The 2026 Acura MDX and 2026 Buick Enclave are 3-row midsize luxury SUVs that are similarly priced, with the Enclave’s entry point being just under $50,000, and the MDX just over that amount.
Let’s see how the MDX and Enclave compare.
2026 Acura MDX
The 2026 Acura MDX represents the flagship SUV for the brand, and it brings both practical features and luxurious amenities in spades. The MDX receives only minor changes in 2026, having undergone a mid-cycle refresh in 2025 that included an upgraded infotainment system and Google built-in technology.
Acura MDX Highlights
Engine choices: The 2026 Acura MDX comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 with 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and it delivers a smooth, engaging driving experience. The Type S model revs up that performance with a 355-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. There are seven drive modes, including Snow, which adjusts traction and performance to adapt to changing weather conditions.
Excellent audio: The MDX offers two audio systems by Bang & Olufsen, one with 19 speakers and the other with 31 on the Type S. Even better, all but the base model is blessed with the B&O sound.
Features galore: The base MDX comes with plenty of standard luxury and tech equipment, including a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, a manually-adjustable second row with a removable center seat, Google built-in, and Amazon Alexa integration. There are six available packages that offer upgrades like massaging, heated, and ventilated front seats, and ambient lighting.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the MDX models near you.
2026 Buick Enclave
The 2026 Buick Enclave represents the flagship SUV for the storied brand. It was all new for 2025, and it gets minimal updates for 2026, including some new exterior colors and a two-tone interior on the top Avenir trim.
Buick Enclave Highlights
Potent powertrain: The 2026 Buick Enclave has a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 328 hp and 326 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. We like the extra power this engine delivers to the 3-row SUV, but it sounds somewhat strained under hard acceleration. That’s largely dampened inside the cabin, however, thanks to Buick’s noise-reducing technology, called QuietTuning, which is standard on all trims.
Impressive tech: Buick did not skimp on the interior of the Enclave. Inside is a large 30-inch display unit that houses both the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment system, complete with Google Assistant. Wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are standard. We also appreciate the rear camera mirror, available on the Avenir trim, which allows the driver to see clearly behind them without obstruction from passengers’ heads or cargo.
Super Cruise: The Enclave offers GM’s superior hands-free driving system, Super Cruise, as an option across the trim lineup. This package includes Enhanced Automatic Park Assist, a parking assistant that is useful when parking in tight spaces or with a fully loaded vehicle.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Enclave models near you.
Similarities
The Acura MDX and Buick Enclave are two well-appointed, 3-row luxury midsize SUVs that offer solid driving experiences and represent great values in their segment.
Pricing
New 2026 Acura MDX Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$53,250 |
$51,200 |
|||
$55,450 |
$53,300 |
|||
$58,650 |
$54,600 |
|||
$60,850 |
$57,400 |
|||
$63,850 |
$60,400 |
|||
$68,350 |
$64,100 |
|||
$70,350 |
$66,200 |
|||
$77,300 |
$74,600 |
New 2026 Buick Enclave Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$48,395 |
$45,300 |
|||
$51,895 |
$48,600 |
|||
$61,995 |
$58,100 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 Acura MDX vehicles and New 2026 Buick Enclave vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2026 Acura MDX | 2026 Buick Enclave | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 3.5-liter 6-cylinder | 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 pounds | 5,000 pounds |
| Horsepower | 290 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 328 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 267 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm | 326 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm |
| Transmission | automatic, 10-speed w/sequential sportshift | automatic, 8-speed |
| Fuel Economy | N/A | 19 city/24 highway/21 combined mpg |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 6 years/70,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | Not rated | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 inches | 121 inches |
| Overall Length | 198.4 inches | 207.6 inches |
| Width | N/A | 87.9 inches |
| Height | 67.9 inches | 71.0 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 40.5 feet | 39.0 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 38.5 inches | 42.6 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 38.1 inches | 39.9 inches |
| Headroom, 3rd Row | 36.2 inches | 38.3 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.6 inches | 44.3 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 38.5 inches | 41.5 inches |
| Legroom, 3rd Row | 29.1 inches | 32.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 61.9 inches | 62.2 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 60.3 inches | 62.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 3rd Row | 55.2 inches | 57.8 inches |
| Cargo Behind Last Seat | 18.1 feet | 22.9 feet |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | 48.4 feet | 57.1 feet |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 95.0 feet | N/A |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
The Acura MDX and Buick Enclave each offer a satisfying, comfortable ride, but if you prefer a sportier look and feel, we’d recommend the MDX. If you want Super Cruise hands-free driving as well as a bit more cargo room and a third row more suitable for adults, you might gravitate toward the Enclave. We recommend calculating your budget, taking each for a test drive, and seeing which better fits your lifestyle.
