2016 Lincoln MKX vs 2016 Buick Enclave

The Lincoln MKX and Buick Enclave are a pair of very competitive American-made luxury SUVs. When we compare their features and performance, however, it should become clear that the wise choice is to save some money and go for the LINCOLN MKX. The big twin-turbocharged V6 in the LINCOLN MKX gives it a slight advantage in horsepower and torque on paper, but it really comes into play in the real world. The LINCOLN MKX is a full second and a half quicker from 0-60 mph (6.3 seconds vs 7.8 seconds for the Enclave) and in the standing quarter mile (14.8 seconds vs 16.1 seconds). And yet the LINCOLN MKX still gets better fuel economy than the Enclave (17 mpg city and 26 mpg highway vs 17 and 24)!

So, price and performance are a complete lock in favor of the LINCOLN MKX, but there is a tradeoff in seating capacity. The LINCOLN MKX gives up two seats to create more luggage volume. If you absolutely have to carry seven people, you may need to look elsewhere, but if you can settle for five seats the Lincoln is the place to be. Its Lincoln Drive Control with adaptive suspension and active noise control make for a seriously relaxing and comfortable ride.

Differences between the 2016 Lincoln MKX and 2016 Buick Enclave

Other than passenger seating, we’ve seen how the LINCOLN MKX wallops the Enclave in all of the big-picture categories for a luxury SUV. What happens when we look at the fine details? If you aren’t convinced of the LINCOLN MKX’s superiority yet, this is where you may change your mind. Lincoln has put great attention to detail in their vehicle. The LINCOLN MKX has leatherette seats compared with the Enclave’s cloth. And both front seats in the LINCOLN MKX are heated and fully power-adjustable. The Enclave doesn’t have heated seats, and all passengers have to use manual adjustments. Similarly for the windows, Lincoln has installed one-touch up-down windows all around, while Buick only gives that feature to the driver.

It’s the little things that can make a big difference when using a vehicle to commute day after day by yourself or with the family. The Enclave doesn’t offer standard keyless entry like the LINCOLN MKX. The Enclave’s stereo only has six speakers compared with the LINCOLN MKX’s 10. And the Enclave doesn’t even give you a light in the glovebox to help find what you’re looking for. We think you’ll really appreciate the little things in this Lincoln as much as you can appreciate its big performance and big value. Come and take it for a spin at Lidtke Motors in Beaver Dam, Wis.