2026 Buick Encore GX Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-30

The 2026 Buick Encore GX is powered by a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, and available all-wheel drive comes as an option across every trim level. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 offers a base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 186 horsepower, with a turbocharged upgrade available on higher trims pushing output up to 250 horsepower using premium fuel. While the CX-30's turbo option is spirited, AWD is standard on the CX-30 rather than available - which adds cost implications for buyers who simply want front-wheel drive. The Encore GX gives buyers the flexibility to choose their drivetrain without being locked into a configuration.

Inside, the Encore GX impresses with a well-appointed cabin designed for quiet, comfortable travel. Buick's signature QuietTuning technology actively reduces road and wind noise, creating a noticeably serene interior environment that elevates everyday commutes. Seating is available in cloth with leatherette on the Preferred trim, while the Avenir steps up to perforated leather-appointed seats with quilted stitching. The Encore GX also offers 23.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, along with a 40/60 split-folding rear seat for flexible hauling. The Mazda CX-30 provides 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats upright - noticeably less room than the Encore GX for everyday errands and weekend adventures.

The 2026 Encore GX comes standard with an ultrawide 11-inch diagonal HD color touchscreen paired with a reconfigurable 8-inch diagonal Driver Information Center, delivering a modern and intuitive interface from the moment you sit down. Wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility and wireless Android Auto compatibility are included, making it easy to connect without fumbling for cables. The available panoramic power moonroof and available hands-free power liftgate on the Avenir trim add premium convenience that drivers will appreciate daily. The Mazda CX-30 offers a 10.25-inch center display on the Preferred trim and above, with wireless smartphone integration available on select trims - but buyers must move up the trim ladder to access features that come more accessibly on the Encore GX.

Both vehicles arrive with strong safety credentials, but the Encore GX delivers a thorough suite of driver assistance features standard across all trims. Buick Driver Confidence includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, and IntelliBeam Auto High Beams - all included without needing to upgrade. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 has earned a 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award and a 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating, which are impressive credentials. However, some of its more advanced braking assist features are only available on mid-to-upper trims, meaning entry-level buyers may not get the full picture.

The 2026 Encore GX is offered in three thoughtfully structured trims. The Preferred brings QuietTuning, the ultrawide touchscreen, and cloth with leatherette seating as a refined entry point. The Sport Touring adds an athletic edge with 18-inch Gloss Black wheels, a flat-bottom steering wheel, a unique gloss-black grille, and leatherette seats with bold Santorini Blue accents. The Avenir represents Buick's highest expression of luxury in this segment, featuring 19-inch aluminum wheels with Pearl Nickel finish, perforated leather-appointed seats with quilted stitching, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, and the available hands-free power liftgate. With three distinct personalities, there's an Encore GX for virtually every type of driver.

Drivers in Owings Mills, MD who want a small SUV that feels genuinely elevated - inside and out - will find the 2026 Buick Encore GX delivers more refinement, more technology, and more flexibility than the 2026 Mazda CX-30. From its spacious, whisper-quiet cabin to its versatile trim lineup, the Encore GX is a small SUV that thinks bigger.