2021 Acura RDX vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the optional A-Spec Package, was a stylish SUV. Its design changes were subtle yet effective, conveying a sporty look without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided making the RDX look like an off-roader, focusing instead on its daily driving and road-tripping capabilities. The A-Spec Package added sporty interior features like front sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and unique gauges, although the red markings on a brushed silver background were hard to read.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave harkened back to Buick's glory days with its big, shiny, and impressive design. The Enclave was the largest of Buick's SUVs, offering a premium look, especially in the Avenir trim with its unique grille, extra brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir featured a minimalist design with organic forms, polished accents, and soft leather seats, though the wood trim was not genuine. The Enclave's simplicity extended to its controls, except for the fussy electronic transmission shifter.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm. It came with a 10-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with the option for the SH-AWD system, which significantly improved handling. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes, adjusting powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The A-Spec models had exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and larger tires, enhancing handling. However, the A-Spec lacked the adaptive dampers of the Advance Package, leading to some body motion on uneven roads.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine generating 310 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 266 pound-feet of torque at 2,800 rpm. It came with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The Enclave's acceleration was strong, and it handled like a smaller SUV despite its size. The Avenir Technology Package added a premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping and automatic emergency braking. The Enclave's ride and handling were impressive across various driving conditions, and it achieved an average fuel economy of 21.2 mpg.

The 2021 Acura RDX offered remarkable passenger and cargo space for a compact SUV. The front seats were comfortable and adjustable, with the A-Spec trim adding heated and ventilated sport seats. However, the rear seats lacked leg support and had an uncomfortable recline angle. The cargo area measured 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 58.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, with additional storage compartments under the cargo floor. Despite the official numbers, the cargo space was accommodating for most tasks.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering roomy and comfortable seating for six or seven people. The Avenir trim featured power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats with a basic massaging function. The second-row captain's chairs and third-row bench seat provided ample space, with easy access through the large rear doors. The Enclave offered 23.6 cubic feet of cargo 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 down.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console instead of a touchscreen. While it mirrored the screen and was an improvement over similar systems, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system. The RDX also offered smartphone projection, voice recognition, and Key by Amazon In-Car Delivery.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations with quick response, voice recognition, and a simple user interface. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and USB ports in all three rows. However, the 8-inch touchscreen was the largest available, and the Enclave lacked smart home digital assistant integration and high-end audio components. The Avenir trim featured a rear camera mirror, providing a live video view of what was behind the SUV.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety features were limited to higher trim levels. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the Essence trim, while the Driver Confidence Plus Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist, was standard on Premium and Avenir trims. Adaptive cruise control was only available with the Avenir Technology Package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for frontal-impact protection, and high marks from the IIHS, though it did not earn a Top Safety Pick due to Marginal headlight performance.