The Buick Enclave’s 2008 release offered an affordable SUV with a lot of style, comfort, and a smooth performance. Whether you need more cargo space or third-row seating, the Buick has been a great SUV for family and friends.
First Generation (2008-2017)
The first-generation Enclave offered generous seating for up to seven passengers in three rows, with second-row captain’s chairs. Optional second-row bench seating increased the passenger capacity to 8 passengers. It features a standard power liftgate and collapsible SmartSlide second-row seats. It was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produced 276 horsepower and was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It also came with AWD.
The model changed to produce 288 horsepower in 2009 and standard Bluetooth connectivity, and other upgrades appeared. Heated and cooled front seats were added as an option. Fuel economy for the Enclave was 17/24 mpg city and highway.
In 2011, the Enclave offered more standard features such as a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and tri-zone automatic climate control. Its cargo space was plentiful, with 115 cubic feet of room with the second and third rows folded down.
A refresh happened in 2013 with changes to the exterior styling. It featured a new waterfall style chrome grill with LED running lights, fog lights and taillights, as well as Xenon headlights. The interior was also updated with new softer materials, a redesigned dashboard and accents of wood and chrome. An IntelliLink infotainment display and 7-inch touchscreen were also new as well as a few new safety features, including seven standard airbags, and an available blind spot monitoring system and forward collision warning. Front- or all-wheel drive is available
A new Tuscan Edition appeared in 2016, as well as 4G LTE connectivity and Wi-Fi spot. In 2017, a new Sport Touring model was available.
Second Generation (2018-Present)
A restyle came in 2018, with more third-row space, improved towing capability and safety technology. Standard safety equipment includes a rear vision camera, rear park assists, and a front center side airbag. More premium materials were featured in the interior, and the exterior came with a sleeker, aerodynamic look. The roofline is lower and the windshield is sharper. It now is available with a stronger engine and a new nine-speed automatic transmission. Its base engine is now a 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, an 8-inch touch screen, and rear parking sensors are added to standard features.
Automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control became available. Cloth upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heat front seats are standard; and leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel are available. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
No major changes happened in the 2019-2021 model years.
2021 models start at $40,000 and range to a starting price of $53,800. Trims include the Preferred, Essence, Premium, and Avenir.
Conclusion
The Buick Enclave has been a well-rounded midsize SUV from its release. It is safe, solid, and smooth-riding, with plenty of extras, including comfort and space. It’s been noted as a great family SUV.