Buick Encore GX

Fresh for the 2024 model year, Buick's smallest model gets a new, more luxurious trim, and it's available for well within the $40,000 budget.

The Encore GX Avenir starts at $33,195, and includes features like the Buick Virtual Cockpit, an all-new infotainment system with a combined screen size of 19 inches. There are also "Avenir" logos embossed in various places around the cabin, including the front seat headrests. Those seats are both heated and leather-trimmed (although, it should be noted, not fully leather), and feature a unique stitching pattern. There's eight-way power control for the driver, and two-way control for lumbar support.

Niceties like a heated steering wheel are also included as standard, as well as various exterior touches to make the Avenir stand out from the standard Encore GX. It's safe to say that Buick has its work cut out for it making the car stand out from its competitors: We drove the previous generation car in 2021 and thought it was overall a bit forgettable. Hopefully, the driving dynamics of the new generation are just as much improved as its freshly launched top-spec interior.