2022 Lexus GX vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Buick Enclave represented a significant step forward for the brand, harking back to its glory days with a large, impressive SUV that appealed to modern consumer preferences. Buick had struggled through a challenging period, but the Enclave helped reestablish its reputation by offering a spacious and luxurious vehicle. The Enclave was the largest of Buick's SUV lineup, standing out with its elegant design, especially in the Avenir trim, which featured a unique grille, brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir boasted a sophisticated interior with organic forms, minimalist controls, and luxurious leather, although the wood trim was not genuine. Despite a somewhat complicated electronic transmission shifter, the Enclave's interior was otherwise simple and user-friendly.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a more traditional and rugged appearance, appealing to those who appreciated a classic SUV design. The Black Line Special Edition, in particular, offered a striking look with its Black Onyx color and minimal chrome, creating a bold presence. However, the GX's design was reminiscent of older models, with only minor updates to keep it current. Inside, the GX provided a high-quality cabin with comfortable seating and a focus on physical controls, though some switchgear felt outdated. The Black Line Special Edition featured NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim, adding a touch of modernity. Despite its age, the GX's interior remained quiet and refined, with a focus on comfort and practicality.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, offered a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The Enclave's performance was notable for its strong acceleration and smooth handling, aided by the low torque peak of the V6 engine. The SUV's ride quality was enhanced by the Avenir Technology Package, which included a premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping and automatic emergency braking. The Enclave's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg in combined driving, with a range of up to 460 miles on a full tank.

The 2022 Lexus GX, on the other hand, featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, providing a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. The GX's performance was characterized by its satisfying engine note and off-road capabilities, thanks to the Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS). However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA estimate of 16 mpg in combined driving. Despite its age, the GX remained a capable and stable vehicle, though its steering and brake response could be improved.

The 2021 Buick Enclave offered a spacious and comfortable interior, accommodating up to seven passengers with its standard seven-passenger seating configuration. The Avenir trim featured luxurious amenities such as heated and ventilated leather seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and a stylish center console. The Enclave's third-row seat was notably roomy, providing ample space for passengers, while the cargo area offered 23.6 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expanding to 97.6 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded down.

In comparison, the 2022 Lexus GX provided a more compact interior, with a focus on practicality and comfort. The GX's seating position was elevated, offering excellent visibility, but the rear seat access was challenging due to narrow door openings. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with only 11.6 cubic feet available behind it. When the third-row seat was stowed, the GX offered 46.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 64.7 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded down. The GX's tailgate design further complicated loading, as it swung open to the side, limiting access in tight spaces.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM 360L satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with quick response times and logical controls. However, the Enclave's technology offerings fell short in terms of screen size, smart home integration, and high-end audio components. The Avenir trim included a 10-speaker Bose sound system, but it lacked the sophistication of competitors' systems. A notable feature was the rear camera mirror, providing a live video view of the area behind the vehicle.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering a significant improvement over previous models. The system included standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The GX's infotainment display allowed for a dual-screen view, enhancing usability. However, the placement of stereo controls below off-roading controls was less intuitive. The GX also featured Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras, adding to its technological appeal.

The 2021 Buick Enclave offered a range of safety features, but many were restricted to higher trim levels. The Driver Confidence Plus Package, available on Premium and Avenir trims, included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and parking sensors. However, adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking were 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.

The 2022 Lexus GX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors. Despite its age, the GX's safety features contributed to a favorable driving experience, though no crash-test ratings were available for this model.