2008 Buick Enclave CXL AWD Road Test
Re-Defining the Buick Nameplate
GM’s family of new mid-size SUVs includes the very upscale and elegant Enclave, with third row seating sufficiently spacious to accommodate three adults.
Redefining Buick
The Enclave is the flagship leading the way in Buick’s rebirth; style and luxury are the hallmarks defining this revival. Standing-out in such a non-Buick-like way is the Enclave’s dramatic, chrome waterfall grille and its optional 19-inch chrome wheels. Paying respect to powerful Buicks of yesteryear are the, albeit fake, exhaust ports incorporated into both sides of the Enclave’s sculpted hood.
Traditional Buick buyers may find the curvaceous lines of the Enclave’s body somewhat uncharacteristic of Buick. Stylistically, the Enclave is quite a departure from the more traditionally styled, and soon to be defunct, Buick Rainier. The Enclave’s swooping belt line may impart “sportiness,” but it also diminishes the vehicle’s rear-quarter side glass, impeding rearward visibility. My tester was equipped with a navigation system that included a backup camera, useful for overcoming the restrictive sight lines.
Inside the Enclave is where occupants will be most impressed with Buck’s awakening, a number of aspects of which stood-out for me. First on the affinity list is the architecture of the Enclave’s welcoming cabin, which includes a very up-to-date instrument panel and dash design; second is the roominess found in third class. Ingress and egress to third row seating is made easy and straightforward by uniquely folding second row Captain chairs that also slide forward.
With an unobstructed path to the wide third row, even adults have little to complain of when so subjugated. I sat in the third row and was impressed with the head and legroom therein. I can’t think of a mid-size SUV that provides more space for the human form.
Power and Technology
Only one engine choice exists: GM’s newest V6. Displacing 3.6-litres, the DOHC unit develops 275 horsepower @ 6,600-rpm and 251 pound-feet of torque @ 3,200-rpm. Power from this unit flows through Buick’s first six-speed automatic transmission. The autobox can be shifted manually with the use of a rocker switch neatly incorporated into the knob of the gearshift lever- slick.
My all-wheel-drive (AWD) tester also featured traction control and GM’s StabiliTrak, electronic stability program with rollover protection- all as standard equipment. Further protection is achieved through a full array of standard airbags, which include side curtain airbags for all three rows of seating. High-intensity-discharge (HID) headlights and halogen fog lamps ensure excellent nighttime visibility from the Enclave’s high-seating position.
On the road
The Enclave benefits from GM’s Quiet Tuning Technology, the outcome of which is a tremendously hushed, relaxing cabin. Quiet Tuning employs noise-cancellation systems and noise-absorption materials and construction to mute the intrusion of road and wind noises. Long trips are far more palatable when noise-based irritation is held in-check.
Complementing the silence is a smooth, comfortable ride. The Enclave’s fully independent suspension does a commendable job of deleting road degradation before it bullies its way into the passenger compartment- but not at the cost of woeful handling. The Enclave maintains its composure through corners, provided said corners are embarked upon with sensibility; this is not BMW’s X5 in the twisties.
Straight-line performance is acceptable but not exceptional. GM’s smooth 3.6 litre V6 feels slightly overwhelmed by the Enclave’s mass. Acceleration ability is less than I expected from 275 horsepower, plus the six-speed autobox has a tendency to gear-down at the slightest incline- reinforcing the perception that power is wanting.
Despite the need to coax get-up-and-go from the mediocre mill, the Enclave is a very pleasing SUV to administer from the driver’s seat. Those occupying passenger perches are sure to appreciate this SUV’s gentle soul and welcoming manner as it quietly transports them through town or across this great nation.
Enclave wrap
Buick’s Lexus-like reliability of late has become the envy of many-a-manufacturer. Still, with a Canadian base of $51,295, nothing less should be expected. My decked-out tester tipped the scale at a whopping $60,650 when Buick’s destination charge was added in. That’s not what people are accustomed to paying for a Buick- therein lies one of the Enclave’s hurdles to sales success.
Despite the challenge of reconciling 60-large with a Buick nameplate, the Enclave offers purchasers distinctive styling combined with premium-level comfort and luxury; and if the current trend continues in Buick’s favor, outstanding reliability as well.
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