What To Know
- In terms of handling, the Highlander offers a more composed and agile driving experience, thanks to its responsive steering and well-tuned suspension.
- The Highlander excels in fuel efficiency, safety features, and spaciousness, making it a great option for families and those seeking a practical and reliable SUV.
- The Enclave, on the other hand, offers a more luxurious experience, a powerful engine, and a comfortable ride, making….
Choosing the right SUV can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two popular contenders like the Toyota Highlander and the Buick Enclave. Both offer spacious interiors, comfortable rides, and a range of features, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each vehicle, helping you decide which one best aligns with your lifestyle and priorities.
Performance and Handling: Power Under the Hood
The Toyota Highlander boasts a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. This robust engine provides ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The Highlander also offers an optional hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for enhanced fuel efficiency.
The Buick Enclave, on the other hand, relies on a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. While it offers slightly more power than the Highlander’s standard engine, it lacks the hybrid option. Both SUVs come with a nine-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth gear changes and responsive acceleration.
In terms of handling, the Highlander offers a more composed and agile driving experience, thanks to its responsive steering and well-tuned suspension. The Enclave, while comfortable, feels slightly less nimble and more focused on a plush ride.
Interior Comfort and Features: A Haven for Passengers
Both the Highlander and the Enclave excel in providing spacious and comfortable cabins for passengers. The Highlander offers ample legroom and headroom in all three rows, making it a great option for families. The Enclave, while slightly less spacious in the third row, still offers a comfortable ride for passengers.
Both SUVs come equipped with an array of standard features, including touchscreen infotainment systems, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and multiple USB ports. The Highlander stands out with its optional driver-assistance technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Enclave also offers a suite of safety features, but its availability may vary depending on the trim level.
Fuel Efficiency: Saving Money at the Pump
The Toyota Highlander’s hybrid powertrain takes the lead in fuel efficiency. The Highlander Hybrid achieves a combined fuel economy rating of 36 mpg, significantly surpassing the Enclave’s 20 mpg combined rating. While the standard Highlander’s fuel economy is still respectable at 21 mpg combined, it falls short of the hybrid model.
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid is the clear winner. However, if fuel economy is not a primary concern, the Enclave’s powerful engine offers a more engaging driving experience.
Cargo Space: Accommodating Your Needs
Both SUVs offer ample cargo space, making them suitable for families and adventurers alike. The Highlander comes with a maximum cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet, while the Enclave offers a slightly smaller 97.6 cubic feet. Both SUVs feature folding rear seats, allowing you to adjust the cargo space to fit your needs.
The Highlander’s slightly larger cargo area and optional roof rails make it a better choice for those frequently carrying bulky items or embarking on camping trips. However, the Enclave’s spacious interior and low cargo floor make it easier to load and unload heavy items.
Price and Value: Balancing Features and Budget
The Toyota Highlander starts at a slightly lower price point than the Buick Enclave. However, the Enclave offers a more luxurious interior and a more powerful engine as standard features. Both SUVs offer various trim levels, allowing you to customize the features and price to fit your budget.
Ultimately, the best value for your money depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize fuel efficiency and driver-assistance technologies, the Highlander might be the better choice. However, if you prefer a luxurious interior and more powerful engine, the Enclave could be a better fit.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for You
Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the Buick Enclave ultimately comes down to individual preferences and priorities. The Highlander excels in fuel efficiency, safety features, and spaciousness, making it a great option for families and those seeking a practical and reliable SUV. The Enclave, on the other hand, offers a more luxurious experience, a powerful engine, and a comfortable ride, making it a suitable choice for those prioritizing comfort and performance.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Toyota Highlander and Buick Enclave are excellent choices, it’s always wise to explore other options in the mid-size SUV segment. Consider vehicles like the Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and Ford Explorer, which offer unique features and strengths that may better align with your specific needs.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers slightly better ground clearance and optional all-wheel drive, making it a better choice for light off-roading. The Buick Enclave is primarily designed for on-road driving.
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Toyota is renowned for its reliability, and the Highlander consistently ranks high in reliability surveys. The Buick Enclave also has a decent reputation for reliability, but it may not be as reliable as the Highlander.
Q: Which SUV has better resale value?
A: Toyota vehicles generally hold their value better than Buick vehicles. The Highlander is expected to have a higher resale value than the Enclave.
Q: Which SUV is better for a growing family?
A: Both SUVs offer ample space for families, but the Highlander’s larger cargo area and optional third-row seating make it a better choice for growing families.
Q: Which SUV is more luxurious?
A: The Buick Enclave offers a more luxurious interior with premium materials and a more refined driving experience. However, the Highlander’s optional features and technology can enhance its overall luxury.
