2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred
On paper, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S wins on $1,925 less, 31 more hp. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $1,925 price gap, 186 vs 155 hp, 27 vs 27 MPG.
The CX-30 2.5 S leads on $1,925 less, 31 more hp. 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 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S | 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,975 | $27,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 186 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 | 24 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.7 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,395 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.4" | 102.0" |
| Length | 173.0" | 171.2" |
| Width | 70.7" | 71.4" |
| Height | 61.4" | 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 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S starts at $25,975, $1,925 less than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at $27,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $34/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,925 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs; the extra 31 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 the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
Both achieve 27 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S produces 186 hp, 31 more than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at 155 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 174 lb-ft. The 2026 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 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is 1.8″ longer at 173.0″ vs 171.2″. The 2026 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
The CX-30–Encore GX Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-30 and Encore GX compare. The $1,925 gap is about $34/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S has 31 more hp (186 vs 155), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S when you want to keep $1,925 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred when the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $34/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.