2025 Buick Enclave vs 2026 Ford Explorer

The Enclave kicks off its third generation, benefitting from Buick’s slick new design language and a host of feature updates. The three-row SUV gets a full redesign, a new powertrain, and tons of tech and safety features that are standard across all three trim levels.

Verdict: Like any vehicle, the new Enclave has its strengths and weaknesses. We think Buick was strategic in its approach to these, focusing its efforts on the areas Enclave shoppers most likely prioritize.

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and it continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but it lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.