2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE vs 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred
Awd vs 63 more hp. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $170 price gap, 265 vs 328 hp, 23 vs 22 MPG.
The Grand Highlander XLE leads on AWD. The Enclave Preferred leads on 63 more hp. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE | 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $46,030 | $46,200 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 25 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.8 gal | 19.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,000/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,440 lbs | 4,537 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 116.1" | 120.9" |
| Length | 201.4" | 207.6" |
| Width | 78.3" | 79.6" |
| Height | 70.1" | 71.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE and 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred?
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE starts at $46,030, $170 less than the 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred at $46,200. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE?
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $170 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $83/year less on fuel; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred is the stronger pick when the extra 63 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE or 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred?
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE rates 23 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE or 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred produces 328 hp, 63 more than the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE at 265 hp. The 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred also leads in torque at 326 lb-ft vs 310 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE, FWD on the 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred.
Is the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE bigger than the 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred is 6.2″ longer at 207.6″ vs 201.4″. The 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred has a 4.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE and 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE comes with AWD, while the 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota Grand Highlander trims, Buick trims, Buick Enclave trims
The Grand Highlander–Enclave Decision
Cross-shopping full-size SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Grand Highlander and Enclave compare. The $170 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred has 63 more hp (328 vs 265). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE comes with AWD; the 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE saves roughly $83/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $415.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE when you want to keep $170 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander XLE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Enclave Preferred when the extra 63 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Toyota or Buick or any dealership.