2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that managed to blend size with sophistication. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was designed to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity kept it in the lineup. The GLS, with its three rows and plush interior, became a family-friendly alternative to the likes of the Navigator and Escalade. The transition from GL to GLS during its second generation marked a shift towards a more refined design. Despite its large size, the GLS appeared less bulky than its predecessors, thanks to softened angles and clever design elements. Inside, it boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric approach. The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63, each offering a range of luxurious features and optional packages to enhance comfort and style.

The 2022 Buick Enclave, on the other hand, represented a significant shift for Buick, which had traditionally favoured conservative styling. Over the past 15 years, Buick had transformed its lineup from sedans to SUVs, reflecting broader market trends. The Enclave, introduced in 2008, revitalized the brand with its spacious three-row design. By 2022, it had undergone a mid-cycle refresh, featuring updated exterior styling and a more upscale interior. The top-tier Avenir trim offered unique design elements and premium features, including climate-controlled front seats and heated second-row captain's chairs. The Enclave's interior was spacious, with ample room for passengers in all three rows, and the restyled centre console added a modern touch. The Enclave Avenir, with its optional Technology package, provided a comfortable and serene ride, thanks to advanced suspension and noise-cancellation technologies.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options. The entry-level GLS 450 was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 280 km/h. The GLS's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes allowed for a smooth and agile driving experience, defying its size and weight.

In contrast, the 2022 Buick Enclave kept things simple with a single powertrain option: a 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup produced 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, providing adequate performance for the Enclave's size. The Enclave's all-wheel drive system was standard in Canada, and it offered a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. The Enclave excelled in delivering a quiet and comfortable ride, thanks to its premium ride suspension and real-time chassis damping. Buick's QuietTuning and active noise cancellation technologies further enhanced the serene cabin environment. Despite its size, the Enclave's powertrain was surprisingly responsive, offering good acceleration and a pleasant engine note.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided a spacious interior with three rows of seating. The first and second rows offered ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for full-size adults, a rarity among three-row SUVs. The GLS's cargo space was generous, with 355 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and a total of 2,400 litres with both rows down. The power-folding third row and numerous storage compartments added to its practicality.

The 2022 Buick Enclave also excelled in interior space, offering comfortable seating for six adults across its three rows. The second-row captain's chairs facilitated easy access to the third row, which provided sufficient room for taller passengers. The Enclave's cargo capacity was impressive, with 668 litres behind the third row, 1,634 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,758 litres with both rows down. The restyled centre console and push-button transmission added a modern touch, though the potential for spills on the electronic shifter was a concern.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, characterized by a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. The MBUX system included a voice-control feature, activated by saying "Hey Mercedes," allowing for complex commands. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, offering customizable displays controlled via touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2022 Buick Enclave came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as wireless phone charging. The Premium and Avenir trims added navigation and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The Enclave's infotainment system supported pairing up to 10 devices, with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Standard safety features included a following-distance indicator, HD rear vision camera, and Teen Driver technology. The Avenir trim offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and a head-up display.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety options included lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

For 2022, Buick made significant updates to the Enclave's safety tech, standardizing the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package across all trims. This included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-change alert, and more. The Premium trim added enhanced automatic emergency braking and a surround-view camera. The Enclave received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" score in the updated side-impact test.