2013 Buick Encore vs. Its Competition

Martin Padgett Editorial Director

The Buick Encore's slight stature and slightly upscale price tag doesn't make it a natural fit in a class of anything.

Still, there are a few crossovers worth cross-shopping when you're looking at the Encore a first, or a second time.

The Ford Escape's a perfectly fine alternative: it's larger, more spacious inside, much more tossable and enthusiastic to drive, and not much less efficient or finely finished than the Buick.

The MINI Countryman is sized more closely to the Encore, and its optional turbo versions really transform its outlook on the road ahead--though not much can help its awkward baseball-cap roofline.

The Infiniti EX37 fits the niche too, with low gas mileage for the pack but excellent handling, great styling, and a tight rear seat.

The BMW X1 mirrors those sentiments.

Then there's the VW Tiguan, which comes with a turbo four-cylinder and decent acceleration to go with nimble handling and right-sized packaging; would that it came with VW's great TDI diesel for great fuel economy, too.

Let us suggest one more radical alternative: the Ford C-Max, the new hybrid that consistently delivers at least as much gas mileage as the Encore at the same price points, with more usable room, a more handsome shape, and an arguably better-fitted cabin to boot.