Despite its entry-level status, the Enclave CX is loaded with features and amenities to the point of making some competitors green with envy. Even without the navigation screen, you can still get a backup camera (with the image being displayed on a portion of the rearview mirror). XM radio and a motorized liftgate are also included.
In terms of configuration, the Enclave is absolutely the ideal vehicle for large families that look for a fairly plush interior without an overly busy layout.
A Concord? No. A cruise liner? Yes.
GM did not endow the big Enclave with outrageous power, instead opting for a compliant, well-proven engine. The 3.6-liter V6 produces a reasonable 288 horsepower, which is more than adequate for a full-size CUV in normal driving conditions.
One of the main benefits of this powerplant is a smooth, flexible operation accompanied by a nice throttle response. Direct injection is used to maximize performance and efficiency, as evidenced by the respectable fuel economy average of 12.1 L/100 km.
The automatic transmission is quite commendable; the six gears do what they’re asked to and contribute to smooth shifts.
While torque steer is noticeable under hard acceleration, it completely disappears when you start driving more leisurely -- it's a Buick after all! Handling is good and ride quality is fantastic, the suspension soaking up road imperfections without ever feeling spongy.
Braking is where the weight and size of the Enclave are the most felt. Stopping power is decent, but that weight is always a concern. Also, the turning radius is pretty wide, making it awkward to navigate downtown. Finally, the rear window is fairly narrow, which creates sizeable blind spots in the rear three-quarter angle.
Competition
Don’t be surprised to find most of the Enclave’s competition within the GM family, including the Chevrolet Traverse LS ($35,620) and GMC Acadia SLE ($37,800). Other top rivals are the Ford Flex SE ($32,699), Hyundai Veracruz GL ($36,995), Kia Borrego 3.8 LX ($36,995), Mazda CX-9 GS ($37,995) and Toyota Highlander V6 ($32,600).
The more luxurious 2009 Buick Enclave CX FWD starts at $42,805.
Wrap-up
The Enclave is one of many crossovers designed to replace minivans and probably SUVs over the medium term. It brilliantly fulfills its mission, so much so that one has to wonder: should I take the plane or spend a few extra hours on the road?
photo:Bertrand Godin
In terms of configuration, the Enclave is absolutely the ideal vehicle for large families that look for a fairly plush interior without an overly busy layout.
A Concord? No. A cruise liner? Yes.
GM did not endow the big Enclave with outrageous power, instead opting for a compliant, well-proven engine. The 3.6-liter V6 produces a reasonable 288 horsepower, which is more than adequate for a full-size CUV in normal driving conditions.
One of the main benefits of this powerplant is a smooth, flexible operation accompanied by a nice throttle response. Direct injection is used to maximize performance and efficiency, as evidenced by the respectable fuel economy average of 12.1 L/100 km.
The automatic transmission is quite commendable; the six gears do what they’re asked to and contribute to smooth shifts.
The 3.6-liter V6 produces a reasonable 288 horsepower, which is more than adequate for a full-size CUV in normal driving conditions. |
While torque steer is noticeable under hard acceleration, it completely disappears when you start driving more leisurely -- it's a Buick after all! Handling is good and ride quality is fantastic, the suspension soaking up road imperfections without ever feeling spongy.
Braking is where the weight and size of the Enclave are the most felt. Stopping power is decent, but that weight is always a concern. Also, the turning radius is pretty wide, making it awkward to navigate downtown. Finally, the rear window is fairly narrow, which creates sizeable blind spots in the rear three-quarter angle.
Competition
Don’t be surprised to find most of the Enclave’s competition within the GM family, including the Chevrolet Traverse LS ($35,620) and GMC Acadia SLE ($37,800). Other top rivals are the Ford Flex SE ($32,699), Hyundai Veracruz GL ($36,995), Kia Borrego 3.8 LX ($36,995), Mazda CX-9 GS ($37,995) and Toyota Highlander V6 ($32,600).
The more luxurious 2009 Buick Enclave CX FWD starts at $42,805.
Wrap-up
The Enclave is one of many crossovers designed to replace minivans and probably SUVs over the medium term. It brilliantly fulfills its mission, so much so that one has to wonder: should I take the plane or spend a few extra hours on the road?
photo:Bertrand Godin