Comparison - Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class 350 4MATIC 2018 - vs - Buick Enclave Avenir 2018

The 2018 Buick Enclave hones its appeal with beautiful style, much-improved handling, and no-nonsense technology.

Pros
Expressive sheet metal
Spare and elegant cockpit
Good third-row space
Much-improved handling
Still rides smoothly

Cons
Base seats are cloth
All-wheel drive is part-time
Fuel economy still just average
Best safety features not pervasive
Pricey Avenir trim level is more a feature-unlock code

The Avenir name is something new entirely. It's a new sub-brand that Buick is introducing on the Enclave that adds another layer of luxury onto the standard model. It will sit above the Premium model that was previously the most feature-rich trim level offered on the Enclave. Standard features on the Enclave Avenir include a unique mesh grille, 20-inch wheels and exclusive interior colors and materials. The individual features aren't striking on their own, but taken together they do make this Enclave look a step above anything offered on its predecessor.
Apart from the Avenir upgrades, the Enclave follows much the same formula as the previous model. It's a spacious three-row crossover with a standard V6 and a new nine-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers 302 horsepower to either the front wheels or all four wheels on all-wheel-drive models. Towing capacity is up to 5,000 pounds and we expect overall mileage to improve slightly.