By Nat Shirley
Thursday, Sep 20th, 2012 @ 2:53 pm
 

Buick has released official pricing information for its upcoming subcompact crossover, the Encore. With a starting price of $24,950 (including destination), the Encore will be the tri-shield brand's most affordable vehicle behind the Verano.

Base model standard kit includes a seven-inch LCD sceen with Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system, a backup camera, 18-inch wheels and 10 airbags. The Convenience Group trim level commands $25,760 and adds dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start, fog lights, a 120-volt outlet and dimming mirrors. The $27,460 Leather Group trim brings heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power-adjustable passenger's, a memory function for the driver's seat and, logically enough, leather upholstery.

The range-topping Premium Group ups the price to $28,940 and adds a seven-speaker Bose audio system, front and rear park assist, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning.

First revealed at the Detroit show earlier this year, the Encore rides on a slightly lengthened version of the Chevrolet Sonic's architecture. The little crossover is powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 140 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque and pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive is standard, while all-wheel-drive is available as a $1,500 option. 

The FWD Encore is rated at 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

The Encore is set to hit the market in the first quarter of 2013.