2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to balance innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh pattern, complemented by the "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array. The SUV's design was both elegant and bold, with big wheel arches and a rear that echoed the front's styling. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious experience with a sleek, uncluttered dashboard, real wood and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display, creating a sophisticated and high-tech environment.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave was a nod to Buick's past glory, offering a large, impressive presence with a focus on comfort and style. The Enclave's design was enhanced in the Avenir trim with unique grille patterns and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir featured a minimalist approach with organic forms and polished accents. The interior was luxurious, with soft leather seats, a wood-and-leather steering wheel, and a focus on simplicity, although the electronic transmission shifter required some getting used to. The Enclave's design was both practical and elegant, appealing to those who valued comfort and a touch of luxury.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The GV80's performance was enhanced by an eight-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. The 2.5T models had a self-leveling rear suspension option, while the 3.5T models featured an electronically-controlled suspension with road preview. The GV80's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg city/25 mpg highway for the 2.5T RWD and 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway for the 3.5T AWD.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine generating 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Enclave offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options. Its performance was characterized by strong acceleration and a smooth ride, thanks to the premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping. The Enclave's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined, with a range of up to 460 miles on a full tank. The Enclave's driving dynamics were impressive for its size, providing a comfortable and composed ride.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was a sophisticated vehicle with a focus on technology and luxury. Its interior featured a rotary gear selector, a circular multimedia controller, and capacitive touch buttons for the HVAC system. The GV80 offered comfortable seating for up to seven passengers, with power second-row seats and a power-folding third row available on certain models. The interior was spacious and well-appointed, with luxury features such as power window shades and three-zone climate control.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering spacious seating for up to seven passengers. The Avenir trim featured power-adjustable front seats with massage functions, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel. The Enclave's interior was designed for comfort, with a stylish center console and ample storage space. The third-row seat was genuinely useful, and the Enclave offered impressive cargo space with up to 97.6 cubic feet available with the second-row seats folded down.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a state-of-the-art infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD screen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and a digital key function for Android users. The GV80 also included Genesis Connected Services, a head-up display, and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster. The audio system was highlighted by a Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround system with 21 speakers.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. However, it lacked advanced features like smart home integration and high-end audio components. The Enclave offered a rear camera mirror and a Teen Driver function, but its technology offerings were less competitive compared to other premium SUVs.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, adaptive cruise control with machine learning, and highway-driving assist. It also offered advanced collision-avoidance systems and remote smart parking assist. While it had not yet been rated by safety organizations, Genesis aimed for top safety ratings.

The 2021 Buick Enclave offered a range of safety features, but many were restricted to higher trim levels. The Driver Confidence Plus Package included essential safety systems, but adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking were only available on the Avenir trim with an additional package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, but its safety offerings were less comprehensive compared to competitors.