2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred
$1,565 less and 3 mpg better vs 23 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,565 price gap, 169 vs 155 hp, 30 vs 27 MPG.
The Corolla Cross L leads on $1,565 less, 3 MPG better. The Encore GX Preferred leads on 23 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 Toyota Corolla Cross L | 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,335 | $27,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 169 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,274 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 103.9" | 102.0" |
| Length | 176.1" | 171.2" |
| Width | 71.9" | 71.4" |
| Height | 64.9" | 64.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 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 | 2yr/25k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L starts at $26,335, $1,565 less than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at $27,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $27/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,565 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $156/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 Toyota Corolla Cross L or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L rates 30 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L produces 169 hp, 14 more than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at 155 hp. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred also leads in torque at 174 lb-ft vs 151 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L is 4.9″ longer at 176.1″ vs 171.2″. The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L has a 1.9″ 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: Toyota trims, Toyota Corolla Cross trims, Buick trims, Buick Encore GX trims
Corolla Cross vs Encore GX: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L 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 $1,565 gap is about $27/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 14 hp difference (169 vs 155) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Corolla Cross vs Encore GX
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L saves roughly $156/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $780. The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L when you want to keep $1,565 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment. At $27/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 Toyota or Buick or any dealership.