There are many options if you’re interested in buying a luxury SUV. However, most of them are expensive, especially when they’re larger in size. Usually, they exceed $30,000 by a lot, sometimes even more than $50,000 for a base model. Fortunately, one model in the luxury SUV segment starts under $30,000. As a result, you can get the surprisingly luxurious 2023 Buick Encore GX for far less than the other luxury SUV models.

Which luxury SUV starts under $30,000?

The only luxury SUV that starts under $30,000 is the 2023 Buick Encore GX. With its newly announced starting prices, a Preferred base model is just $27,095 from the factory. Choosing a more costly trim, like the mid-tier Select model, will cost buyers just $28,495. According to Cars.com, only the range-topping Encore GX Essence exceeds the $30,000 mark at just $31,695. Each of the prices includes a $1,195 destination charge, but the SUV remains reasonably priced. What makes the luxury SUV start at such an affordable price? Does the lack of expense make the Encore GX a hard pass?

Did anything change for the 2023 Buick Encore GX?

According to Cars.com, the 2023 Buick Encore GX is nearly identical to the previous model year. It offers a balanced amount of versatility and luxury. The only significant changes are a new exterior color and a small price bump, up $1,500 from the 2022 model year. For $495, buyers can now choose the Moonstone Gray Metallic exterior paint color. Nothing else has changed, and the exterior styling has remained the same since it debuted as a 2020 model year.

Is a cheap luxury SUV worth buying?

One obvious question arises when faced with a luxury-labeled SUV for under $30,000. Is it cheaply priced because it’s cheaply made? How does it compare to other similarly-sized luxury SUV models? The 2023 Buick Encore GX is surprisingly excellent for its price. Edmunds states it has balanced, comfortable ride quality and dynamic handling. Additionally, there are many standard features for infotainment and safety. Lastly, despite its small appearance, the interior is surprisingly spacious for family SUV buyers.

Getting the cheapest Encore GX lands owners with front-wheel drive and a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine good for 137 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is an available option on any model in the lineup. In addition, the Preferred base model comes with heated mirrors, keyless entry/ignition, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, and active noise cancellation. Next, tech features include an eight-inch touchscreen, a Wi-Fi hotspot, six speakers, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, forward collision mitigation, lane departure mitigation, and automatic high beams.

The only luxury SUV that starts under $30,000

The only other 2023 Buick Encore GX trim to start under $30,000 is the Select model. It adds roof rails, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a rear armrest to the base model features. Additionally, the Cold Weather Comfort package is standard. It contains a remote engine start, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats.

Is the 2023 Buick Encore GX Preferred or Select model worth buying? Such a low starting price for a luxury SUV can scare buyers away. However, many expert reviewers believe it is a viable option at an affordable price. It’s surprising how many standard features come with the Encore GX. Although there are few changes for the new model year, the slight price increase feels worth it.