2026 Buick Encore GX vs 2026 Subaru Forester in Conway, AR

Comparing Two Popular Compact SUVs in Conway

Compact SUVs continue to be one of the most practical choices for drivers in Conway and throughout Central Arkansas. That’s exactly why the 2026 Buick Encore GX vs 2026 Subaru Forester in Conway, AR is such a common comparison at Crain Buick GMC.

Both models seat five passengers, offer available or standard all-wheel drive, and come equipped with advanced safety systems. This comparison focuses strictly on the gas-powered versions of each SUV. While Subaru offers a hybrid Forester separately, the details below reflect the standard gasoline models only.

At first glance, these two SUVs appear similar in purpose. But once you look at design character, cabin refinement, technology execution, and everyday driving feel, clear differences begin to emerge.

Design and Everyday Presence

The 2026 Buick Encore GX leans confidently into upscale styling. Sculpted body lines, refined trim accents, and a modern front-end design give it a polished appearance that feels elevated for the subcompact SUV class. It doesn’t attempt to look rugged or overly aggressive. Instead, it delivers a clean, contemporary look that fits naturally into Conway’s growing residential communities and retail districts.

The 2026 Subaru Forester takes a different approach. Its upright stance and boxier profile emphasize visibility and function. Subaru’s latest refresh modernizes the look, but the Forester still prioritizes practicality over visual flair. For buyers who appreciate straightforward, utility-focused styling, that simplicity is part of its appeal.

Design Differences to Notice:

• Encore GX presents a more upscale, modern aesthetic
• Forester favors a traditional, upright SUV profile
• Buick emphasizes refinement, while Subaru highlights practicality

Ride Comfort and Driving Experience

On the road, both SUVs prioritize comfort over performance, but they achieve that goal differently.

The 2026 Encore GX offers two turbocharged engine options: a 137-horsepower 1.2-liter three-cylinder and an available 155-horsepower 1.3-liter three-cylinder. Front-wheel drive models use a continuously variable transmission, while all-wheel drive versions upgrade to a nine-speed automatic. Around town, the Encore GX feels composed and smooth. Suspension tuning absorbs rough pavement confidently, and the overall driving character is relaxed and controlled. For daily commuting through Conway or highway travel toward Little Rock, the ride remains steady and predictable.

The 2026 Subaru Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter flat-four engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. All gas models come standard with Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system paired with a CVT. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, though it is not especially quick. The Forester focuses on comfort and stability, particularly on uneven pavement or light off-road terrain, where its ground clearance and AWD system provide added reassurance.

Driving Character Comparison:

• Forester lists higher horsepower on paper (180 hp vs 155 hp max)
• Encore GX delivers a smoother, more refined on-road feel
• Subaru includes AWD standard, while Buick offers AWD optionally

Interior Comfort and Usable Space

Inside, the Encore GX strikes a careful balance between mainstream practicality and near-premium execution. Soft-touch materials, clean dashboard design, and a modern display layout elevate the cabin beyond what many expect in this segment. Front legroom measures 43.1 inches, while rear passengers receive 36.5 inches. Cargo space comes in at 23.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expands to 50.2 cubic feet when folded.

The Forester’s interior strength lies in spaciousness. Rear-seat passengers benefit from 39.4 inches of legroom, giving it an advantage in back-seat comfort. Cargo capacity measures 27.5 cubic feet behind the second row and expands to 69.1 cubic feet with seats folded. For families hauling sports gear, luggage, or larger loads, that additional cargo room can be meaningful.

Where the Encore GX distinguishes itself is in cabin ambiance. Materials and layout feel more refined, while Subaru’s interior focuses more on durability and functionality than upscale presentation.

Space and Comfort Highlights:

• Both SUVs seat five passengers
• Forester offers more rear legroom and maximum cargo capacity
• Encore GX provides a more premium-feeling cabin

Technology and Connectivity

Technology is a clear strength for the 2026 Buick Encore GX.

Every model includes an 11-inch infotainment touchscreen paired with an 8-inch driver information display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with remote start and active noise cancelling. The system responds quickly and feels intuitive, and the curved display layout gives the cabin a cohesive, upscale appearance.

To learn more about Buick’s cabin quietness and sound engineering, explore Experience Buick QuietTuning in the 2025 Encore GX at Crain Buick GMC in Conway, Arkansas.

The Forester features dual 7-inch displays on base trims and an available 11.6-inch touchscreen on most other trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included with the larger screen. The interface is functional and easy to navigate, though its graphics and overall presentation feel more traditional compared to the Encore GX’s modern layout.

Technology Comparison Points:

• Encore GX includes a standard 11-inch touchscreen
• Forester offers an available 11.6-inch display on most trims
• Buick’s system feels more polished and contemporary

Safety and Driver Assistance

Both SUVs deliver strong safety credentials for Conway families.

The Encore GX includes standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist. Adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system are available on higher trims.

The Forester comes equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight suite, which includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control as standard equipment.

For more insight into Buick’s safety technologies, visit Buick Safety Features in Conway, AR.

Safety System Differences:

• Both offer core driver-assistance features
• Forester includes adaptive cruise control standard
• Encore GX offers available 360-degree camera capability

Performance, AWD, and Fuel Economy

This comparison reflects gas-powered models only.

The 2026 Buick Encore GX produces between 137 and 155 horsepower, depending on engine choice. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available. Fuel economy reaches up to 29 mpg city and 31 mpg highway in front-wheel-drive form, while AWD models are rated at 26 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

The 2026 Subaru Forester produces 180 horsepower and includes standard all-wheel drive. EPA estimates reach 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, depending on trim.

Drivers focused on efficiency may also want to explore Which Buick and GMC Vehicles Have the Best Fuel Efficiency? for additional perspective.

Performance Snapshot:

• Forester offers higher peak horsepower
• Encore GX provides drivetrain flexibility
• Fuel economy remains competitive for both

Ownership Value and Long-Term Confidence

Both models include a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Encore GX includes one complimentary maintenance visit, while the Forester does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance.

These coverage levels are typical for the segment, though Buick’s included first service visit adds a small ownership advantage.

Ownership Considerations:

• Warranty coverage is identical
• Buick includes one complimentary maintenance visit
• Both are competitively positioned

Which SUV Fits Conway Drivers Best?

Conway offers a balance of city convenience and outdoor access. For drivers who enjoy exploring the region, you can also check out Why We Love Living in Conway, AR to see what makes this community special.

When comparing the 2026 Buick Encore GX vs 2026 Subaru Forester in Conway, AR, the Forester stands out for cargo capacity and standard all-wheel drive capability. However, the Encore GX distinguishes itself with a more refined cabin atmosphere, a polished technology interface, smooth ride quality, and upscale styling.

For many drivers seeking a compact SUV that feels elevated in everyday use, the 2026 Buick Encore GX emerges as the stronger overall choice.

FAQs

Q: Is the 2026 Buick Encore GX powerful enough for daily driving in Conway?
A: Yes. With up to 155 horsepower from its available 1.3-liter turbocharged engine, the Encore GX delivers smooth and confident acceleration for commuting, highway merging, and everyday errands. While the Forester lists higher horsepower on paper, both SUVs are tuned primarily for comfort-focused driving rather than performance.

Q: Which SUV offers a more refined interior experience?
A: The Encore GX stands out with its upscale cabin materials, clean dashboard layout, 11-inch infotainment display, and active noise cancelling. The Forester emphasizes space and practicality, but the Buick delivers a more polished and modern interior atmosphere.

Q: Which compact SUV is the better overall choice for most drivers in Conway, AR?
A: For drivers who prioritize smooth ride quality, advanced technology presentation, and a premium design in a compact footprint, the 2026 Buick Encore GX is the stronger overall fit. The Forester remains practical and spacious, but the Encore GX offers a more refined everyday driving experience.

Tags: 2026 Buick Encore GX, 2026 Subaru Forester, AWD SUVs Arkansas, Buick vs Subaru comparison, Compact SUVs in Conway AR, Crain Buick GMC Conway
Posted in Buicks for sale in Conway, Crain Buick GMC | No Comments »