2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2026 Buick Enclave

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite its modern updates, including a new grille and subtle bumper changes, the G-Class maintained its traditional features like a flat hood and prominent corner lights. The vehicle's robust doors and latches added to its unique character, making it stand out in the luxury SUV market. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim, with wheel options ranging from 18 to 22 inches. The interior was opulent, featuring a sci-fi aesthetic with ambient lighting and metallic trim, while AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Buick Enclave, sharing its underpinnings with other GM vehicles, presented a distinct personality with graceful exterior lines and an inviting cabin. Its streamlined look was accentuated by a swooping hood and narrow accent lights, while the oversized grille tied it to its smaller siblings. The Enclave's side and rear design was subtle, likened to a well-fitting grey suit. Inside, the Enclave featured a classy horizontal dashboard with a modern curved digital display. Materials were of higher quality than its GM counterparts, though some ergonomic issues were noted. The Enclave's cabin was competitive among entry-level luxury brands, with the top Avenir trim offering premium features.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine with 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, producing 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models included a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions with permanent 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Buick Enclave was powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada, the Enclave accelerated to 100 km/h in just over seven seconds. The transmission response was somewhat dull, and the engine noise was noticeable under hard acceleration. The Enclave's suspension prioritized ride quality, smoothing out road imperfections, though it was less composed in curves compared to rivals like the Acura MDX. The top Avenir trim offered adaptive dampers for improved handling and comfort.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its traditional design impacted cargo space, with 640 litres available behind the rear seats. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, slightly less than some competitors. Despite its size, the G-Class provided good visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2026 Buick Enclave featured standard second-row captain's chairs, limiting passenger capacity to seven but providing a central pathway to the third row. The middle-row seats offered ample space for taller passengers, while the third row accommodated adults up to 5'10". Cargo capacity was generous, with 648 litres behind the third row and up to 2,761 litres with seats folded. The Enclave's interior offered ample storage, with a hands-free power liftgate standard on all models.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included dual 12.3-inch screens, an off-road menu, and a "Transparent Hood" feature. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were notable MBUX features, along with a Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment.

The 2026 Buick Enclave boasted a 30-inch curved digital display with a Google Built-in operating system. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The infotainment system was praised for its graphics and response times, with physical climate controls for convenience. The Power package added a head-up display and GM's Super Cruise for hands-free highway driving.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. Expected standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The G-Class also featured Mercedes' Pre-Safe system and new features like route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centring.

The 2026 Buick Enclave received a "Good" rating from IIHS and was named a Top Safety Pick+. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. The optional Power package added a digital rearview mirror and Super Cruise for hands-free highway driving.