As more drivers make the switch to crossover SUVs, the competition continues to heat up. Almost all major automakers have gone all-in on SUVs. They’re filling their lineups with all kinds of options ranging from tiny versions based on subcompact platforms to massive old-school SUVs. In the middle, there is the mid-size three-row SUV, which has become one of the most popular segments with models such as the Buick Enclave and the Toyota Highlander. Here’s a look at each of these to help you choose the one that fits.
How Much Space Do You Need in Your SUV?
The Buick Enclave and the Toyota Highlander both have three rows of seats, but that’s where the similarities end. The Enclave comes with second-row captain’s chairs and room for seven people, while the Highlander has captain’s chairs but also offers a second-row bench seat if you need space for eight. Do you have tall friends and family? The Enclave has more headroom in all three rows, and once you get to the back, there’s over 97 cubic feet of cargo space if you fold down both back rows. The Highlander comes in close behind, with just over 84 cubic feet of
space.
The Technology You Want
We all want to stay connected when we walk out the door and get in our vehicle, and the Buick Enclave and Toyota Highlander have the tech features to make this happen. The base models have an 8-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system with a wireless version of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. When you want to connect to the internet, you can use the Wi-Fi hotspot in either model, and the Enclave even has wireless charging in its entry-level Essence.
You can get a wireless charging pad with the Highlander too. It comes in the top four trim levels. The next time you’re driving in unfamiliar territory, you can count on the navigation systems with turn-by-turn directions in both of these SUVs.
The Safety Systems You Can Count On
SUVs have come a long way in recent years. In the beginning, they were just basic transportation with more space than a sedan or hatchback, but now they have more features and equipment, including safety systems. The Enclave comes with a blind-spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning with automatic braking. It also has lane-keep assist to help make sure you stay right in your lane of travel.
The Highlander has these safety systems too. The Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite comes standard with every trim and even has adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, and a traffic sign reader.
Choose Your Three-Row SUV
The Buick Enclave and Toyota Highlander are two tough competitors in the midsize SUV market. Each one has features that you’ll love having on your everyday drive and others that will come in handy if you head out on a road trip.
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