subaru’s official website.
24. Subaru Outback
Subaru combines the best parts of a station wagon with the classic hallmarks of an SUV with their 2021 Outback. A total of eight trim levels are available: Base, Premium, Limited, Onyx Edition XT, Wilderness, Touring, Limited XT, and Touring XT. There are two powertrains available. If you want more power, you can choose the turbocharged 2.4L engine with 260 horsepower. Alternatively, you can go for the 2.5L engine with a horsepower of 182.
No matter your choice of engine, the 2021 Subaru Outback comes standard as an all-wheel drive. A non-turbocharged Outback will offer a combined MPG of 29.5, while the turbocharged models offer a combined MPG of 26.5. The 2021 Outback has a high-quality interior cabin that can accommodate up to five people in two rows. There is a price range of $28,000 to $41,000 for this crossover.
You can find more information here, on Subaru’s official website.
25. Volkswagen Taos
Volkswagen’s 2022 Taos is an affordable compact SUV. Taos 2022 models are available in S, SE, and SEL trim levels. Horsepower of 158 is generated by the Taos’ four-cylinder 1.5L turbocharged engine. Potential buyers have the option of purchasing the Taos as a front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
Based on Volkswagen’s estimates, the 2022 Taos will achieve a combined MPG of 32 in the city and highway. This compact SUV features Volkswagen’s trademark design style. The 2022 Taos has a spacious cabin that can accommodate up to five people. Interested buyers expect to pay between $24,000 and $33,000, depending on the selected trim.
You can find more information here, on Volkswagen’s official website.
Sources:
Honda Automobiles: HR-V
BMW USA: X1
Chevrolet: Equinox
Chevrolet: Trailblazer
Chevrolet: Trax
Fiat USA: 500X
Ford: Escape
GMC: SLE-SLT
Hyundai USA: Kona
Hyundai USA: Venue
Jeep: Cherokee
Jeep: Compass
Jeep: Renegade
Kia: Seltos
Kia: Soul
Kia: Sportage
Lexus: NX
Mazda USA: 2021 CX-3
Mini USA: Clubman
Mini USA: Countryman
Mitsubishi Cars: Outlander Sport 2021
Nissan USA: Kicks
Subaru: Forester
Subaru: Outback
Volkswagen: Taos
