2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to premium quality, offering captivating style and continual product improvements. This model year saw enhancements such as more standard equipment, refined cabin instrumentation, and noise reduction modifications. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD versions gained an off-road traction assistance feature. With prices ranging from $25,190 to $37,155, the CX-5 was available in various trims, including the luxurious Signature trim, which featured premium Nappa leather and real wood accents. Despite its upscale appeal, the interior's lack of contrast in the Caturra Brown leather was a minor drawback.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave harked back to Buick's glory days with its large, impressive design. As the largest of Buick's SUV lineup, the Enclave offered a spacious and comfortable ride, with trims ranging from Preferred to Avenir, priced between $41,000 and $55,000. The Avenir trim added a unique grille, brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels, enhancing its premium appearance. Inside, the Enclave Avenir featured a minimalist design with soft leather and polished accents, though the wood was not genuine. The electronic transmission shifter required some acclimation, but overall, the Enclave provided a serene and comfortable driving experience.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with AWD optional. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims featured a turbocharged engine, delivering up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Despite its 3,825-pound curb weight, the CX-5 Signature accelerated confidently, though the turbo engine was less fuel-efficient, averaging 22.1 mpg in testing. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions detracted from its sporty feel.

The 2021 Buick Enclave housed a 3.6-liter V6 engine generating 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Available in both FWD and AWD, the Enclave offered strong acceleration and a maximum tow rating of 5,000 pounds. The Avenir Technology Package, with its premium-tuned suspension and automatic emergency braking, enhanced the driving experience. The Enclave's suspension excelled across various driving conditions, and its fuel economy averaged 21.2 mpg. The steering and brake response were satisfactory, though quicker steering would have been appreciated.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior, while stylish and upscale, was more cramped compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The CX-5's focus on luxury was evident in its classy gauges and metallic accents. Higher trims offered features like dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and Nappa leather. However, rear legroom was limited, and the air conditioning struggled in hot weather. Cargo space measured 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Buick Enclave excelled in interior space, comfortably seating six to seven passengers. Its QuietTuning technology, along with Active Noise Cancellation and laminated glass, ensured a serene cabin. The Avenir trim featured power-adjustable, massaging front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a stylish center console. The Enclave's third-row seat was spacious, and access was easy through large rear doors. Cargo space was generous, with 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97.6 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which, while upscale, required acclimation. The system included a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and more, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available on higher trims. The Grand Touring trim added an 8-inch touchscreen and a Bose sound system, while the Signature trim included navigation and a surround-view camera. Interaction options included the touchscreen, console controls, and voice recognition, though the latter was not user-friendly.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations but lacked in screen size and smart home integration. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a WiFi hotspot, with upgrades like a premium sound system and navigation. The Avenir's 8-inch touchscreen was the largest available, and the Bose sound system was underwhelming compared to competitors. A notable feature was the rear camera mirror, providing a live video feed of the rear view.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. It also had LED headlights and rain-sensing wipers, with adaptive headlights available on higher trims. The CX-5 earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with high marks in individual testing parameters.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety features were limited to higher trims, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert available on the Essence trim. The Driver Confidence Plus Package, standard on Premium and Avenir trims, included features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Adaptive cruise control was only available with the Avenir Technology Package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal-impact protection was rated four stars.