2026 Nissan Kicks SR vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir
$4,840 less and 3 mpg better vs 34 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,840 price gap, 141 vs 155 hp, 30 vs 27 MPG.
The Kicks SR leads on $4,840 less, 3 MPG better. The Encore GX Avenir leads on 34 more lb-ft torque. 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 Nissan Kicks SR | 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $28,160 | $33,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 141 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 140 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 | 34 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,450/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,253 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.9" | 102.0" |
| Length | 171.9" | 171.2" |
| Width | 70.9" | 71.4" |
| Height | 64.0" | 65.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| 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 Nissan Kicks SR and 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR starts at $28,160, $4,840 less than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir at $33,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $85/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,840 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $156/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir is the stronger pick when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR or 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR rates 30 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR or 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir produces 155 hp, 14 more than the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR at 141 hp. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir also leads in torque at 174 lb-ft vs 140 lb-ft. The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR is 0.7″ longer at 171.9″ vs 171.2″. The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR has a 2.9″ 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: Nissan trims, Nissan Kicks trims, Buick trims, Buick Encore GX trims
The Kicks–Encore GX Decision
Cross-shopping subcompact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Kicks and Encore GX compare. The $4,840 gap adds up to $85/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 14 hp difference (155 vs 141) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir adds 34 more lb-ft of torque (174 vs 140), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR saves roughly $156/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $780. The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR when you want to keep $4,840 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment. At $85/month more, the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir 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 Nissan or Buick or any dealership.