2026 Chevrolet Trax LS vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred
$6,300 less and 2 mpg better vs AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $6,300 price gap, 137 vs 155 hp, 29 vs 27 MPG.
The Trax LS leads on $6,300 less, 2 MPG better. The Encore GX Preferred leads on AWD. 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 | 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS | 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $21,600 | $27,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 137 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 162 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,983 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.0" | 102.0" |
| Length | 178.6" | 171.2" |
| Width | 71.8" | 71.4" |
| Height | 61.4" | 64.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS starts at $21,600, $6,300 less than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at $27,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $111/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,300 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred produces 155 hp, 18 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS at 137 hp. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred also leads in torque at 174 lb-ft vs 162 lb-ft. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS runs a 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS, AWD on the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred.
Is the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS is 7.4″ longer at 178.6″ vs 171.2″. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS has a 4.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred comes with AWD, while the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Trax trims, Buick trims, Buick Encore GX trims
How the Trax and Encore GX Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS ($21,600) and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred ($27,900) solve similar problems in different ways. The $6,300 gap adds up to $111/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Trax vs Encore GX
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS runs a 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 18 hp difference (155 vs 137) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred comes with AWD; the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS saves roughly $108/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $540. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS when you want to keep $6,300 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LS covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. At $111/month more, the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Chevrolet or Buick or any dealership.