DETROIT – General Motors’ Buick brand introduced the all-new 2013 Encore, a luxury small crossover, at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. GM said the new vehicle is slated to go on sale in early 2013.

Performance

The new Buick Encore is powered by an Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. It generates an estimated 140 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm) between 1,850 rpm and 4,900 rpm, according to the automaker. Some of the engine’s systems designed to improve fuel-efficiency include a high-efficiency alternator; regulated voltage control; electronically controlled returnless fuel system; and deceleration fuel cut-off. The automaker has not yet announced fuel-economy numbers for the new Encore.

Exterior

According to GM, signature design cues on the new vehicle include a waterfall grille, chrome accents and surrounds, portholes on the hood, and painted lower panels, similar in design to the Enclave. The Encore features blue-accented projector-beam headlamps and standard 18-inch, five-spoke painted aluminum wheels. Rainsense wipers are optional.

Interior

Inside, the new Encore has room for five and provides 48.4 cu. ft. of storage space with the rear sear seat folded down. GM is offering three interior colors for the vehicle. The rear seat features a fold-down armrest with cup holders. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are available. Interior accents include ice blue ambient lighting, select use of bright trim, and wood-grain trim. GM said premium seats with high-density foam come in either a contemporary cloth/leatherette motif or available leather.

When it comes to infotainment technology, the Encore features a full-color, seven-inch LCD display for the IntelliLink voice-activated radio system. Other displays include one for SiriusXM satellite radio and available navigation and rear camera systems.

Other options include a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls; remote vehicle start; dual-zone automatic climate control; a Bose premium sound system; and a six-way, power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar adjustment and driver memory.

Safety

The new Encore features a range of safety technologies, from 10 standard airbags to available forward collision alert and lane departure warning; available front and rear park assist; in addition to the previously mentioned available rear vision camera. GM is also offering an available all-wheel drive system.

Standard technologies include StabiliTrak electronic stability control, four-wheel disc brakes, with ventilated front discs and solid rear discs and ABS, and cornering brake control and brake assist. The vehicle is also designed to protect occupants, with 63% of the underbody structure being comprised of high-strength steels, while 57% of the upper body uses high-strength steels, including ultra-high-strength steel.

The Encore also offers exclusive OnStar technology, which includes the Advanced Crash Response System, emergency assistance, and more, according to GM.