There’s a lot to dig through between OEM and aftermarket accessory catalogs. We’ve done the busy work for you and found the top six accessories you should consider when personalizing your Encore GX. Every item might not make sense for your build, but use this as a starting point.
Window Tint
If you are like me–always reaching for your sunglasses when you step outside–then this is a must. Window tint is like having sunglasses for your car, and it’s great!
I used to think window tint was only about privacy, but there are many more benefits. It will improve the look of your vehicle and keep you cooler in the summer. It also helped me reduce the “commuter tan” on my left arm.
The Encore GX has factory tinted glass but it doesn’t cover every window equally and has a high visual light transference (VLT) rating. VLT is measured in percentage of light allowed in, so the lower the number, the darker it is.
We use Suntek Carbon film in 5%, 20%, and 35% VLT. Our most popular configuration is 35% on the front side windows and 20% on the rear sides and hatch. This combination gives great coverage while staying within the law of Missouri and Illinois. When deciding how dark you want to go it’s important to know the restrictions of your specific area.
Roof Wrap
Buick offers a Sport Touring Package for the Encore GX which adds black roof rails, roof and mirrors. This change along with the body color rocker panel moldings really transform the vehicle’s appearance into a very sporty SUV. These models are hard to come by right now and a bit pricey. You can emulate this look by adding a vinyl roof wrap.
We prefer wrapping the vehicle instead of repainting because of the lower-cost of vinyl and flexibility. Not the literal flexibility (although it is very stretchy), but the ability to change your mind down the road. Unlike paint, vinyl can be removable years later without hassle.
Matte and gloss black are most common, but we can do nearly any other color. Some films even come in unique finishes, such as metallic, textured, diamond, pearl, and chrome.
Powder Coated Wheels
Powder coating wheels might not sound like a no-brainer to you, but “would you just look at it!”
We were surprised by how good the Encore GX looks with all-black wheels. If you’re a fan of this look then we recommend powder coating instead of painting. Powder coating is more durable than a paint finish, and it usually costs less than replacing your wheels.
Floor Liners
We’re a fan of the vertical coverage of the WeatherTech FloorLiner, but at the moment of writing this they have yet to release a mat for the Encore GX. Luckily Buick Accessories has their own liner that is very comparable to WeatherTech.
Cargo Liner
A WeatherTech Cargo Liner is typically our go-to for most vehicles, but it’s hard to recommend anything besides the Buick Accessories Integrated Cargo Liner.
This liner covers the floor of the rear hatch and then extends up the backs of the rear seat. It articulates with the back row to extend your protection further when the seats are folded down. This is the sort of feature you can really only get from the original manufacturer and for only $30 more than their regular cargo mat, we wouldn’t recommend anything else.
Trailer Hitch
A trailer hitch doesn’t come standard on the Encore GX, so a lot of owners may be looking to upgrade. Adding a hitch opens a lot of doors for you. It means you can attach a cargo or bike carrier, or pull small trailers.
Hitches come in either 1.25 or 2 inch variants, so make sure you select the size that matches the carrier or hitch ball you intend to use. If you’re unsure it’s always better to go bigger. There are adapters to make 1.25 inch carriers fit in a 2 inch receiver, but not the other way around.
