2026 Kia Seltos LX vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred
$2,910 less and 2 mpg better vs 42 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,910 price gap, 147 vs 155 hp, 29 vs 27 MPG.
The Seltos LX leads on $2,910 less, 2 MPG better. The Encore GX Preferred leads on 42 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Kia Seltos LX | 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $24,990 | $27,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 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 | 3,186 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 103.5" | 102.0" |
| Length | 172.6" | 171.2" |
| Width | 70.9" | 71.4" |
| Height | 63.6" | 64.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Kia Seltos LX and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX starts at $24,990, $2,910 less than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at $27,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $51/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,910 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Seltos LX 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 prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Kia Seltos LX or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Kia Seltos LX or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred produces 155 hp, 8 more than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX at 147 hp. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred also leads in torque at 174 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2026 Kia Seltos LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Kia Seltos LX bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX is 1.4″ longer at 172.6″ vs 171.2″. The 2026 Kia Seltos LX has a 1.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Kia Seltos comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Buick Encore GX offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Kia trims, Kia Seltos trims, Buick trims, Buick Encore GX trims
How the Seltos and Encore GX Stack Up
Two subcompact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Kia Seltos LX ($24,990) and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred ($27,900) solve similar problems in different ways. The $2,910 gap adds up to $51/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: Seltos vs Encore GX
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 8 hp difference (155 vs 147) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred adds 42 more lb-ft of torque (174 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX saves roughly $108/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $540. The 2026 Kia Seltos LX wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX when you want to keep $2,910 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Seltos LX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment. At $51/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 Kia or Buick or any dealership.