2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited wins on 2 MPG better, 25 more hp. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $5 price gap, 180 vs 155 hp, 29 vs 27 MPG.
The Crosstrek Limited leads on 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 Limited | 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,995 | $33,000 |
| 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 | 3,349 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 102.0" |
| Length | 176.4" | 171.2" |
| Width | 70.9" | 71.4" |
| Height | 63.0" | 65.2" |
| 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 Limited and 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited starts at $32,995, $5 less than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir at $33,000. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/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 Subaru Crosstrek Limited or 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited or 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited produces 180 hp, 25 more than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir at 155 hp. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 174 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is 5.2″ longer at 176.4″ vs 171.2″. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 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
The Crosstrek–Encore GX Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Crosstrek and Encore GX compare. The $5 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited has 25 more hp (180 vs 155), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 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 Limited wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited when you want to keep $5 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
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.