The engine features an aluminum cylinder block and head, which helps reduce mass for better performance and efficiency. Engine efficiency is also bolstered through reduced friction, including low-friction piston rings, a low-friction camshaft drive and a low-friction oil pump. Additional engine features include:

• A durable steel crankshaft for strength and reduced engine vibration.
• Powder-metal steel connecting rods and hypereutectic-alloy aluminum pistons that are tough and contribute to quietness. They are used with low-tension rings that reduce friction.
• A variable-flow oiling system that helps maximize fuel efficiency. The crankshaft-driven oil pump matches oil supply to engine load, changing its capacity based on the engine’s demand for oil, eliminating energy wasted to pump unneeded oil.
• Piston-cooling oil jets that minimize piston temperatures.
• The cylinder head has a water-cooled exhaust manifold integrated within the aluminum casting. Its single-piece design helps quicken engine warm-up, which contributes to better emissions performance. Improved durability results from eliminating the need for gasket sealing around the exhaust ports, as well as offering under-hood packaging advantages.

To reduce NVH, the engine features include:

• The camshaft drive-chain, with an inverted-tooth design, and chain architecture designed for low sound levels.

• A lower, stamped steel sump at the bottom of the aluminum oil pan.

• The front-end accessory drive features an overriding alternator coupler to remove the effect of crankshaft oscillations. It also allows a reduction in tensioning force, which reduces friction levels and improves efficiency.

• Acoustically optimized covers for the top and front of the engine.

• Crankshaft isolation with iron main bearing inserts.

The 2016 Encore Sport Touring goes on sale this fall. All Encore models offer room for five and up to 48.4 cubic feet (1,371 liters) of storage space. Standard features include:

• Blue-accented halogen composite projector-beam headlamps
• IntelliLink voice-activated infotainment system with a seven-inch-diagonal, high-resolution, full-color display
• OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with a Wi-Fi hotspot, including a three-month/3GB data trial
• Rearview camera system
• Fold-flat front passenger seat that extends the cargo length and accommodates items up to eight feet long
• Ten standard air bags, including side-curtain and knee air bags
• QuietTuning with Bose Active Noise Cancellation technology
• Heated outside rearview mirrors with signal indicators
• Fuel-saving electric power steering
• Four-wheel disc brakes.

Encore Sport Touring also includes the Convenience package, which adds a 120-volt power outlet, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror, dual-zone climate control, fog lamps, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert and remote starting.

All-wheel drive, a premium Bose audio system, navigation radio and a moonroof are available.