2020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to impress with its rugged design and capability. Introduced in 2002 and redesigned for the 2010 model year, the GX received some design tweaks over the years, including the hourglass grille that became a signature of the Lexus lineup. While this grille was polarizing on other models, it suited the GX well. The vehicle's decade-old design was evident, especially in the cabin, which retained the large, chunky center console and big buttons typical of early 2010s Lexus styling. Despite this, the GX's rugged capability, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, made it a favorite among those who valued off-road prowess over modern aesthetics.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave aimed to recapture Buick's former glory with a modern twist. The Enclave was the largest of Buick's four SUVs, offering a spacious and comfortable ride for up to seven passengers. The Avenir trim, in particular, added a touch of luxury with its unique grille, extra brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir featured a minimalist design with soft, perforated leather seats, a wood-and-leather steering wheel, and a stylish center console. The Enclave's cabin was designed for comfort and quiet, with features like Active Noise Cancellation and laminated windshield glass ensuring a serene driving experience.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. This power was sent through a 6-speed automatic transmission to a standard 4-wheel drive system. While these figures might not impress compared to modern V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 provided a satisfying swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's light yet direct steering, combined with its self-leveling air suspension, offered a smooth and composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its various 4WD modes and adjustable suspension. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an average of 16.3 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine, generating 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and offered a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The V6's low torque peak provided strong acceleration, and the Enclave drove like a smaller SUV despite its size. The Avenir Technology Package added a premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping, enhancing the ride quality. The Enclave's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg in combined driving, and it could travel up to 460 miles on a full tank. The Enclave's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs on the Premium and Luxury trims, with power-folding third-row seats standard on the Luxury trim. While the captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row, getting adults into the third row was challenging. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 64.7 cubic feet available with all rear seats folded. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous. However, the separately opening rear window/hatch was a convenient feature for quick access to the cargo area.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering ample space for six or seven passengers. The Avenir trim featured 12-way power-adjustable front seats with a basic massaging function, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Enclave's third-row seat was genuinely useful, with easy access through the large rear doors and between the captain's chairs. The Enclave provided 23.6 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 58 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 97.6 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age with a last-generation Lexus Enform setup. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it featured a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls. This simple and straightforward interface was a refreshing change from more complex modern systems.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations but fell short in some areas. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. However, the 8-inch touchscreen was the largest available, and the Enclave lacked integration with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The 10-speaker Bose sound system was also less impressive compared to competitors. The available rear camera mirror was a neat feature, providing a live video view of what was behind the Enclave.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera were also available. The GX's great visibility, thanks to its high seating position and large windows, added to its safety.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety systems were less comprehensive. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were only available on higher trims, and the Driver Confidence Plus Package, which included forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams, was standard only on the Premium and Avenir trims. Adaptive cruise control was available only on the Avenir with the optional Technology Package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but had a four-star rating for frontal-impact protection. The IIHS gave it high marks, but its Marginal headlight performance rating prevented it from earning a Top Safety Pick accolade.