2021 Buick Enclave vs 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered a diverse range of trims, each with distinct styling elements that set them apart. The base LS and popular LT trims featured different grille patterns, while the sporty RST trim boasted a slotted grille, a blacked-out appearance, and 22-inch wheels. The rugged Z71 trim combined the LS grille with a blacked-out look, a redesigned front end for off-roading, red tow hooks, a skid plate, and unique 20-inch wheels with all-terrain tires. The upscale Premier trim adopted the RST’s slotted grille with chrome accents, and the luxurious High Country trim showcased a chrome bar grille and bright-finished 22-inch wheels. The Tahoe’s design was characterized by its dominant grille, standard LED headlights, and expressive taillights. The interior featured a 10.2-inch infotainment screen and new electronic transmission controls, though the control layout was somewhat compromised. The Z71 trim we tested included numerous upgrades, resulting in a price of $80,293.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was a large, stylish SUV that harkened back to Buick’s glory days while catering to modern consumer preferences. It was the largest of Buick’s SUV lineup, offering a spacious and comfortable interior. The Enclave’s Avenir trim added a unique grille pattern, extra brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels, enhancing its premium appearance. Inside, the Avenir featured organic forms, a minimalist approach to controls, and polished accents. The leather seats were soft and perforated, though the wood trim was not genuine. The Enclave’s simplicity extended to its fussy electronic transmission shifter, which was easy to master. The Avenir Technology Package, recommended for its premium-tuned suspension and automatic emergency braking, elevated the driving experience. The Enclave’s ride and handling were impressive, providing comfort across various driving conditions.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe offered three engine options. Most trims came with a 5.3-litre V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The High Country trim featured a 6.2-litre V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged 3.0-litre diesel engine, available for all trims except the Z71, delivered 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, offering improved fuel efficiency. The Tahoe’s 10-speed automatic transmission powered the rear wheels, with four-wheel drive available on higher trims. The Z71 trim included off-road enhancements like a two-speed transfer case and hill descent control. The Tahoe could tow up to 3,810 kilograms and handle a payload of 831 kilograms. The new independent rear suspension, along with adaptive and air suspension options, significantly improved ride quality. The 5.3-litre V8 engine and 10-speed transmission provided ample power and a satisfying V8 rumble. Fuel efficiency was rated at 13.5 litres per 100 kilometres for 4WD models, with our test vehicle achieving 14.3 L/100 km.

The 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 produced 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a low torque peak enhancing acceleration. Front-wheel drive was standard on the Essence trim, while all-wheel drive was available on higher trims. The Enclave could tow up to 2,268 kilograms when properly equipped. The Avenir Technology Package, recommended for its premium-tuned suspension and automatic emergency braking, enhanced the driving experience. The Enclave’s suspension provided a smooth ride across various driving conditions, and the steering and brake response were satisfactory. Fuel efficiency was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres for FWD models, with our test vehicle achieving 11.1 L/100 km.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe benefited from a new independent rear suspension, improving passenger comfort and cargo space. The test vehicle featured heated power-adjustable front seats and a heated steering wheel. The power sliding storage console offered additional storage options. The second row could be configured with a bench seat or captain’s chairs, with the latter providing comfort and easy access to the third row. The third-row seat offered improved space, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo space measured 722 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,056 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,480 litres with all seats down.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering a spacious and quiet cabin. The Avenir trim featured a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with a massaging function, and front passengers enjoyed a 10-way power-adjustable seat. The centre console provided ample storage, and the seven-passenger seating configuration included second-row captain’s chairs and a third-row bench seat. The third-row seat offered commendable comfort, with easy access through the rear doors. Cargo space measured 668 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,642 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,764 litres with all seats down.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with enhanced computing power and cybersecurity protection. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and Chevrolet Connected Services. Navigation and Bose premium audio systems were available upgrades. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though some controls were hard to access. The test vehicle included a Rear Seat Media system, though we did not test its full capabilities. A 15-inch head-up display was available but not included in the test vehicle.

The 2021 Buick Enclave’s infotainment system met basic expectations, with quick response times and a simple user interface. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Upgrades included a premium sound system, navigation, and wireless charging. The Avenir’s 8-inch touchscreen was the largest available, and the 10-speaker Bose sound system was adequate but not exceptional. The rear camera mirror provided a live video view of what was behind the Enclave.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe included standard safety features like Teen Driver, rear-seat reminder, forward collision alert, and low-speed automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offered additional features like lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Tahoe’s safety systems worked as expected, though the pedestrian alert could be distracting. A surround-view camera was recommended for maneuvering the large SUV. Crash test ratings were not available at the time of review.

The 2021 Buick Enclave’s safety systems were limited, with some features restricted to higher trims. Standard features in Canada included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Driver Confidence Plus Package, standard on Premium and Avenir trims, added features like forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist. Adaptive cruise control was available only with the Avenir Technology Package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though frontal-impact protection rated four stars. The IIHS gave high marks, but a Marginal headlight rating prevented a Top Safety Pick accolade.