enclave vs. lexus rx 350

enclave vs. Lexus RX 350
After a redesign last year, the popular 5-passenger Lexus RX 350 enters the 2011 model year with more paint colors and a new brake override system. Two RX models are offered: the V6-gas-powered RX 350 and the hybrid 450h. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available. The RX 350 lacks many premium features that are included on the Buick. RX 350 upgrades and options are expensive. The RX 350s redesign last year added subtle enhancements in styling, power and technology. The well-executed interior features a sophisticated cockpit and upgraded in-vehicle electronics. Under the hood, the 275 hp V6 and 6-speed automatic transmission are regarded as competent performers. The RX 350 is known for smooth, compliant, but uninspired handling. Despite last years new rear suspension and noise reduction technologies, reviewers have found surprising wind and road noise in the RX 350s cabin.
Enclave CXL vs. Lexus RX 350 FWD
Point The RX 350 leads, and other crossovers keep trying to catch up. Its elegant, comfortable and luxurious. The RX 350 is the perfect blend of power, a gorgeous interior and exceptional quality. Thats why it remains one of the topselling luxury crossovers and the choice for discerning customers. Plus, Lexus knows how to treat and care for owners. That goes a long way in creating a hassle-free ownership experience. Counterpoint Drivers who routinely need passenger and cargo flexibility will find that the RX 350 doesnt fit their needs for luxury or flexibility. Enclave gives you both. Enclave is stunning. The RX 350 and its jellybean profile are less modern. Enclaves 7- or 8-passenger seating and large, flexible cargo area are ideal for active lifestyles. The RX 350 just doesnt measure up. The RX 350 offers luxury, but its pricey. Luxury comes standard on Enclave CXL with leather seats, heated front seats, memory, remote vehicle start, a power liftgate, rear park assist, a rearview camera and Xenon HID headlamps. Rear-seat entertainment on the RX 350 requires a $5615 Navigation Package. On Enclave, it costs about half and doesnt require navigation. Enclave comes with standard Turn-by-Turn Navigation. The RX 350 offers a similar feature but requires an expensive navigation option. The 8-passenger Enclave uses regular fuel, has more power, more torque and greater towing capacity. The smaller, less powerful 5-passenger RX 350 needs premium fuel. The RX 350 has composed handling, but its less than exceptional and subject to body roll. Enclaves larger wheels, longer wheelbase, wider front and rear tracks and sophisticated rear suspension offer more dynamic response. As for playing catch up, Buick didlong ago. Buick and Lexus tied for a top three ranking in the 2010 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study.
2011 buick Sales Consultant competitive Comparison Reference Guide

enclave: 1-1

enclave vs. acura mdx

enclave vs. Acura MDX

Following a facelift last year, there are few changes for the 2011 MDX. The 7-passenger MDX has a reputation for impressive power, nimble handling and a nicely appointed interior. The 2011 MDX is offered in one trim with several option packages. The jury is still out on the updates that were added for 2010. Despite efforts to simplify the complicated center stack, too many controls and buttons remain a trouble spot for the MDX. Another chink in the MDX armor is its cramped, child-sized third row. Speaking of armor, Acuras controversial front-end styling still rears its polarizing shield-like head. It hasnt been a home run. Reviews for under-the-skin MDX mechanicals are more positive. Sport sedan handling and a standard all-wheel drive system (Super-Handling All Wheel Drive) are considered MDX highlights. But even with a standard 300 hp V6, many customers will find it difficult to get past their first impression of the MDX and its front end.

Enclave CXL vs. Acura MDX AWD
Point Acura took a great crossover and made it even greater. A new 6-speed automatic transmission, reworked interior and softened styling give the MDX the edge. Its fun to drive with excellent handling and power to spare. And, even if the third row is a little small, the MDX still has plenty going for itincluding a lot of standard luxury, quality, and the excellent engineering of Honda and Acura. The MDX has the competitive edge. Counterpoint Theres a difference between having an edge and being edgy. Good points on the Acura MDX are overshadowed by its looks, confusing controls and space constraints. These are concessions MDX owners must rationalize. On Enclave, styling, intuitive controls and comfort in all three rows arent compromised. Enclave consistently earns excellent reviews for its beautiful design and refined interior. It adapts to passenger and cargo needs better than the MDX with more cargo area and occupant comfort for up to eight adults. Enclaves third row is easy to access. But using the tiny MDX third row is challengingits second row seats dont travel. Enclaves SmartSlide second row seats move, adding extra leg room and cargo flexibility. MDX lacks Enclave CXLs refinement and standard factory-installed features like luggage rack side rails, remote vehicle start, real wood trim and rear park assist. Enclave offers premium appointments you cant get on the MDX including a sunroof and skylight combination and captains chairs. Enclave has better fuel economy, and unlike the MDX, uses regular gas. Enclaves crisp handling provides excellent ride quality. Its longer wheelbase, bigger wheels and front and rear vented disc brakes give it excellent road manners. Some drivers may find MDX ride quality harsh. OnStar gives Enclave safety, security and peace of mind the MDX cant match.

enclave: 1-2

enclave vs. lincoln mkt

enclave vs. Lincoln MKT

Introduced last year, the 7-passenger Lincoln MKT is carryover for 2011. The MKT debuted to good reviews for its impressive combination of power, handling, comfort, interior refinement and safety technologies. But styling is where the MKT stumbles. Kinder reviews call the MKTs polarizing front end daring and controversial. Detractors call it bucktoothed, oddly proportioned, and toothy shark. Its appearance will be hard for some people to ignore. Like its cousin the Ford Flex, the MKT is based on the Ford Taurus platform. Two MKT trims are offered: a base model with a 268 hp V6 and a 355 hp twin-turbocharged V6. The base MKT comes well equipped with standard ventilated front seats, tri-zone climate control, power liftgate, rearview camera, Fords SYNC system, articulating headlamps and a fixed skylight panel. Options include a refrigerated second row center console, tail gate third row seat, blind spot vision aids and advanced safety features.

Enclave CXL vs. Lincoln MKT FWD
Point The MKT is an awesome vehicle with plenty of power and a lot of standard luxury. It comes fully loaded and offers innovative safety features. You can also get an optional 355 hp V6 engine thats powerful and fuel efficient. Theres so much to like about the MKT: a standard skylight, seating flexibility, luxury, exceptional handling, even a tail gate third row seat. And, with high-tech in-vehicle communication systems like SYNC, the MKT is ahead of the curve versus the competition. Counterpoint For the most part, the Lincoln MKT is a well-rounded premium crossover, but three key shortcomings cant be ignored: odd styling, limited passenger and cargo flexibility and value. The MKTs MSRP puts it in luxury territory. But do you get all the bells and whistles for the extra cost? Not really. The MKT looks odd compared to Enclaves stunning, tasteful exterior. The MKT offers 7-passenger seating, but Enclave goes one better with available 8-passenger seating. Enclave has more comfort with significantly more room in its third row. Enclaves first row has more comfort too with greater hip and shoulder room. Although the MKT can be reconfigured for cargo needs, Enclave has much more cargo area behind each seat. Enclaves standard roof rack side rails and under-floor storage also give it more flexibility than the Lincoln MKT. Enclave out-powers the MKT and its standard V6 by 20 hp. And, while both vehicles produce similar amounts of torque, Enclave hits its stride at lower rpm for faster, more responsive acceleration. Although the MKT offers a 355 hp V6 engine, it shoots the MKTs MSRP up to just under $50,000. The FWD Enclave has a better highway fuel economy than the MKT. Enclave has standard OnStar Emergency Crash Response. It automatically contacts help if the air bags deploy. Fords SYNC system requires that a properly paired and powered cell phone be in the vehicle in order to call for help after a crash. Which system would you rather depend on?

enclave: 1-3

enclave competitive comparison chart
STYLING, COMFORT & CONVENIENCE Leather-appointed front seats Heated front seats Ventilated/cooled front seats Power driver seat w/ power lumbar Driver seat memory Power front passenger seat 2nd row fore/aft travel Flat-folding 2nd/3rd row seats 2nd row seats 3rd row seats HVAC Sunroof w/ skylight panel Luggage rack side rails Remote Vehicle Starter System Keyless access/Keyless start Power liftgate Under-floor storage Tilt/telescoping steering column Rear park assist Rear camera AC power outlet Satellite radio Standard audio USB port DVD entertainment system Standard navigation aid Navigation Bluetooth interface Power heated OSRV mirrors Cargo volume, max., behind 1st/2nd/3rd (cu. ft.) Seating capacity, max. Head room, 1st/2nd/3rd (in.) Leg room, 1st/2nd/3rd (in.) Shoulder room, 1st/2nd/3rd (in.) Hip room, 1st/2nd/3rd (in.) POWER & PERFORMANCE Engine Horsepower @ rpm Torque (lb.-ft.) @ rpm Engine (A) Horsepower @ rpm Torque (lb.-ft.) @ rpm 3.6L VVT DI DOHC V@ @ 3400 3.5L DOHC V6 w/ Dual VVT-i 275 @ @ 4700 3.7L SOHC VTEC V@ @ 4500 3.7L DOHC V@ @ 4250 3.5L EcoBoost V@ @ 15005250 S S A 8-way S 4-way S S (2nd & 3rd) A A A 10-way A 10-way S (w/ recline) S (2nd) S S A 10-way S 8-way S (3rd) S S S; Rear (A) 12-way S 12-way S (2nd & 3rd) 60/40 split-folding; Bucket (A) 50/50 bench Tri-zone auto. S (Skylight); Sunroof (A) A (DIO) S S S (Power) S S S S (110V) S (Sirius; 6 mos.) 10 speakers, AM/FM/ CD/MP3, aux. jack S A (Dual screen) A (Voice, touch-screen) S S (w/ turn signals) 75.9/39.6/17.40.1/39.0/33.5 41.3/41.8/33.0 58.6/58.1/49.1 55.7/55.9/40.BUICK ENCLAVE CXL FWD 2011 LEXUS RX 350 FWD 2010 ACURA MDX AWD 2011 LINCOLN MKT FWD

Captains chairs; 40/20/40 split-folding 60/40 split-folding bench 60/40 bench (A) 60/40 bench Tri-zone auto. A (w/ power sunshade) S (Chrome) S S S S; Power (A) S S A (115V) S (XM; 3 mos.) 6 speakers, AM/FM/CD/MP3, aux. jack A A (Single screen)/A (Dual screen LPO) S (Turn-by-Turn) A (Voice, touch-screen) S S (w/ turn signals) 115.3/65.9/23.40.4/39.0/37.2 41.3/36.9/33.2 62.0/61.4/57.4 57.4/57.0/48.3 Dual-zone auto. A (Sunroof only) S A (DIO) S A S S (Power) A A A; Side Camera (A) A (120V) S (XM; 3 mos.) 9 speakers, AM/FM/MP3, 6-disc CD changer, aux. jack A A (Dual screen) A (Voice, mouse) S S (w/ turn signals) 80.3/40.0/ 5 39.1/37.7/ 43.1/36.8/ 58.0/57.6/ 55.6/54.5/ Requires optional nav. system 50/50 bench Tri-zone auto. S (Sunroof only) A (DIO) A (DIO) S S S (Power) A (DIO) A (DIO) A A (115V) S (XM; 3 mos.) 8 speakers, AM/FM/MP3, 6-disc CD changer, aux. jack A A (Single screen) A (Voice, mouse) S S (w/ turn signal and tilt feature) 83.5/42.9/15.39.2/38.6/35.8 41.2/38.7/28.7 61.6/61.5/57.1 59.0/59.1/42.0
Wood & leather-wrapped steering wheel S (Mahogany)

enclave: 1-4

2011 BUICK ENCLAVE CXL FWD POWER & PERFORMANCE (continued) 17/24 (FWD); 18/25 (FWD); 16/21 (AWD) Fuel economy, city/hwy (mpg) 16/22 (AWD) 18/24 (AWD) Fuel capacity (gal.) Recommended fuel Transmission Towing, max. (lbs.)* RIDE & HANDLING Front suspension Rear suspension Suspension options Drivetrain Steering Aluminum wheels Tires Wheelbase (in.) Track, front/rear (in.) Bumper-to-bumper warranty Powertrain warranty Roadside assistance Standard courtesy transportation Rust-through warranty Complimentary maintenance QuietTuning or equivalent OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics (or equivalent) SAFETY & SECURITY Telematics: Emergency Response Assistance Daytime Running Lamps Xenon HID headlamps Articulating headlamps Front Passenger Sensing System Dual-stage frontal air bags Front-seat knee bolsters/air bags Seat-mounted side-impact air bags Head-curtain air bags 3-point safety belts all seats Stability control w/ traction control Tire Pressure Monitor RKE, immobilizer and theft deterrent system
* Requires available Trailering Provisions or equipment

2011 LEXUS RX 350 FWD

2010 ACURA MDX AWD
2011 LINCOLN MKT FWD 17/23 (FWD); 16/22 (AWD); 16/21 (AWD 3.5L) 18.6 Regular 6-speed auto. (Paddle Shift Activation) 4500 Ind. MacPherson strut Ind. multi-link FWD; AWD (A) Power hydraulic rackand-pinion; Electric (A) Vented/Vented 19"; 20" (A) P235/5R19; P255/45R20 (A) 117.9 65.4/65.3 4/50,000 6/70,000 6/70,000 5/unlimited 4/50,000 Added NVH measures S (Vehicle Health Report) S (SYNC 911 Assist feature) S S S S S S S S (w/ Stability Roll Control) S S
22.0 Regular 6-speed auto. (Driver Shift Control) 4500 Ind. strut Ind. linked H arm FWD; AWD (A) Power variable-effort hydraulic rack-and-pinion Vented/Vented 19"; 20" (A) P255/60R19; P255/55R20 (A) 118.9 67.3/67.1 4/50,000 5/100,000 5/100,000 5/100,000 6/100,000 S S

19.2 Premium 6-speed auto. (w/ Manual Shift) 3500 Ind. MacPherson strut Ind. double-wishbone A (Sport-tuned) FWD; AWD (A) Speed-sensing electric power rack-and-pinion Vented/Solid 18"; 19" (A) 235/60R18; 235/55VR19 (A) 107.9 64.2/63.8 4/50,000 6/70,000 4/unlimited 6/unlimited Added NVH measures
21.0 Premium 6-speed auto. (Sequential SportShift) 5000 Ind. MacPherson strut Ind. multi-link A (Active Damper System) AWD Speed-sensitive power hydraulic rack-and-pinion Vented/Solid 18"; 19" (A) P255/55R18; P255/50R19 (A) 108.3 67.7/67.5 4/50,000 6/70,000 4/50,000 5/unlimited Added NVH measures S (AcuraLink)
4-wheel disc ABS brakes, front/rear
QUALITY, RELIABILITY & DURABILITY (years/miles)
S (6-mos. Directions S (1-yr. Safety Connect) & Connections) S S A S S S S S S A A S S S (Air bags) S (Front and rear seats) S S S S ; Self-leveling (A) S S S (Bolsters) S S S
S (w/ Roll-Over S S Mitigation) S S S S S S

S = Standard

A = Available

= Not available

DIO = Dealer-installed option

enclave: 1-5