The Buick Enclave is more than just Miami's Favored Crossover

2009 Buick Enclave Review

from Edmunds.com


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.

The Buick Enclave can be purchased at your Local Miami GM Dealership. For more information contact Brickell GM at 786-245-4889 or visit them onine at http://www.brickellgmc.com