2021 Buick Enclave vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE presented a refined exterior with softened lines and reduced scalloping, contributing to a lower drag coefficient of .29, which Mercedes claimed made it a class leader. The front end underwent a significant transformation, enhancing its overall appeal. Inside, the GLE offered increased headroom and legroom due to a 3.1-inch wheelbase extension, allowing for an optional third row, although this feature was not available in the test model. The interior was luxurious, with options like black leather upholstery and a fragrance system, though the latter was not well-received. The vehicle's paint quality was marred by an orange-peel effect, which was disappointing given the premium price.

The 2021 Buick Enclave, on the other hand, was a nod to Buick's past grandeur, offering a large, impressive SUV that stood out among its smaller siblings. The Enclave's design was elegant, especially in the Avenir trim, which featured a unique grille and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir boasted a minimalist yet upscale interior with soft leather and polished accents, though the wood trim was not genuine. The electronic transmission shifter was initially fussy but became intuitive with use. The Enclave's spaciousness and comfort were highlights, making it a strong contender in the premium SUV market.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While it offered sufficient power at speed, it struggled with turbo lag from a stop, likely due to its nearly 5,000-pound weight. The 9-speed automatic transmission was decent but not as smooth as competitors. The GLE 350's fuel economy was commendable, achieving 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined, though it lagged behind the BMW X5 in power and refinement.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, delivering strong acceleration thanks to its low torque peak. The nine-speed automatic transmission performed flawlessly, and the Enclave's ride was smooth and composed, aided by the Avenir Technology Package's premium-tuned suspension. The Enclave's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined, with a range of up to 460 miles on a full tank, making it a practical choice for long journeys.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE benefited from an extended wheelbase, providing ample space in the second row and offering between 33.3 and 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind it, expanding to 79.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The interior was dominated by dual 12.3-inch screens, setting a new standard for dash design. The seats were comfortable, with a "Seat Kinetics" system to prevent discomfort on long drives. However, the steering wheel's positioning was problematic, often obstructing the view of the screens.

The 2021 Buick Enclave excelled in interior space, comfortably seating six or seven passengers. Its QuietTuning technology, along with Active Noise Cancellation and laminated glass, ensured a serene cabin environment. The Avenir trim featured power-adjustable, massaging front seats, and a stylish center console with ample storage. The third-row seat was genuinely useful, and the Enclave offered 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind it, expanding to 97.6 cubic feet with seats folded, making it one of the most spacious in its class.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE showcased the MBUX infotainment system, which, despite its complexity, was a delight to use once familiar. The system included gesture control and a comprehensive HUD, though the voice control feature was less effective in the test model. The GLE was equipped for future technology integration, but some features were distracting.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations with quick response times and a user-friendly interface. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. However, the 8-inch touchscreen was smaller than competitors, and the sound system was underwhelming. The rear camera mirror was a standout feature, providing a live video view of the rear, enhancing visibility.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE lacked current safety ratings but offered a comprehensive suite of autonomous safety features, including Attention Assist and Seat Kinetics. However, the system struggled at high speeds, with lane-keeping assist proving frustrating and unpredictable.

The 2021 Buick Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it fell short in frontal-impact protection. Safety features were limited to higher trims, with adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking available only in the Avenir trim. The Enclave lacked advanced driver assistance technologies, making it less competitive in safety.