2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, had received several updates by 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. This generation of the X3 was a significant refinement, offering the exterior and interior presence of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while its interior featured the cold, mechanical styling typical of BMW, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics.

The 2021 Buick Enclave, on the other hand, represented a return to form for Buick, which had struggled during the Malaise Era of automotive design. The Enclave was the largest of Buick's four SUVs, offering a spacious and luxurious experience. The Avenir trim, in particular, added a unique grille pattern, extra brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels, enhancing its premium appearance. Inside, the Enclave Avenir featured organic forms, a minimalist approach to controls, and soft, perforated leather seats, though the wood accents were not genuine.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i had all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of 3.5 hours using a 240-volt charger or nearly 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. For those seeking performance, the M40i offered a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six, and the X3 M boasted 473 horsepower.

The 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine across all trims, generating 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque at 2,800 rpm. This engine was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options. The Enclave's V6 provided strong acceleration, and the SUV handled like a smaller vehicle despite its size. The Avenir Technology Package added a premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping and automatic emergency braking at highway speeds. The Enclave achieved an EPA-rated 21 mpg in combined driving, with a range of up to 460 miles on a full tank.

The 2021 BMW X3 provided up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available. The X3 offered ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, with a functional dashboard featuring real buttons and dials to complement the touchscreen.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering spacious and quiet accommodations for six or seven passengers. The Avenir trim included 12-way power-adjustable front seats with massaging functions, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel. The Enclave's third-row seat was genuinely useful, with easy access through large rear doors. Cargo space measured 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 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, which was user-friendly and offered both touch and dial controls. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto available as an option. Additional options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations but fell short in screen size and high-end audio components. The Avenir trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Upgrades included a premium sound system, navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a surround-view camera system. The Enclave also offered a rear camera mirror, providing a live video feed of what was behind the vehicle.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety features were more limited, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert available only on higher trims. The Driver Confidence Plus Package, standard on Premium and Avenir trims, included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlights, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking were available only with the Avenir Technology Package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, though its headlight performance was rated Marginal.