Summary
The Buick Enclave, a mid-size crossover SUV, is renowned for its luxurious interior exterior, including its signature grille. Launched in 2008, the vehicle offers an exceptionally quiet and spacious cabin with seating for seven—eight in most models—and plenty of cargo space.
The Buick Enclave comes with automatic transmission and a V6 engine, and it is available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive. While it isn’t ideal for going off-road, this three-row SUV is a well-rounded, versatile and comfortable ride that delivers on both convenience and safety.
Safety
Standard features in all Buick Enclave models since 2008 include:
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and brake assist to prevent skidding
- Traction Control and Electronic Stability Control, which prevent swerving and maintain control on slippery surfaces
- Daytime running lights and fog lights to ensure other drivers can see you, even in the worst conditions
- Child safety locks and driver and passenger airbags
Some drivers find the SUV’s roof pillars obstruct rear visibility. However, an available back-up camera (standard on 2013 models onwards) improves visual awareness.
Newer models offer driver assist technologies such as:
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (with the Leather and Premium models as of 2017), which notifies the driver of approaching vehicles while reversing
- An Automatic Braking System (available with the Avenir Technology package as of 2018), which detects hazards ahead and applies the brakes
- Blind spot monitoring (from 2016 with the Leather Group), which spots vehicles just out of sight.
Interior
The Enclave’s opulent interior is equipped for convenience. This suite of interior features are standard across all model years:
- Power steering
- Power windows, mirrors and door locks
- Front and rear reading lamps
- Adjustable steering wheel with mounted controls
- Remote trunk release
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Keyless entry
- Illuminated vanity mirrors for driver and passenger
- Rear floor mats
Upper trim levels offer extras, such as leather seats or heated seats and steering wheel.
Technology
All Enclaves come with AM/FM stereo, auxiliary audio input, satellite radio, an MP3 player and a CD player as standard, as well as Bluetooth capability in models produced since 2009. Luxury trim options include a premium Bose sound system, rear seat audio controls and wireless charging.
Buick’s IntelliLink infotainment system is standard in variants from 2013 onward and has a user-friendly 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen with a simple layout. Smartphone compatibility is available through Apple CarPlay® or Android AutoTM†, as well as a wi-fi hotspot (data plan required) and a navigation system with voice recognition.
Space
The Buick Enclave seats up to eight people (seven in the 2019 model) in its roomy three-row cabin. There’s ample headroom and legroom, especially in the front row. Cargo space is plenty at up to 115 cubic feet when the back seats are folded down.
Comfort
The Buick Enclave offers the best in luxurious comfort, with a long list of standard features such as power adjustable seats for both the driver and front passenger. Air-conditioning comes with dual-zone climate control to fine-tune temperatures independently for different areas of the SUV. A power sunroof is available with high-end trims, while the power liftgate is standard.
Although some drivers find manoeuvring difficult due to the Buick Enclave’s large size, its premium ride suspensions and controlled handling make for a relaxed ride.
