Buick Ready For Its Encore

Buick has enjoyed something of a comeback story in recent years, and now the brand is branching out into small SUV territory with the upcoming Encore.

This small SUV will be powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that mates to a six-speed automatic transmission, and it will offer features like dual-zone climate control, a remote start, a premium stereo system, rain-sensing wipers, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, a rearview camera, a navigation system, heated front seats, and satellite radio.

2013 Buick Encore

We spoke with Encore's Lead Creative Designer Heather Scalf and Creative Designer Magdalena Kokoszynska about what Buick expects from the Encore when it hits the market in early 2013.

Some have wondered why Buick even needs a small SUV--after all, the brand seems to be doing just fine with the larger Enclave crossover. Scalf counters that the Encore will "round out the Buick portfolio."

Certainly, the Encore looks the part, and keeping the family resemblance was one of the challenges for design team.

Kokoszynska says that despite the similarities, the Encore won't be immediately mistaken for its big brother.

"It has a unique personality," she said. "It fits into the portfolio quite beautifully."

Scalf says that the Encore provides "a nice range of environments," giving it that "luxury aspect in a small crossover."

That's the question Buick is facing--will luxury buyers choose a small crossover, or will they instead save some cash by shopping for more-mainstream models like GM's own Chevrolet Equinox or GMC Terrain?

We'll know more in about a year.