2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base wins on $905 less, 2 MPG better, 25 more hp. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $905 price gap, 180 vs 155 hp, 29 vs 27 MPG.
The Crosstrek Base leads on $905 less, 2 MPG better, 25 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 | 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base | 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,995 | $27,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,296 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 102.0" |
| Length | 176.4" | 171.2" |
| Width | 70.9" | 71.4" |
| Height | 62.8" | 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 | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base starts at $26,995, $905 less than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at $27,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $16/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $905 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base 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 Subaru Crosstrek Base or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base produces 180 hp, 25 more than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at 155 hp. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 174 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base is 5.2″ longer at 176.4″ vs 171.2″. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base has a 3.1″ 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: Subaru trims, Subaru Crosstrek trims, Buick trims, Buick Encore GX trims
Crosstrek vs Encore GX: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $905 gap is about $16/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base has 25 more hp (180 vs 155), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Crosstrek vs Encore GX
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base saves roughly $108/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $540. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base when you want to keep $905 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment. At $16/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 Subaru or Buick or any dealership.