2017 Buick Enclave vs. Ford Explorer

Drivers across the Emmaus, Allentown, and Bethlehem area are taking note of Buick as a powerful competitor in the three-row crossover sector. How does it stand up against the Ford Explorer when it comes to performance, options and utility? Check out this direct head-to-head challenge between the 2017 Buick Enclave vs 2017 Ford Explorer to discover which one holds up the best from the team at Kelly Buick GMC. Let’s get started.

Buick Safety vs Ford Safety

When it comes to safety, both the 2017 Buick Enclave and the 2017 Ford Explorer are outstanding picks with advanced safety technologies, like crash warning and mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and a range of high-end technology features. The 2017 Buick Enclave, however, has earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It gives you parking sensors, a rearview camera and comes standard with OnStar and automatic crash notification, roadside assistance, emergency button, stolen vehicle location, active theft intervention and remote unlock features.
The Ford Explorer also offers a great range of safety features, but only available in select trims at a higher price, putting the Buick just slightly ahead of the curve. Either truck you choose, however, is going to make you feel as safe as one can be on the roads.

Features and Options

Both the 2017 Buick Enclave and the 2017 Ford Explorer give you a great suite of innovative features. However, the basic level of the Explorer is just that: basic. You’ll need to step up to the XLT level to get the range of technology features and options you get with the entry-level Buick Enclave . These standard features include automatic xenon headlights, power liftgate, heated side mirrors, remote start, parking sensors, power driver and passenger seats, 4G LTE hotspot, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, the Buick IntelliLink system with touchscreen display, 3 USB ports, satellite radio and audio jack.

Buick vs Ford: Performance

At its base level, a 3.6-liter V6 engine for the 2017 Buick Enclave gives you 288 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission with standard front wheel drive. It can tow up to 4,500 lbs when properly equipped. The base Ford Explorer engine is roughly equivalent, with a 3.5-liter V6 which delivers 290 horsepower via six-speed transmission. Both get around the same in gas mileage as well.

Interior Comfort

The 2017 Buick Enclave interior cabin is very well appointed. It’s plush, comfortable, with plenty of space for driver and passengers in all three rows. The soft-touch, padded vinyl dashboard gives it a truly upscale vibe. The 6.5-inch IntelliLink touchscreen is the centerpiece of the dash, easy to reach with an impressive interface that doesn’t take your eyes off the road. The menus are intuitive and fast.
Similarly, the 2017 Ford Explorer offers a well-appointed and comfortable interior. However, it doesn’t have the kind of high-end luxury trappings that are offered by the Buick. While it’s still a great family vehicle that offers certain levels of comfort, Buick has the edge if you want a luxurious experience.

Take the 2017 Buick Enclave for a Spin

In our opinion, between the 2017 Buick Enclave and the 2017 Ford Explorer, the Buick Enclave comes out on top in the race between crossover SUVs. Drivers in the Emmaus, Allentown, and Bethlehem are already making the switch to performance and reliability in the Buick Enclave. Stop into Kelly Buick GMC and check out our Buick showroom. Schedule a test drive today!