2021 Buick Enclave vs 2020 Jeep Compass

The 2020 Jeep Compass was a handsome SUV, reflecting the refined side of the Jeep brand akin to the Grand Cherokee. It was available in four core trim levels: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk, with various packages and special edition trim upgrades to enhance the lineup. The base model started at $22,280, while the fully loaded Compass Limited with AWD and numerous options could reach $39,755. Despite its upscale features, the Compass had some cost-cutting measures that detracted from its overall appeal, such as low-rent glossy plastic pieces and flimsy-feeling parts. However, it was a significant improvement over the original Compass model.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was a large, impressive SUV that harkened back to Buick's glory days while catering to modern consumer preferences for SUVs. It was the largest of Buick's four SUV offerings, with trims ranging from Preferred to Avenir, priced between $41,000 and $55,000. The Enclave boasted a premium appearance, especially in the Avenir trim, which featured a unique grille, extra brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir offered a luxurious experience with soft leather, a minimalist design, and polished accents, although the wood trim was not genuine. The Enclave's simplicity extended to its controls, with the exception of a fussy electronic transmission shifter.

The 2020 Jeep Compass was powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, known as the Tigershark, producing 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Despite these figures, the Compass's performance was underwhelming, with sluggish acceleration and a lack of passing power. The nine-speed automatic transmission often shifted harshly, and the vehicle averaged 23.1 mpg, falling short of the EPA's 25 mpg combined rating. The Compass's suspension managed body roll well but allowed too much vertical motion and impact harshness. While it wasn't particularly enjoyable on pavement, the Compass excelled off-road, especially in Trailhawk trim with its enhanced capabilities.

The 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine generating 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided strong acceleration and a smooth driving experience, despite the Enclave's large size. The test vehicle, equipped with FWD, demonstrated momentary tire spin before traction control intervened. The Avenir Technology Package, which included a premium-tuned suspension and automatic emergency braking, enhanced the Enclave's performance. The suspension delivered a comfortable ride across various driving conditions, and the Enclave achieved an average of 21.2 mpg, slightly above the EPA's 21 mpg combined rating.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered a new Luxury Seat Group option, adding premium leather, ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable front passenger seat. The Compass's back seat was spacious, with air conditioning vents, a USB charging port, and a power outlet for rear passengers. Cargo space measured 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, though the optional spare tire and subwoofer reduced available space. Interior storage was limited, with awkwardly positioned cupholders.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, providing ample space for six or seven passengers. The Avenir trim featured power-adjustable, massaging front seats, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a heated steering wheel. The center console offered storage and concealed cupholders. The Enclave's third-row seat was spacious, with easy access through large rear doors. Cargo space was generous, with 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 58 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 97.6 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2020 Jeep Compass featured an excellent Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE WiFi connectivity. The system was intuitive, though some features were buried in menus. Voice recognition worked well, and drivers could use voice commands for stereo and climate controls. The test vehicle included a navigation system and an Alpine premium audio system.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations but fell short in some areas. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Avenir trim offered an 8-inch touchscreen, a premium sound system, navigation, and a surround-view camera. However, the screen size and lack of smart home integration were drawbacks. The rear camera mirror was a useful feature, providing a live video view of the rear.

The 2020 Jeep Compass offered optional safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. These systems performed adequately, though adaptive cruise control could be overly sensitive. The Compass received Good ratings from the IIHS, except for headlight performance, and mixed ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety features were limited to higher trims. The Driver Confidence Plus Package, standard on Premium and Avenir trims, included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Adaptive cruise control was available only with the Avenir Technology Package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star frontal-impact rating, and high marks from the IIHS, except for headlight performance.