The 2026 Buick Enclave and Toyota Grand Highlander are major competitors, because both deliver a unique blend of upscale cruising and sporty adventure. But which of these three-row midsize SUVs is right for you? Read our side-by-side comparison to find out!
Key Takeaways
- Buick's midsize SUV comes standard with the longest list of high-end features!
- Both models impress with their roomy cabins and smooth performance, but the Enclave has the edge when it comes to seating comfort.
- Shopping for speed? The Enclave is the more powerful SUV by a long shot!
- Compared to the 2026 Enclave (from $46,400*), the 2026 Grand Highlander (from $41,860*) starts at the lowest price.
Standard Luxury: 2026 Buick Enclave
When it comes to luxury, what are the differences between the 2026 Enclave and Grand Highlander? These SUVs actually have a lot in common, but the Enclave ultimately comes standard with a longer list of upscale features. These include a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a massive, 30-inch instrument panel and infotainment display! And while both SUVs come standard with heated front seats, the Enclave also includes a heated steering wheel.
Like the entry-level Enclave, the base Grand Highlander delivers modern treats like three-zone automatic climate control, wireless phone charging, and a hands-free power liftgate. However, the standard infotainment setup isn't nearly as impressive, featuring a digital gauge cluster and separate 8-inch infotainment touchscreen. But while the Grand Highlander doesn't include as many standard luxuries, you always pay more for extra items (including a heated steering wheel and bigger, 12.3-inch touchscreen).
Cruising Comfort: 2026 Buick Enclave
With generous passenger space and seating adjustments, the Enclave provides maximum interior comfort. And when we say this SUV is roomy, we mean it! Tall passengers fit comfortably in all three rows, and that's not something you can say for every model in this segment -- especially when it comes to third-row seating!
Then there's the Toyota Grand Highlander, which isn't quite as friendly to taller types. The front seats and steering wheel could be improved with a few extra adjustments. Then again, we give this midsize SUV high marks for its generous seat cushioning and lasting support! And just like the Enclave, the Grand Highlander does a good job soaking up bumps in the road for a smooth, comfortable ride.
Strong Performance: 2026 Buick Enclave
Adventurous families in the Roseville, California, area have plenty of mountains to climb, redwoods to photograph, and coasts to explore. But you've got to get there first -- and that's where the Enclave comes in! With 328 horses, Buick's midsize SUV maximizes the power at your command. Available all-wheel drive comes in handy on-road and off, maximizing traction on both slippery surfaces and sandy trails. Of the pair, only the Enclave offers semiautonomous driving, compliments of the Super Cruise system.
While the Grand Highlander is pretty powerful, pumping out 265 horses, it can't quite keep up with the competition. On the other hand, this Toyota SUV does come standard with sporty all-wheel drive, enhancing traction when the going gets soft (or slippery). And while the Grand Highlander can't steer itself, it goes pound-for-pound with the Enclave's towing capabilities, toting a camper or boat trailer weighing up to 5,000 pounds!
Enclave vs. Grand Highlander: Performance
| Model |
2026 Buick Enclave |
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander |
| Engine |
2.5L turbo four-cylinder (328 hp, 326 lb-ft) |
2.4L turbo four-cylinder (265 hp, |
| Transmission |
Eight-speed automatic |
Eight-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain |
FWD or optional AWD |
AWD |
| Max Trailering |
5,000 lbs |
5,000 lbs |
| Max EPA Ratings |
22 mpg combined (20 city/25 highway) |
24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway) |
| Options |
Super Cruise hands-free driving |
|
Best Price: 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander
Shopping for the best deal? Right off the bat, the 2026 Grand Highlander (starting at $41,860*) can help you conserve your savings. Of course, the 2026 Enclave (from $46,400*) doesn't cost all that much more, and -- as we've seen -- its extra power and luxury features are well worth it!
*MSRP as of 3/2/20. Subject to change.
Your Stylish New Midsize SUV
Overall, the 2026 Buick Enclave finishes first! This three-row midsize SUV gives you everything you want in a sporty North California cruiser, from plush comfort to hill-climbing power. Want to experience the latest Enclave for yourself? Swing by Reliable Buick GMC in Roseville to give it a go!