2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Buick Enclave

2021 Volvo XC90
2021 Volvo XC90
$49,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Buick Enclave
2022 Buick Enclave
$42,800MSRP
Overview
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2021 Volvo XC90
$49,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Buick Enclave
$42,800MSRP
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Overview
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CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Volvo XC90 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Buick Enclave scores 7.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Volvo XC90 is the better choice, offering a more refined interior, advanced safety features, and a variety of powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid.

Overview

MSRP

$49,000

MSRP

$42,800

Average price

$37,152

Average price

$30,437

Listings

593

Listings

656
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Premium interior materials
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Cramped third row
  • Sluggish performance
  • No USB-C ports
Pros
  • Quiet cabin
  • Great ride quality
  • Spacious
Cons
  • Poor value for money
  • Poor fuel economy

2021 Volvo XC90 Reviews Summary

Volvo may be known for sensible station wagons, but the XC90 SUV is the Swedish automaker’s de facto flagship. The current generation debuted design features, technology, and powertrains that have since found their way into most other Volvo models. Several years into the current-generation model’s lifecycle, the XC90 is no longer a trendsetter, but remains Volvo’s contender in the competitive midsize luxury SUV segment, with the automaker’s typical emphasis on safety features.

The current-generation XC90 launched for the 2016 model year, so most competitors—including the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class—have been updated or redesigned since then. The Cadillac XT6 and Lincoln Aviator didn’t even exist when this generation of XC90 launched.

A redesigned version is expected to arrive soon, so changes to the 2021 XC90 are minimal. All 2021 Volvo models are now limited to 112 mph for safety reasons and get Care Key, which lets owners limit the top speed before loaning the car out to a friend or family member. The XC90 also gets a handful of newly standard tech features, and some small cosmetic changes.

Volvo offers the XC90 in three trim levels—Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription—with three powertrain options: T5 and T6 gasoline engines, and the T8 plug-in hybrid. Our test car was a range-topping T8 Recharge Inscription, combining the top Inscription trim level with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which has the highest output of the three.

2022 Buick Enclave Reviews Summary

Buick's three-row SUV gets a welcome freshening for the 2022 model year. Updates include new front and rear styling, new wheel designs, and exterior lighting enhancements. Inside, there's a new steering wheel, a restyled center console with new shifter buttons, and revised seat trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto debut, and a new wireless phone charger is now available. But perhaps most importantly, the 2022 Enclave receives desperately needed standard driver-assistance and safety technology.
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Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 250 hp I4

Engine

3.6L 310 hp V6

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

250 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

310 hp @ 6800 rpm

MPG City

21

MPG City

18

MPG Highway

30

MPG Highway

26
2021 Volvo XC90
2021 Volvo XC90
$49,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Buick Enclave
2022 Buick Enclave
$42,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Volvo XC90
$49,000MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Buick Enclave
$42,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Volvo XC90 is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Buick Enclave scores 7.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2021 Volvo XC90 is the better choice, offering a more refined interior, advanced safety features, and a variety of powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid.

Overview
MSRP
$49,000
$42,800
Average price
$37,152
$30,437
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.7
4.6
Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10

Read full review

7.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Premium interior materials
  • Great safety ratings
Cons
  • Cramped third row
  • Sluggish performance
  • No USB-C ports
Pros
  • Quiet cabin
  • Great ride quality
  • Spacious
Cons
  • Poor value for money
  • Poor fuel economy
Summary

Volvo may be known for sensible station wagons, but the XC90 SUV is the Swedish automaker’s de facto flagship. The current generation debuted design features, technology, and powertrains that have since found their way into most other Volvo models. Several years into the current-generation model’s lifecycle, the XC90 is no longer a trendsetter, but remains Volvo’s contender in the competitive midsize luxury SUV segment, with the automaker’s typical emphasis on safety features.

The current-generation XC90 launched for the 2016 model year, so most competitors—including the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class—have been updated or redesigned since then. The Cadillac XT6 and Lincoln Aviator didn’t even exist when this generation of XC90 launched.

A redesigned version is expected to arrive soon, so changes to the 2021 XC90 are minimal. All 2021 Volvo models are now limited to 112 mph for safety reasons and get Care Key, which lets owners limit the top speed before loaning the car out to a friend or family member. The XC90 also gets a handful of newly standard tech features, and some small cosmetic changes.

Volvo offers the XC90 in three trim levels—Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription—with three powertrain options: T5 and T6 gasoline engines, and the T8 plug-in hybrid. Our test car was a range-topping T8 Recharge Inscription, combining the top Inscription trim level with the plug-in hybrid powertrain, which has the highest output of the three.

Buick's three-row SUV gets a welcome freshening for the 2022 model year. Updates include new front and rear styling, new wheel designs, and exterior lighting enhancements. Inside, there's a new steering wheel, a restyled center console with new shifter buttons, and revised seat trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto debut, and a new wireless phone charger is now available. But perhaps most importantly, the 2022 Enclave receives desperately needed standard driver-assistance and safety technology.
Video
No video found
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Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.0L 250 hp I4
3.6L 310 hp V6
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
7
7
Horsepower
250 hp @ 5500 rpm
310 hp @ 6800 rpm
MPG City
21
18
MPG Highway
30
26
Look and feel
2021 Volvo XC90
9/10
2022 Buick Enclave
8/10

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy. Known for its conservative styling, Volvo managed to infuse the XC90 with more character while retaining its recognizable features. The XC90's design included a boxy profile and a blunt front end with a rectangular grille, but with softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights featuring "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome trim and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the flashiest, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more basic looks, respectively. The XC90 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with other Volvo models, ensuring a cohesive design language across the brand. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism" with thoughtfully arranged, high-quality materials, including matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery. The Orrefors crystal shifter added a touch of luxury to the otherwise restrained interior.

The 2022 Buick Enclave represented a significant departure from Buick's traditionally conservative styling. Over the past 15 years, Buick transitioned from a sedan-heavy lineup to an all-SUV portfolio, reflecting market trends. The Enclave, introduced in 2008 and redesigned in 2018, played a crucial role in this transformation. For 2022, the Enclave received a mid-cycle refresh with new exterior styling elements, including a new grille, front and rear fascias, headlamps, taillamps, and wheel designs. The top-of-the-line Avenir trim featured unique styling cues and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave boasted a restyled center console with new push-button gears and upgraded materials. The Avenir trim offered climate-controlled front seats, heated second-row captain's chairs, and unique trim and seat stitching. Our test vehicle, an Enclave Avenir with the optional Technology package, featured Ebony perforated leather seats and a deep red Rich Garnet Metallic exterior, providing a premium look and feel.

Performance
2021 Volvo XC90
7/10
2022 Buick Enclave
8/10

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centered around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 model added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, also known as Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric assist, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. The T5 came standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive was optional on the T5 and standard on the T6 and T8. Despite the impressive power figures, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines. The XC90 Recharge offered three drive modes—Pure (all-electric), Hybrid, and Power—but Pure mode was only practical at low speeds with gentle acceleration. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and maintained a quiet cabin. Most XC90 models had a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity, except for the base FWD T5, which was rated at 4,000 pounds.

The 2022 Buick Enclave kept things simple with a single powertrain option: a 3.6-liter V6 engine with direct injection, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup produced 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The Enclave came standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The SUV's maximum towing capacity was 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Enclave provided a smooth and quiet ride, thanks to Buick's QuietTuning and active noise cancellation technology. Our test vehicle, equipped with the optional Avenir Technology package, featured a premium ride suspension and continuously variable real-time chassis damping, ensuring a comfortable ride on various terrains. The Enclave's powertrain was surprisingly responsive, offering good off-the-line acceleration despite its size. The nine-speed automatic transmission performed seamlessly, and the engine produced pleasant sounds under wide-open throttle. While the Enclave wasn't designed for off-road adventures, its AWD system and 7.5 inches of ground clearance made it capable of handling light off-road trails and wintry conditions.

Form and function
2021 Volvo XC90
6/10
2022 Buick Enclave
8/10

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, depending on the choice of second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat. Headroom and legroom in all three rows were about average for the segment, with the third row being a bit tight for adults. The seats in both the second and third rows felt hard and lacked support. An optional power moonroof extended across the first two rows, enhancing the interior's spacious feel. The XC90 featured standard four-zone climate control, with an optional filtration system to trap fine particulate matter. The front seats in the Inscription trim were 10-way power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated, with backrest massage, but the steering wheel was not power-adjustable. Storage space was limited, with a shallow center console storage bin and few storage options on the console. Cargo space for the T8 Recharge model was 11.2 cubic feet with all seats in place, 34.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and 64.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, placing it near the bottom of the segment. A hands-free power tailgate was available.

The 2022 Buick Enclave offered easy ingress and egress, with excellent visibility thanks to its large windshield and window openings. All Enclaves came standard with an eight-way power driver seat and six-way power front passenger seat, both heated and with power lumbar control. Premium and Avenir trims added four-way power lumbar with massage and second-row heated seats. The Enclave's spacious cabin provided ample headroom, legroom, hip room, and shoulder room for passengers in all three rows. The third row was comfortable for six-footers, and the standard second-row captain's chairs made access to the third row easy. The second-row seats also flipped and folded for added versatility. The restyled center console featured new push-button transmission gears and a covered compartment with two cupholders. The Enclave offered 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up, 57.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 97.4 cubic feet with both rows folded. Our test vehicle had power-folding third-row seats for added convenience.

Technology
2021 Volvo XC90
8/10
2022 Buick Enclave
6/10

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which emphasized simplicity and functionality. The XC90 came standard with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and a built-in WiFi hotspot. It also included two front USB-A ports and two rear USB-C ports. Optional features included a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system and a head-up display (HUD). The portrait-oriented touchscreen was user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation through menus. However, the amount of text and the typeface used made reading some menus difficult while driving. The wireless charging pad added for 2021 was too small for most phones, and the lack of front USB-C ports was a drawback for drivers with newer phones.

The 2022 Buick Enclave featured a standard 4.2-inch driver information center, with Premium and Avenir trims getting a larger, 8-inch reconfigurable version. The Essence trim came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as wireless phone charging. Premium and Avenir trims added navigation. The Enclave's infotainment system could pair up to 10 devices, with two smartphones active simultaneously. A built-in WiFi hotspot could handle up to four devices up to 50 feet away from the vehicle. The system had a familiar, easy-to-use interface, though some graphics looked dated. The Premium and Avenir trims featured a 10-speaker Bose audio system, which was superior to the standard six-speaker system but could use more power. Each Enclave came with a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM 360L and six USB ports—two in each row. Other standard features included a following-distance indicator, HD rear vision camera, and Teen Driver technology. Notable available features included adaptive cruise control, head-up display, rain-sensing wipers, hitch guidance with hitch view, a digital rear camera mirror, and HD surround vision.

Safety
2021 Volvo XC90
9/10
2022 Buick Enclave
7/10

The 2021 XC90 received the highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for non-hybrid models. It earned top “Good” scores in all IIHS crash tests and a “Superior” rating for front-crash prevention tech in vehicle-to-vehicle testing, with an “Advanced” rating in vehicle-to-pedestrian testing. Headlights and LATCH child-seat anchors received “Acceptable” ratings. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave all 2021 XC90 models a five-star overall safety rating, with five stars in frontal and side crash tests, and four stars in rollover testing. The XC90 offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, a driver-attention monitor, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and Volvo’s Pilot Assist driver aid. Pilot Assist combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centering, providing smooth and quick reactions to other vehicles, though it struggled with highway curves.

The 2022 Buick Enclave saw significant updates to its driver-assist and safety tech, with the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package becoming standard on all trims. This package included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane-change alert with blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, lane-keeping assistance with lane-departure warning, rear park assist, following-distance indicator, and automatic high-beam headlights. Other standard safety features included a Safety Alert driver's seat, a rear-seat reminder system, and an HD reversing camera. Premium trim added enhanced automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a surround-view camera, head-up display, and rear pedestrian alert. The Enclave received no false alarms during testing. The NHTSA had not published crash-test ratings for the 2022 Enclave at the time of writing, but it gave the Enclave four out of five stars for rollover resistance. The IIHS awarded the 2022 Enclave "Good" ratings in all but one crash test, where it received an "Acceptable" score.

Cost Effectiveness
2021 Volvo XC90
7/10
2022 Buick Enclave
5/10
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