Buick Encore GX Trade in Value: Here's What You Should Get and Why
The Buick Encore GX is a relative newcomer, having debuted for the 2020 model year as a slightly larger, more premium sibling to the original Buick Encore.
It is proving to be a surprisingly resilient asset on the trade-in lot. While it doesn't hold the blue chip status of, say, a Honda, its premium positioning allows it to bypass the steeper depreciation seen by economy compacts like its corporate cousin, the Chevrolet Trailblazer.
Its value is currently seeing a bump due to the 2024 refresh, which introduced the Avenir trim and a more aggressive digital dashboard.
The Avenir & Sport Touring Bump (2024+)
2024 was a pivotal year for the Encore GX. Buick ditched the old Select/Essence trim structure in favor of Preferred, Sport Touring, and Avenir.
- The Avenir Factor: The Avenir models are the must-have trades. Because they feature high-end leather, unique grilles, and the fully digital cockpit, dealers are eager to acquire them for their Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) inventory. An Avenir trim often fetches a $2,500 premium over the Preferred on trade-in.
- The Screen Dividend: 2024+ models feature the 19-inch virtual cockpit system. Tech is the primary driver of used value. If you have the refreshed 2024 interior, your car is significantly more desirable than a 2023, even if the mileage is identical.
The Engine Context: 1.2L vs 1.3L
The Encore GX was offered with two turbocharged three-cylinder engines.
- The 1.3L Advantage: Used buyers (and dealers) have a strong preference for the 1.3-liter engine (standard on AWD models and higher trims). It offers 155 hp compared to the 1.2L's 137 hp. If your trade-in has the 1.3L engine, highlight it. It can add roughly $500–$800 to your "Average" valuation.
Market Tip: The QuietTuning Check
Buick’s marketing revolves around QuietTuning, a combination of acoustic glass and active noise cancellation.
- The Condition Penalty: If your Encore GX has had a windshield replacement with non-acoustic (cheaper) glass, a dealer may dock your trade-in by $400–$600. Appraisers look for the acoustic stamp on the glass to ensure the car still delivers that signature Buick quiet ride.
Buick Encore GX Trade-In Value Guide (2020–2024)
Values assume standard annual mileage (~12,000 miles). AWD models typically add $1,000–$1,500 to the figures below.
Year | Trim | Worse (Fair) | Average (Good) | Better (Excellent) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | Preferred | $17,800 | $20,400 | $22,500 |
Sport Touring | $19,500 | $22,200 | $24,800 | |
Avenir | $21,900 | $24,800 | $27,400 | |
2023 | Preferred | $15,400 | $17,800 | $19,900 |
Select | $16,800 | $19,200 | $21,500 | |
Essence | $18,200 | $20,900 | $23,400 | |
2022 | Preferred | $13,500 | $15,800 | $17,900 |
Select | $14,900 | $17,300 | $19,600 | |
Essence | $16,400 | $18,800 | $21,200 | |
2021 | Preferred | $11,800 | $14,100 | $16,200 |
Select | $13,100 | $15,400 | $17,500 | |
Essence | $14,500 | $16,900 | $19,100 | |
2020 | Preferred | $10,400 | $12,600 | $14,500 |
Select | $11,700 | $13,900 | $15,800 | |
Essence | $12,900 | $15,200 | $17,200 |
AutoGuide’s Advice:
The Encore GX is a visual luxury vehicle. Because it’s smaller, any dents or significant paint scratches (especially on the 2024+ models' more intricate grilles) stand out. To secure a "Better than Excellent" price, invest in a high-quality interior detail. The leatherette and leather surfaces in the Encore GX show wear easily. A clean, supple interior is the fastest way to convince a dealer your car is "Excellent" rather than just "Good."
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