2020 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2020 Ford Explorer was a striking vehicle, boasting a more refined and athletic design compared to its predecessors. Its widened headlights, large grille, and distinctive "Explorer" lettering on the hood gave it a recognizable and handsome appearance. The ST version, with its black 21-inch rims and quad exhaust pipes, was particularly eye-catching. However, the interior did not match the exterior's appeal. Despite its high price tag, the interior materials felt subpar, with low-grade vinyl and hard plastics dominating the cabin. The Explorer's interior lacked the luxury feel expected at its price point, making it less appealing compared to more affordable competitors like the Kia Telluride.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave offered a blend of modern design and a nod to Buick's past grandeur. It was the largest SUV in Buick's lineup, providing a spacious and comfortable ride. The Avenir trim added a touch of luxury with its unique grille, brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir featured a minimalist design with soft leather seats and polished accents, though the wood trim was not genuine. The interior was simple yet elegant, with a focus on comfort and functionality, marred only by a somewhat fussy electronic transmission shifter.

The 2020 Ford Explorer excelled in performance, particularly with its rear-wheel-drive chassis and available engines. The ST trim featured a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided smooth and addictive power delivery, with the option for all-wheel drive. The Explorer's handling was nimble, with precise steering and flat cornering, making it a standout in its class. The 2.3-liter turbo inline-four engine offered 300 horsepower, while a hybrid option combined a 3.3-liter V6 with an electric motor for 318 horsepower. Towing capacity varied, with the V6 AWD capable of towing up to 5,600 pounds. The Explorer also offered seven drive modes for various conditions.

The 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive, the Enclave provided strong acceleration and a smooth ride. The Avenir Technology Package enhanced the driving experience with a premium-tuned suspension and automatic emergency braking. The Enclave's suspension was praised for its comfort and adaptability across different driving environments. Fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined, with a range of up to 460 miles on a full tank. The Enclave's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2020 Ford Explorer offered ample interior space, making it ideal for road trips. The second row featured air vents, USB ports, and a panoramic moonroof, enhancing comfort. The third row accommodated six-foot-tall adults for short trips, though the bench was flat. Cargo space was generous, with 18 cubic feet behind the third row, 48 cubic feet behind the second row, and 88 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Explorer's controls were intuitive, with physical knobs and switches, though visibility was hindered by thick D-pillars and fuzzy cameras.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, providing a quiet and comfortable cabin for up to seven passengers. The Avenir trim featured power-adjustable, massaging front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The center console offered ample storage, and the second-row captain's chairs were heated. The third row was spacious, with easy access through large rear doors. Cargo space was impressive, with 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 58 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 97.6 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2020 Ford Explorer came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, Sync 3 infotainment, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G WiFi. The Premium Technology Package added a 10-inch touchscreen and a 12-inch digital instrument cluster. While the interface was user-friendly, the system lacked innovation, and updates required an external WiFi connection. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ offered semi-automated driving features but was not as advanced as competitors.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. However, the 8-inch touchscreen was the largest available, and the sound system was not as advanced as competitors. The Enclave lacked integration with digital assistants like Amazon Alexa. The rear camera mirror was a notable feature, providing a live video feed of the rear view.

The 2020 Ford Explorer included Ford Co-Pilot 360 as standard, with features like forward emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The Assist+ option added adaptive cruise control and reverse braking, though it was prone to false activations. The Explorer had not been fully tested by NHTSA, but IIHS rated it Acceptable in the small overlap test.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety features were limited to higher trims. The Driver Confidence Plus Package, standard on Premium and Avenir trims, included forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Adaptive cruise control was only available with the Avenir Technology Package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though frontal-impact protection was rated four stars. IIHS gave it high marks, but headlight performance was rated Marginal.