The 2025 Buick Encore GX is a surprisingly elegant subcompact SUV but how does it fare against the ever-popular Chevy Trailblazer? Let’s break down what makes each one tick and why the Encore GX might just edge out the Trailblazer, when it comes time to sign on the dotted line!
Key Takeaways
- The Trailblazer is one of the cheapest SUVs out there; while the Encore GX costs a bit more, its upscale vibe feels worth the premium.
- The 2025 Trailblazer sits between $24,495 and $30,695, while the Encore GX runs from $27,335 to $32,895. Prices effective May 31, 2025.
- Both models received only a few tweaks this year in mostly new colors and E85 compatibility.
2025 Chevy Trailblazer vs 2025 Buick Encore GX: Prices, Updates, and New Features
For 2025, the Encore GX sees only small refinements. Its engine now handles E85 fuel as well as E10, and remote start is standard on all trims. Aquamarine Blue joins the color palette, but say goodbye to Sunrise Red Metallic and White Frost Tricoat on Preferred and ST trims. If you want something sportier, the Avenir trim introduces Cinnabar Red and Copper Ice Metallic finishes.
Its trims are:
- Preferred: $27,335
- Sport Touring: $28,535
- Avenir: $32,895
The Trailblazer got a major makeover in 2024, so this year’s changes are minor. You’ll now find a new Marina Blue Metallic paint option, and its base engine can run on E85. Beyond that, everything else remains the same.
Trim prices are:
- LS: $24,495
- LT: $25,695
- RSL: $29,095
- ACTIV: $29,095
Engine, Performance, and Fuel Economy in the 2025 Chevy Trailblazer vs 2025 Buick Encore GX
Both the Trailblazer and Encore GX offer the same two engines:
- 1.2L turbo three-cylinder (137 horsepower, 162 lb-ft of torque) mated to a CVT
- 1.3L Turbo Four-Cylinder (155 horsepower, 174 lb-ft of torque) paired with a nine-speed automatic
Front-wheel drive is standard on both SUVs; all-wheel drive is available only with the larger 1.3L engine.
Fuel economy with the 1.2L four-wheel drive is 30 mpg city / 31 mpg highway—E85 drops it to 22 mpg combined. The 1.3L four-wheel drive bumps those numbers up to 31 mpg combined (29 mpg city / 33 mpg highway), while all-wheel drive with the 1.3L is rated at 27 mpg combined.
Comfort and Cargo Space in the 2025 Chevy Trailblazer vs 2025 Buick Encore GX
Inside, the Trailblazer’s cabin features black plastic surfaces, but higher trims add chrome accents and colored trim pieces to lift the mood. Its front seats sit a little higher than most subcompacts, giving you a better view of the road. Two adults fit comfortably in the back, and the rear seats fold flat for extra cargo space. There’s even a fold-down front passenger seat for long items.
The Encore GX’s interior feels a touch more upscale thanks to higher-quality materials and softer surfaces. Taller passengers may find the cabin a bit cozier, but getting in and out is easy. Cargo space is generous, too—the rear seats and front passenger seat both fold flat, giving you a roomier area for whatever you need to haul.
How Do the 2025 Chevy Trailblazer vs 2025 Buick Encore GX Stack Up in Infotainment and Technology Features?
Both SUVs share similar tech hardware in an 8.0-inch digital gauge cluster next to an 11.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. Also included are two USB ports, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. A six-speaker stereo comes standard on each (though you have an available Bose 7-speaker system on the Trailblazer’s Adaptive Cruise and Sound Package).
The Encore GX pulls ahead in its layout as the infotainment screen sits in a sleek, curved panel that feels premium, and the menus are easy to navigate. The Trailblazer’s system works fine, but the Encore GX’s attention to detail, like slightly faster response times and a more intuitive menu structure, makes you feel like you’re in a more upscale cabin.
Is the Buick Encore GX Worth the Upgrade over the Trailblazer?
Once you slide into the 2025 Buick Encore GX, the difference is obvious. The Encore GX feels more refined, with a more thoughtfully designed cabin and tech that’s just easier to live with. You’re still getting great fuel economy and versatility, but it’s wrapped in a package that actually feels premium. If you're still unconvinced, there's only one way to know for sure, and that's by taking a test drive at our Reliable Buick showroom in Roseville!