Buick Encore Heads Straight to Top of List in APEAL Study

HANOVER, Mass. - Sept. 4, 2013 - PRLog -- Long known as a reliable, if somewhat staid, luxury automaker, Buick has been shaking things up with a refreshed lineup designed to attract younger car buyers. Its newest addition, the Buick Encore, offers premium amenities in a small crossover package with an affordable price tag. The Encore is scoring big with consumers, who recently gave it top marks in the J.D. Power and Associates 2013 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, and the new model won the Sub-Compact CUV segment.

Based on the responses of more than 83,000 owners and lessees of 2013-model-year vehicles, the annual APEAL Study strives to measure how gratifying a vehicle is to own and drive after 90 days of ownership. The survey covers 77 vehicle attributes across eight categories of performance and design, including styling and exterior; sound system; heating, ventilation and cooling; cockpit and instrument panel; seats; comfort and convenience; ride, handling and braking; and engine and transmission.

"When it was introduced for the 2013 model year, the Encore filled a need in the market by offering luxury that isn't oversized in either price or dimensions," said Vadim Makhlis, general manager of Prime Buick GMC, a Greater Boston Buick dealer. "Buyers love its comfortable interior and stylish looks, and we expect the 2014 model to build on that success."

Car buyers are not just issuing empty praise for the Encore, they're taking action. Last month, the crossover posted record monthly sales, moving more than 3,000 units. That growth helped the Buick brand overall mark its best July since 2006, with sales increasing by 19 percent over the same month last year. July also marked the 15th straight month of retail sales gains for the marque.

About Prime Buick GMC:

As a leading South Shore and Greater Boston Buick and GMC dealership, Prime Buick GMC is committed to helping Massachusetts drivers find the vehicle of their dreams. Whether you're searching for a Buick Verano, Buick Encore or GMC Sierra, you'll feel at home as soon as you walk into the showroom. Their dedication to a great dealership experience extends to the service center, which has the latest tools and technology to diagnose and service your vehicle. Visit them at 1877 Washington St. in Hanover, Mass., or online at http://www.primebuickgmc.com. To contact them by phone, call 781-709-1246. They can also be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Prime-Buick-GMC/17226077293....