2025 Buick Enclave vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with various trim packages and equipment options available. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint and a comprehensive set of equipment packages, priced at $88,075, including destination charges. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, enhancing the interior's modernity while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2025 Buick Enclave presented a bold and sharp design, reminiscent of the Envista, with slim DRLs, a large angular grille, and a high beltline. While the side profile appeared somewhat generic, the overall look was more assertive than its predecessor. The Enclave featured 20-inch wheels on the base and Sport Touring trims, with the Avenir trim boasting 22-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave offered a modern and premium feel, with a floating center console and a large curved display. The Sport Touring test car had perforated leatherette seats with contrast piping, adding a touch of luxury. However, the limited sunroof availability was a drawback, with the panoramic power sunroof only available on higher trims. Despite this, the Enclave's interior was well-received, offering a near-luxury experience.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured significant upgrades, including a new electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission and a more energy-dense lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of 19.2 kilowatt-hours. The battery's maximum AC charging rate was doubled to 7.4 kilowatts. The xDrive50e offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and achieved 22 mpg in combined driving. It produced 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV was praised for its performance, with a recommendation for a Level 2 home charging station to maximize electric driving. The adaptive damping air suspension effectively masked the vehicle's weight, and the 21-inch wheels did not compromise ride quality. The X5 excelled in handling, with quick steering and excellent visibility. During testing, the PHEV achieved an average fuel economy of 38.8 mpg over a 95.5-mile drive.

The 2025 Buick Enclave was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with AWD reducing fuel economy from 23 to 21 mpg combined. The Enclave could tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Active Noise Cancellation targeted road noise, while engine noise cancellation was standard only on the top trim. The turbo engine was noted for its loudness and tendency to rev, with a recommendation for the engine noise cancellation upgrade. The Enclave was classified as a mid-size crossover but drove like a full-size vehicle, with noticeable bulk and loose steering at slower speeds. Despite this, the driving dynamics were deemed acceptable for its class.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with room for five people in two rows of seats. The cargo area measured 33.1 cubic feet, expanding to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to reach deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, which was indistinguishable from genuine leather. Sport seats were standard, with the Climate Comfort Package adding 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, four-zone automatic climate control, and heated rear seats. The panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, providing a great view, and side window sunshades were available for added comfort. The X5 no longer offered an optional third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2025 Buick Enclave provided eight-way power adjustability for the driver's seat and six-way for the front passenger's seat. Captain's chairs in the second row allowed for a seven-person maximum capacity. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with the Avenir trim adding heated second-row seats and front seat ventilation. Tri-zone climate control was standard, with middle-row passengers able to manage their own temperature. The top trim featured one-touch power folding and sliding for the second-row seats, with power-folding third-row seats available. The AutoSense liftgate opened to 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 57.1 cubic feet with the third row folded and 97.5 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, connected services, and over-the-air software updates. The cloud-based navigation system and Intelligent Personal Assistant were notable features, although the latter had issues with voice recognition. The optional Harman Kardon sound system provided excellent audio quality. The available head-up display effectively conveyed data, and the augmented video function for navigation was a useful addition.

The 2025 Buick Enclave showcased its premium positioning with a 30-inch ultrawide touchscreen integrating the infotainment display and digital gauge cluster. While seamless in most cases, smartphone projection interrupted the cohesive display. A 12-speaker Bose Premium audio system was standard, with the Avenir trim offering a 16-speaker Bose Performance system. Wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, along with Google Built-In for native apps. Wi-Fi hotspot capability and wired charging for all rows were also included.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, requiring deliberate activation. It performed well in dense or light traffic but had issues in moderate traffic, causing irritation. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked effectively, although there were instances of errant braking. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2025 Buick Enclave emphasized safety with standard features like blind-zone steering assist, intersection automatic emergency braking, traffic-sign recognition, lane-keep assist, and lane-departure warning. HD Surround Vision offered seven camera views, expandable to nine. Adaptive cruise control was standard, with a head-up display optional. GM's Teen Driver technology was included, and Super Cruise was available on all trims. The 2025 Enclave had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2024 model received favorable ratings, with some areas for improvement.