MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2021 Buick Encore

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Buick Encore

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

0Recalls
9Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE BUICK ENCORE

The Buick Encore is a subcompact luxury SUV that has carved out a loyal following among urban drivers and empty-nesters who want a premium feel without the bulk of a full-size crossover. Slotting into one of the most competitive segments in the American market, the Encore pitches itself on refinement and ease of use, making it a natural fit for buyers who prioritize a composed, upscale daily driver.

VERDICT

The 2021 Buick Encore earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 92 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. No vehicle recalls are on file for this model year.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the Buick Encore as a refined, easy-to-live-with subcompact SUV that earns points for its upscale cabin feel and smooth ride. Most acknowledge the segment has grown increasingly competitive, and some note the Encore's powertrain options feel modest relative to newer rivals, though its overall package is consistently described as well-suited to comfort-focused buyers.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 19.8%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15152

Index breakdown

Crash protection66/70
Avoidance tech6/10
Defect record19.75/20
Forward collision warning: OptionalLane departure warning: OptionalStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

No vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Buick Encore at NHTSA as of 2026-07-02. Equipment recalls, if any, are excluded from the safety score.

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

9 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

0reported crash
0reported fire
1reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsPower Train 3Engine 3Service Brakes 2Unknown Or Other 1Electrical System 1Air Bags 1

Other Encore years

Rivals in SUV (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15152), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Buick Encore 2021. Class rank 15 of 118 in SUV 2021. Methodology · Disclosure