2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred
On paper, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S wins on $2,705 less, 2 MPG better, 36 more hp. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $2,705 price gap, 191 vs 155 hp, 29 vs 27 MPG.
The CX-30 2.5 S leads on $2,705 less, 2 MPG better, 36 more hp. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S | 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,195 | $27,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.7 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,419 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.4" | 102.0" |
| Length | 173.0" | 171.2" |
| Width | 70.7" | 71.4" |
| Height | 61.7" | 64.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S starts at $25,195, $2,705 less than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at $27,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $47/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,705 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/year less on fuel; the extra 36 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred is the stronger pick when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S produces 191 hp, 36 more than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at 155 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 174 lb-ft. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is 1.8″ longer at 173.0″ vs 171.2″. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S has a 2.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-30 trims, Buick trims, Buick Encore GX trims
How the CX-30 and Encore GX Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S ($25,195) and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred ($27,900) solve similar problems in different ways. The $2,705 gap is about $47/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: CX-30 vs Encore GX
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S has 36 more hp (191 vs 155), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S saves roughly $108/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $540. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S when you want to keep $2,705 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment. At $47/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Mazda or Buick or any dealership.