Why Are Few People Buying the Encore?
3 Answers
Few people buy the Encore because the vehicle is relatively heavy and has a low resale value. Relatively Heavy: In terms of power, the Encore is equipped with a 1.4T engine, delivering 143 horsepower and 205 Nm of torque. The Encore is not light in weight; even the entry-level 1.4T automatic model weighs 1,430 kg, while the four-wheel-drive version is even heavier at 1,510 kg, making driving the Encore feel underpowered. Low Resale Value: The Encore has a low resale value. The Encore GX's three-year resale rate is only 55%, which is a significant gap compared to the over 62% resale rate of Japanese or German cars in the same segment.
I'm a long-time car enthusiast who frequently studies the market. The low sales of the Buick Encore are primarily due to intense competition. The current SUV market is extremely crowded, with Japanese models like the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR offering similar prices but better fuel efficiency, higher reliability, plus more family-friendly space and interior designs. The Buick brand lacks appeal among younger consumers, coming across as somewhat old-fashioned. The Encore's pricing is also on the higher side without standout features, while its powertrain and fuel economy can't match competitors. Additionally, the car's low resale value means significant depreciation losses after a few years. I believe the manufacturer needs to focus on marketing innovation, perhaps adding more tech features or reducing prices to turn things around. My advice for car buyers: conduct thorough test-drive comparisons rather than just focusing on brand reputation.
I considered the Encore when buying a car recently, but ultimately didn't choose it mainly due to its poor cost-performance ratio. It's 10,000-20,000 RMB more expensive than competitors in the same class, yet offers ordinary configurations - the interior materials are mediocre and it lacks smart features. The fuel consumption is also relatively high, making it uneconomical for family use as it would increase daily expenses. While the space isn't small, it's not particularly advantageous either; the rear seats feel cramped with three passengers, less practical than Honda's offerings. The exterior design is too conservative and lacks personality, not appealing enough for younger buyers who prefer trendier models. Few of my friends bought this model, and its reputation is just average with reports of abnormal noises. Overall, it lacks core competitiveness, and most consumers opt for more economical alternatives. I'd recommend prioritizing fuel efficiency and practicality when choosing a car.
