Both the Encore GX and the CX-30 draw power from turbocharged engines, but the Buick brings more to the equation in terms of drivetrain flexibility. The Encore GX is powered by a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine and offers available all-wheel drive across every trim level - Preferred, Sport Touring, and Avenir.

That means whether you choose the entry-level configuration or the premium Avenir, AWD capability is always within reach. The CX-30 also offers AWD, but the Encore GX's 9-speed automatic transmission available on upper trims helps deliver smooth, confident acceleration.

Step inside the Encore GX, and you immediately sense how much thought went into the cabin. The Buick QuietTuning system works to dampen road and wind noise, creating a noticeably serene driving environment that the CX-30 simply cannot match at this price point. Encore GX buyers can choose from cloth with leatherette seating on the Preferred trim, all the way up to perforated leather-appointed seats with unique quilted stitching on the Avenir.

The Avenir also adds a heated steering wheel and dual-zone automatic climate control - features that elevate everyday comfort meaningfully. Flexible cargo versatility comes courtesy of 40/60 split rear seats and an available flat-folding front-passenger seatback.

The Encore GX delivers an impressive technology package that begins with a standard ultrawide 11-inch diagonal HD color touchscreen paired with a reconfigurable 8-inch diagonal Driver Information Center. Wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility and wireless Android Auto compatibility come standard, so connecting your smartphone is effortless - no cables needed.

The CX-30 offers an 8.8-inch display but lacks wireless connectivity across its lineup. The Encore GX Avenir adds an available hands-free power liftgate, which lets you open and close the cargo area with a simple kicking motion below the bumper - a small detail that makes a big difference in daily use.

Safety is a standard priority in the Encore GX, not an optional extra. The Buick Driver Confidence suite comes standard across all trims and includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam auto high beams.

This comprehensive suite of features covers the most common risk scenarios on the road. The CX-30 also offers a solid safety package, but Buick reputation speaks volumes - it has been recognized by J.D. Power as the No. 1 mainstream brand for both dependability and sales satisfaction.

The 2026 Buick Encore GX is offered in three distinct trim levels - Preferred, Sport Touring, and Avenir - each crafted to suit a different kind of driver. The Preferred starts with a refined, well-equipped base that includes the full infotainment suite and standard safety technology.

The Sport Touring adds a bold, athletic character with 18-inch Gloss Black wheels, a flat-bottom steering wheel, gloss-black exterior accents, and leatherette seating with ST badging. The Avenir represents the highest expression of Buick luxury, featuring 19-inch aluminum wheels with a Pearl Nickel finish, premium leather-appointed seating, and elevated interior finishes that rival vehicles priced well above this segment.

The 2026 Buick Encore GX simply offers more - more refinement, more technology, and more trim options - compared to the 2026 Mazda CX-30. From the whisper-quiet cabin enabled by QuietTuning technology to the fully featured Avenir trim, the Encore GX is purpose-built to deliver an elevated small SUV experience.

For drivers seeking a small crossover that punches above its class, the Encore GX is the clear choice.