Buick Enclave vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was available in XLE and Limited trims, offering both single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with two battery sizes to choose from. Models equipped with the larger battery were priced higher but delivered enhanced power, performance, and range, with prices ranging from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The vehicle's exterior design was improved with body-color trim, and the interior boasted a cleaner dashboard and center console, along with fabric seats that had an upscale pattern. The 14-inch center touchscreen integrated climate control, and while the digital driver display was criticized for its placement and readability, the overall interior quality was elevated.

The 2026 Buick Enclave shared its underpinnings with other General Motors vehicles but distinguished itself with a unique personality and entry-level luxury positioning. Its exterior featured graceful lines, a swooping hood, and narrow accent lights, with a prominent grille that varied in finish depending on the trim. The Enclave's design was likened to a well-fitting gray suit, emphasizing quiet refinement over excitement. Inside, the Enclave offered a classy horizontal dashboard with a modern curved digital display, and materials quality was superior to its Chevrolet Traverse counterpart. However, some driver ergonomics were off, with a low-mounted dashboard creating an unusual seating impression. The Enclave's cabin was compared favorably to other entry-level luxury brands, with the top Avenir trim adding premium features.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of power and performance options. The XLE FWD model with a single electric motor and a 57.7-kWh battery pack delivered 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. Upgrading to the 74.7-kWh battery increased horsepower to 224 and extended the range to 314 miles. Dual-motor models with the larger battery produced 338 horsepower, with varying ranges and efficiency ratings depending on the trim. The bZ's charging capabilities included compatibility with Tesla Superchargers and a CCS adapter for versatile charging options. The vehicle's performance was tested in different conditions, revealing favorable efficiency results, though it lacked one-pedal driving capability. The bZ was noted for its agreeable around-town performance, but its handling on winding roads was less impressive due to tire limitations and lifeless steering.

The 2026 Buick Enclave was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 328 horsepower and 326 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Enclave's acceleration to 60 mph was average for the class, but the transmission response and engine noise were less inspiring. The brakes were predictable and confidence-inspiring, while the suspension prioritized ride quality over handling. The Enclave's performance was adequate, with a focus on comfort, and it offered a respectable 5,000-pound towing capacity with an optional trailering package. The vehicle's handling in mountainous terrain required manual shifting for optimal performance, and while the cabin remained quiet at highway speeds, the Enclave's power and handling were not standout features.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a skateboard-style EV platform with 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making it easy to enter and exit. The front seats offered standard height adjustment and eight-way power adjustment, providing comfort and support. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage options, including a large bin under the center armrest and a sizable tray beneath the center console. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed generous legroom, though foot space was limited. The bZ offered 27.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear liftgate, with additional underfloor storage and a maximum cargo capacity of 56.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2026 Buick Enclave came standard with second-row captain's chairs, limiting passenger capacity to seven but providing a central pathway to the third row. The middle-row seats offered ample space for taller passengers, with standard tri-zone automatic climate control and USB-C charge ports. The third-row seats accommodated adult-sized passengers, though thigh support was limited. The Enclave's cargo capacity was impressive, with 22.9 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 97.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The Power package added power-folding third-row seatbacks and a hands-free power liftgate, enhancing convenience.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The driver display was criticized for its placement and readability, while the infotainment system was generally user-friendly but lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with various connected service plans available. The Drive Connect system powered the native navigation and voice assistant, which performed well in testing.

The 2026 Buick Enclave boasted a 30-inch curved digital display housing both the instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The system ran on a Google Built-in operating system with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system received praise for its graphics and responsiveness, with physical buttons for climate controls. Voice commands were handled by an Amazon Alexa system, and the standard Bose audio system provided decent sound quality. The Power package added a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included a suite of safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist added subtle braking and steering inputs for added safety. The bZ Limited trim offered additional features like Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park Assist. The bZ received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS, with high marks for front-crash avoidance but lower ratings for headlights and frontal-impact crash tests.

The 2026 Buick Enclave earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with top scores in all crashworthiness evaluations. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. The optional Power package added a digital rearview mirror and GM's SuperCruise, a hands-free automated highway driving system. SuperCruise was praised for its effectiveness in reducing driver fatigue on long trips.