2021 Buick Enclave vs 2020 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Toyota Highlander presented a design that was subtly refined from its predecessor, with a slanted tailgate glass and more pronounced body panel creases. The trapezoidal theme was evident in various elements, including the tailgate's license plate cutout and the grille. Standard projector-beam LED headlights were a feature across all trims, with the higher trims, Limited and Platinum, boasting prettier LED running lamps and new 20-inch alloy wheels. The interior of the Highlander was where it truly shone, with quality fit and finish, silver-painted accents, and a multi-layered dash. The Limited trim offered a three-tone interior with rich textures and padded surfaces, making it a standout in its class.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave harked back to Buick's glory days with its large, shiny, and impressive design. It was the largest of Buick's SUV offerings, with a design that exuded premium appeal, especially in the Avenir trim with its unique grille and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir featured a minimalist approach with organic forms and tasteful polished accents. The leather seats were soft, perforated, and embroidered, adding a touch of luxury, although the wood accents were not genuine. The Enclave's simplicity extended to its controls, with the exception of the electronic transmission shifter, which required some getting used to.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. This engine delivered 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, providing brisk acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission made full use of the engine's power, although it required a heavy foot for a kickdown. The Highlander's steering was loose, and the suspension was soft, leading to a ride that was more about comfort than precision. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with the FWD model rated at 11.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.3 on the highway.

The 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It produced 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, with a low torque peak that contributed to strong acceleration. The Enclave's ride was enhanced by a premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping, providing a smooth experience across various driving conditions. Fuel efficiency was rated at 11.2 L/100 km in combined driving for the FWD model. The Enclave's towing capacity was impressive, with a maximum rating of 2,268 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander offered seating for eight, or seven with the second-row captain's chairs. The second-row seats were versatile, with generous adjustments and easy access to the third row. Cargo space was ample, with 453 litres behind the third row, 1,359 litres behind the second, and 2,378 litres with both rows folded. The Highlander's interior was designed for convenience, with features like three-zone automatic climate control and multiple cupholders and storage options.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, providing comfortable seating for six or seven passengers. The Avenir trim featured power-adjustable front seats with massage functions, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Enclave's third-row seat was spacious, and cargo space was generous, with 668 litres behind the third row, 1,642 litres with the third row folded, and 2,764 litres with the second row down. The Enclave's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, with features like triple-zone climate control and a stylish centre console.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander's infotainment system was considered outdated, with low-resolution screens and a lack of onboard apps. However, it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a 10-inch head-up display, and a 7-inch display in the instrument cluster. The semi-automated driving system was effective, and the JBL audio system on higher trims was decent. Safety Connect and other connected services were available, with a one-year trial included.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations, with quick response times and a simple user interface. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. However, the 8-inch touchscreen and 10-speaker Bose sound system were seen as lacking compared to competitors. The Enclave offered a rear camera mirror and a Teen Driver function, but the free trial periods for connected services were short.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. It received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a 2020 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety features were limited to higher trims, with the Driver Confidence Plus Package available on Premium and Avenir trims. This package included forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and other features. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, but its frontal-impact protection was rated four stars. The IIHS gave it high marks, but a Marginal headlight performance rating prevented it from earning a Top Safety Pick accolade.