2021 Buick Enclave vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Buick Enclave marked a significant return to form for the brand, reminiscent of its glory days with its large, shiny, and impressive design. After a period of decline, Buick found its footing by offering globally-sourced and rebadged GM vehicles, but it was the American-made Enclave that truly connected the brand to its past while catering to the modern SUV market. The Enclave, available in Preferred, Essence, Premium, and Avenir trims, ranged in price from just over $41,000 to just under $55,000. It competed with both mainstream and luxury three-row SUVs, boasting a stylish exterior and a luxurious interior, especially in the Avenir trim, which featured unique design elements and high-quality materials.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its long-standing second generation, which began in 2008. Despite its age, the Sequoia maintained a timeless design with modestly sized grilles and elegant wheel arches. Its substantial dimensions, including a 77-inch height and a 205.1-inch length, gave it a commanding presence. Inside, the Sequoia's design felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch driver information screen. However, the interior was built to last, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability. The Nightshade Special Edition added a contemporary touch with darkened exterior trim and 20-inch alloy wheels.

The 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It offered both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. The Enclave's V6 engine provided strong acceleration, and its nine-speed automatic transmission delivered smooth shifts. The SUV's ride and handling were enhanced by the Avenir Technology Package, which included a premium-tuned suspension and automatic emergency braking. The Enclave achieved an EPA-rated 21 mpg in combined driving, with a range of up to 460 miles on a full tank.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, generating 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and offered a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck-based construction contributed to its impressive towing capacity of 7,400 pounds and a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds. However, its fuel economy lagged behind, with ratings of 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/15 mpg combined for RWD models. Despite its weight, the Sequoia provided a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities, especially in the TRD Pro model.

The 2021 Buick Enclave offered a spacious and comfortable interior, accommodating up to seven passengers. Its QuietTuning technology, along with Active Noise Cancellation and laminated windshield glass, ensured a serene cabin environment. The Avenir trim featured luxurious amenities, including power-adjustable and massaging front seats, heated and ventilated leather seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Enclave provided ample cargo space, with 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97.6 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort with roomy seating across all three rows and three-zone climate control. The SUV featured a power moonroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and ample storage options, including a spacious center console and door pockets. The Sequoia's cargo area offered 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 120.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. An auxiliary 12-volt outlet in the cargo compartment added convenience for outdoor activities.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. However, its 8-inch touchscreen and lack of smart home digital assistant integration left it trailing behind competitors. The Avenir trim offered a premium sound system, navigation, and a surround-view camera system. A unique feature was the rear camera mirror, providing a live video view of the rear.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch driver information screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with WiFi connectivity and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Limited trim added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, while a premium audio package offered 14 JBL speakers. Despite its dated technology, the Sequoia featured LED exterior lighting and a rear backup camera.

The 2021 Buick Enclave offered a range of safety features, but many were restricted to higher trim levels. The Driver Confidence Plus Package, standard on Premium and Avenir trims, included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though its frontal-impact protection rated four stars. The IIHS awarded high marks, but a Marginal headlight performance rating prevented a Top Safety Pick accolade.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. However, it came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The Sequoia also featured the STAR safety system, with stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. A full complement of airbags and other safety features ensured passenger protection.