2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2020 Acura MDX was a well-designed crossover SUV, though its styling was not particularly groundbreaking or attention-grabbing. It blended seamlessly into its surroundings, neither embarrassing nor overly impressing its driver. The MDX featured Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which added a touch of sophistication to its front end. The sleek, low-slung design with chiseled details and a fast roofline gave it a modern appearance. Inside, the MDX boasted a simple yet contemporary interior, highlighted by twin infotainment screens and high-quality materials that contributed to a solid and well-built feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave harkened back to Buick's glory days with its large, shiny, and impressive design. It was the largest of Buick's SUVs, offering a commanding presence on the road. The Avenir trim added extra flair with a unique grille pattern and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir featured an upscale styling theme with organic forms, minimalist controls, and polished accents. The interior was luxurious, with soft leather seats and a wood-and-leather steering wheel, though the wood was not genuine. The Enclave's simplicity was marred only by its electronic transmission shifter, which required some getting used to.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrain options: a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, and the MDX Sport Hybrid, which combined a 3.0-litre V6 engine with three electric motors for a total of 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The MDX demonstrated strong straight-line performance and nimble handling, especially with the Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system, which enhanced cornering through torque vectoring. Its four-wheel independent suspension provided a comfortable ride, making it a reliable choice for long journeys.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine generating 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard on the Essence trim in Canada, while all-wheel drive was available on higher trims. The Enclave's V6 engine delivered strong acceleration, and its nine-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth shifts. The Enclave's premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping provided a comfortable ride across various driving conditions. Fuel efficiency was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with a range of over 900 kilometres on a single tank.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered a practical and spacious interior, with sliding and reclining second-row seats for easy access to the third row. It provided 447 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 1,229 litres with the third row folded, and 2,574 litres with the second row down. The MDX featured ample storage options, including a flexible centre console and door panel pockets. Tri-zone climate control ensured comfort for all passengers, making it a stylish alternative to a minivan.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering generous space for six or seven passengers. Its QuietTuning technology, along with Active Noise Cancellation and laminated glass, created a serene cabin environment. The Avenir trim featured power-adjustable, massaging front seats, and a stylish centre console with hidden storage. The Enclave's third-row seat was spacious, and cargo space measured 668 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,642 litres with the third row folded, and 2,764 litres with the second row down.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with a range of technology features, including Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a CD/MP3 player. The Technology Package added navigation, parking sensors, and a premium audio system. Higher trims offered additional features like heated rear seats, a surround-view camera, and a rear entertainment system.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. However, its 8-inch touchscreen and 10-speaker Bose sound system were less impressive compared to competitors. The Enclave offered upgrades like navigation, wireless charging, and a rear camera mirror, but its technology offerings were limited in comparison to other premium SUVs.

The 2020 Acura MDX featured the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a five-star overall rating from the latter.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety features were more limited, with advanced systems like adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking only available on the Avenir trim with the Technology Package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal-impact protection was rated four stars. The IIHS gave it high marks, but its headlight performance was rated as Marginal.