Suv comparison guide: subaru forester vs. buick enclave – your essential read

In the competitive world of midsize SUVs, the Subaru Forester and the Buick Enclave stand out as compelling options for family-oriented drivers. While both vehicles offer spacious interiors, advanced safety features, and comfortable driving experiences, they also have distinct characteristics that set them apart. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Forester and the Buick Enclave, helping you make an informed decision about which SUV best aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

Performance and Capability

Engine Options and Power Output

The Subaru Forester offers a range of engine options, including a base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. For more power, the Forester XT trim features a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that generates 256 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.

The Buick Enclave, on the other hand, comes with a single engine option: a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for towing and hauling, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

Fuel Efficiency

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Subaru Forester has a slight edge over the Buick Enclave. The Forester’s base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the XT trim gets 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

The Buick Enclave, with its more powerful V6 engine, has slightly lower fuel economy ratings. It gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

All-Wheel Drive

All trims of the Subaru Forester come standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides excellent traction and handling in all weather conditions. The Buick Enclave, on the other hand, offers all-wheel drive as an optional feature on all trims.

Interior and Comfort

Space and Versatility

Both the Subaru Forester and the Buick Enclave offer spacious interiors with ample seating for up to seven passengers. The Forester has a slightly smaller cargo area than the Enclave, with 28.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 74.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Enclave, on the other hand, offers 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats and 97.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.

Interior Features and Amenities

The Subaru Forester and the Buick Enclave both come equipped with a range of interior features and amenities to enhance comfort and convenience. Standard features on both vehicles include heated front seats, a rearview camera, and a touchscreen infotainment system.

However, the Buick Enclave offers a more luxurious interior experience with available features such as heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bose premium audio system.

Safety and Reliability

Safety Features

Both the Subaru Forester and the Buick Enclave have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features on both vehicles include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

However, the Subaru Forester offers a few additional standard safety features that the Buick Enclave does not, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Reliability

Subaru has a reputation for reliability, and the Forester has consistently ranked well in reliability surveys. The Buick Enclave, on the other hand, has a slightly lower reliability rating than the Forester.

Price and Value

Starting Prices

The Subaru Forester has a lower starting price than the Buick Enclave. The base Forester starts at around $26,000, while the base Enclave starts at around $40,000.

Value Proposition

While the Buick Enclave has a higher starting price, it also offers a more luxurious interior and a more powerful engine. The Subaru Forester, on the other hand, offers a better value proposition for the price, with a more affordable starting price and a high level of standard features and safety equipment.

Which SUV is Right for You?

The Subaru Forester is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency, all-wheel drive capability, and a lower price point. It is also a great option for families who need a spacious and versatile vehicle with a strong safety record.

The Buick Enclave is a more luxurious and powerful SUV that is better suited for drivers who value a premium interior experience and a higher towing capacity. It is also a good choice for families who need a vehicle with more seating and cargo space.

Takeaways: Making the Right Choice for Your Driving Needs

Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Forester and the Buick Enclave depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a fuel-efficient, all-wheel drive SUV with a lower price point, the Subaru Forester is an excellent option. If you are looking for a more luxurious and powerful SUV with a higher towing capacity, the Buick Enclave is a better choice.

By carefully considering the factors discussed in this comparison, you can make an informed decision about which SUV is right for you and your family.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Which SUV has better fuel economy?

The Subaru Forester has slightly better fuel economy than the Buick Enclave.

Which SUV has more seating and cargo space?

The Buick Enclave has more seating and cargo space than the Subaru Forester.

Which SUV has a higher towing capacity?

The Buick Enclave has a higher towing capacity than the Subaru Forester.

Which SUV has a better safety rating?

Both the Subaru Forester and the Buick Enclave have received high safety ratings.

Which SUV has a lower starting price?

The Subaru Forester has a lower starting price than the Buick Enclave.