2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Buick Enclave represented a significant step in Buick's journey to reclaim its former glory. Once a brand known for its large, shiny, and impressive vehicles, Buick had struggled through a period of decline. However, the Enclave, with its American-made roots, helped the brand reconnect with its past while catering to the modern consumer's preference for SUVs. As the largest of Buick's four SUV offerings, the Enclave stood out with its premium styling, especially in the Avenir trim, which featured a unique grille, extra brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir boasted a minimalist design with organic forms, polished accents, and luxurious leather, although the wood trim was not genuine. Despite its size, the Enclave was easy to handle, although the electronic transmission shifter required some getting used to.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. The front end received a restyle, which some felt lacked the elegance of its predecessor. However, the Navigator's interior continued to impress with its quality materials and mid-century modern design, enhanced by the new Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The SUV also featured a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering ample display space. The Navigator was available in standard and long-wheelbase styles, with the Reserve trim being the sole option in Canada. The U.S.-spec Navigator Black Label, tested in a unique Central Park theme, showcased the vehicle's luxurious features, including heated, ventilated, and massaging second-row captain's chairs.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The engine produced 310 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 266 pound-feet of torque at 2,800 rpm, providing strong acceleration. The Enclave's towing capacity reached up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds) when properly equipped. The SUV's ride and handling were enhanced by a premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping, part of the Avenir Technology Package. Fuel efficiency was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the potential to travel over 900 kilometres on a single tank.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. The SUV's towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms (8,100 to 8,300 pounds) with the maximum tow package. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, equipped with Road Preview, provided a smooth ride even on imperfect pavement. The SUV's new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the test vehicle averaging 12.6 L/100 km.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering spacious and comfortable seating for six or seven passengers. The Avenir trim featured 12-way power-adjustable front seats with massaging functions, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel. The Enclave's third-row seat was roomy and accessible, with cargo space measuring 668 litres behind it, expanding to 2,764 litres with the second-row seats folded down.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued to offer exceptional comfort with its 30-way power-adjustable front seats, which were heated, ventilated, and available with massaging functions. The second-row captain's chairs also featured heating, ventilation, and massaging capabilities. The Navigator's third-row seat provided ample space and comfort, thanks to its independent rear suspension design. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third-row seat, expanding to 2,925 litres with the second-row seats folded down.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations, with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker Bose sound system. However, the system's screen size and audio components fell short compared to competitors. The Enclave offered a rear camera mirror and a Teen Driver function, but its connected services had short free trial periods.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering a user-friendly interface and voice recognition. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with the ability to save user profiles. The Navigator also featured an upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety systems were limited, with features like forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning restricted to higher trims. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, but its frontal-impact protection rated four stars. The IIHS gave it high marks, but a Marginal headlight performance rating prevented it from earning a Top Safety Pick accolade.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The SUV also featured a surround-view camera system. ActiveGlide, Lincoln's semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways. The system performed well within its operational limits, but drivers needed to remain attentive.