Which is bigger, a Chevy Equinox or a Buick Encore?

In this comparison, we look at how the two vehicles stack up in overall size, interior space, and practical usefulness for daily use.

The Chevrolet Equinox is bigger.

More specifically, the Equinox generally measures longer, taller and wider than the Buick Encore, and it offers notably more cargo and passenger space. It’s important to note that Buick’s Encore has been phased out in the U.S. after the 2022 model year, with Buick’s current small SUV being the Encore GX, which is a separate model and sits between the Encore and larger Buick crossovers in size.

Size at a glance

Here are the key exterior dimensions that illustrate the size difference between the two models.

• Chevrolet Equinox (modern, late-model): Length about 183.1 inches; Wheelbase about 107.3 inches; Width about 72.5 inches; Height about 65.4 inches.


• Buick Encore (original, US-market): Length about 168.3 inches; Wheelbase about 100.6 inches; Width about 68.0 inches; Height about 60.0 inches.

Overall, the Equinox is longer, wider and taller than the Encore, which translates to more usable interior space and ease of highway presence.

Interior space and cargo capacity

Interior space figures show how the size difference translates to practical usability, including how much you can carry and how comfortable five adults might be.

• Chevrolet Equinox: Cargo behind rear seats (with seats up) about 29.5 cubic feet; Maximum cargo with rear seats folded about 63.9 cubic feet; Passenger volume around 103 cubic feet.


• Buick Encore: Cargo behind rear seats (with seats up) about 18.8 cubic feet; Maximum cargo with rear seats folded about 48.4 cubic feet; Passenger volume around 97 cubic feet.

In everyday terms, the Equinox offers substantially more cargo space and a little more passenger room than the traditional Encore, making it the more versatile choice for families or those who haul a lot of gear.

Notes on current market availability

As of the mid-2020s, the Chevy Equinox remains in production and widely available in the U.S. market. The Buick Encore, in its original form, was discontinued in the United States after the 2022 model year. Buick’s current small SUV lineup includes the Encore GX, which is a distinct model and sits between the original Encore and larger Buick crossovers in size.

Summary

The Chevy Equinox is noticeably larger than the Buick Encore in exterior dimensions and interior capacity. If you prioritize cargo space and roomy seating, the Equinox is the clearer choice. If you’re shopping Buick today, you’ll most likely encounter the Encore GX as the current small-SUV option, which is still smaller than the Equinox but offers a newer design and updated features).

What is the most common problem with the Buick Encore?

The most common problems with the Buick Encore include issues with the engine, brakes, and transmission, which are frequently reported, especially in earlier and GX models. Specific complaints involve loss of power, stalling, and turbocharger problems, as well as brake noises and grabby brakes. Other issues include problems with the emergency jack, dead batteries, and, in some cases, interior or electronic system defects. 
This video discusses common problems with the Buick Encore GX, including transmission and turbo issues: 56sNexologyYouTube · Aug 12, 2025
Common problems by category

• Engine:
  • Loss of power or stalling 
  • Turbocharger issues, sometimes leading to a "P0299" code, low power, or unexpected lurching 
  • Early models may experience issues like a dead battery or engine problems requiring rebuilds or replacement 
• Brakes:
  • Squealing, grinding, or shaking noises 
  • Brakes that grab or lock up upon starting 
  • Recall for brake sensor contamination in certain 2020-2021 GX models 
• Transmission:
  • Minor transmission issues, such as rough shifting or slipping 
  • Problems with the gear selector and linkage 
  • Reports of repeated repairs not solving the problem 
• Other issues:
  • Emergency Jack: A recall exists for the 2020-2022 Encore GX due to the emergency jack potentially fracturing if not used correctly. 
  • Dead Batteries: Particularly common in earlier models and those with many electrical features. 
  • Interior and Electronics: Reports of problems with the infotainment system, such as water damage to the amplifier. 
  • Airbags and Seatbelts: Some models have had recalls for these components. 

You can watch this video to see a demonstration of engine problems in the Buick Encore, including low power and P0299 code: 59s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Aug 6, 2025

Which is better, Chevy Equinox or Buick Encore?

The Chevy Equinox is a larger, more powerful SUV, while the Buick Encore is smaller and more fuel-efficient. The Equinox offers more cargo space, greater towing capacity, and a higher towing capacity, while the Encore is more affordable and has better gas mileage. The choice between the two depends on priorities: the Equinox is better for those who need more room for passengers or cargo, while the Encore is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize fuel economy.
 
You can watch this video to see the key differences between the Buick Encore and Encore GX: 55sWalser Buick GMC RosevilleYouTube · Sep 26, 2022

Feature	Buick Encore	Chevy Equinox
Size	Smaller, with less cargo and rear legroom	Larger, with more passenger and cargo space
Engine	Smaller engine, prioritizing fuel efficiency	Larger engine, prioritizing power and torque
Towing	Not specified, but likely lower due to smaller size	Up to 3,500 lbs
Fuel Economy	Slightly better MPG	Slightly lower MPG
Price	More affordable	Less affordable
Standard Safety Features	Fewer standard safety features	More standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot system, and adaptive cruise control

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Which Chevy Equinox to stay away from?

You should avoid Chevy Equinox model years 2010–2013 due to widespread problems with excessive oil consumption, engine issues, and stalling. Other years to be cautious about are the first generation models 2005–2008, which had issues like head gasket failures, and the 2015 model, which had a dangerous airbag defect. 
Specific model years to avoid

• 2005–2008: First-generation models, particularly the 2005, experienced significant engine problems like head gasket failures. 
• 2010–2013: This range is highly problematic for the second generation, with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine being especially prone to excessive oil consumption, stalling, and other engine damage. 
• 2015: A dangerous airbag defect was a major issue, where the front seat-mounted side impact airbag inflator could rupture on deployment. 
• 2018: The first year of a redesigned generation had issues with the powertrain, including a potential problem with the right front intermediate drive shaft fracturing. 

Common issues across various model years

• Oil Consumption: Primarily affects the 2010–2017 models, requiring frequent oil additions. 
• Transmission Problems: Reported in some models from 2011–2012 and 2010-2015 models with the 3.6L V6. 
• Electrical and Battery Issues: Occurred in the 2015 model, and 2005 models had ignition switch problems. 
• Brake and Fuel System Issues: Specific defects in some models, such as brake caliper issues in 2020 models, and a fuel pump problem in 2021-2024 models. 

Which models are safer to buy

• First generation (2008–2009): These are considered better options within the first generation. 
• Third generation (2017 onwards): Models from 2017, and especially 2019–2021, are considered more reliable, with 2019 being the first year after the 2018 redesign. 

What is the Chevy equivalent to the Buick Encore?

The Chevrolet Trax is the most direct equivalent to the Buick Encore, as they are built on the same platform and share many components. The Encore is positioned as a more premium version with a slightly more upscale design and features, while the Trax is the more budget-friendly option. However, the Buick Encore GX is often compared to the Chevrolet Trailblazer, as these are the newer, more distinct models in each brand's subcompact SUV lineup.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the comparison of Chevrolet Trax and Buick Encore: 1mAlderman's Chevrolet GMCYouTube · Sep 2, 2020
Encore vs. Trax

• Platform: Both SUVs are based on the same platform and have similar interior space and dimensions. 
• Positioning: The Encore is the more premium model, offering luxury touches and a more refined exterior design, while the Trax is the more affordable and budget-friendly option. 
• Features: The Encore typically comes with more standard features like a larger infotainment screen and a premium sound system, while the Trax is more basic at its base level. 
• Performance: Both models use the same engine, but the Encore has a slightly more powerful engine option (155 hp vs. 138 hp) and slightly better fuel economy (33 mpg highway vs. 31 mpg highway). 

Encore GX vs. Trailblazer

• Platform: The Encore GX and the Trailblazer are the newer models in their respective lineups and are often compared against each other. 
• Positioning: Both are subcompact SUVs, but the Encore GX is again positioned as the more premium offering with more standard features, while the Trailblazer is the more affordable option. 
• Features: The Encore GX typically comes with more standard features like a larger standard touchscreen and a higher-quality sound system. 
• Performance: Both SUVs offer a choice of two turbocharged engines, with similar performance specs.