Buick Enclave Review

2010 Buick Enclave CXL SUV Shown

The Buick Enclave is a recent entry in the luxury crossover SUV segment that has earned Buick some accolades, ending the brand's string of so-so products. It shares a platform with GM's latest group of large crossovers and features a fully independent suspension, a powerful 3.6-liter V6 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and optional all-wheel drive. The Enclave's interior can accommodate adults in all three rows and offers up to 116 cubic feet of cargo room -- more than that of many traditional full-size sport-utilities.

Current Buick Enclave

A full-size crossover SUV, the Buick Enclave sports a number of family-friendly features, such as a roomy cabin with easily accessed and adult-friendly third-row seats. There are two trim levels: base CX and uplevel CXL, both with standard seven-passenger seating. An available second-row bench seat increases capacity to eight. The 3.6-liter V6 is rated at 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque.

The well-equipped CX comes with luxuries such as xenon headlights, a power liftgate, triple-zone automatic climate control, satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity and OnStar. The upmarket CXL adds bigger wheels, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power passenger seat and memory positioning for the driver. Options include a navigation system with a back-up camera, real-time traffic, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, remote start, rear park assist, adaptive headlights, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and a dual-panel sunroof.

Inside, the Buick Enclave feels genuinely first-class, with a design reportedly inspired by private jet cabins, with a gently curving dash, rich-looking wood-grain inlays and soft, double-stitched leather. Adding interest are a Tiffany-style analog clock and aqua blue instrumentation. With such roomy accommodations, most will probably overlook a few lower-quality trim choices and some minor, overly complicated controls. Access to the third row is excellent, with second-row seats that tilt and slide out of the way, and there are a useful 19 cubic feet of space behind the upright third-row seat.

In our reviews, we've found the Buick Enclave's V6 provides more than ample power, along with a mildly sporty exhaust note. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, but it's programmed to maximize fuel economy so downshifts are sometimes a bit delayed. To compensate, there's a manual shift button on the shift lever. The Enclave is quiet and smooth-riding on the highway as expected, though some buyers may find the CXL model's ride a bit too firm due to its 19-inch wheels. Overall handling is competent and predictable, though not necessarily the equal of its more driver-oriented rivals.

Used Buick Enclave Models

The Buick Enclave debuted for the 2008 model year. There have been no major changes since, though for the Enclave's first year the V6 had a lower output of 275 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque.

SELECT A SPECIFIC BUICK ENCLAVE MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.