WASHINGTON — Buick has been making the large midsize crossover Enclave for a long time now, and some updates are helping to keep it relevant in the market.
Still, the age is starting to show a bit more in 2016. That being said, GM doesn’t seem to be having a hard time selling this more luxurious version of the crossover. GMC and Chevrolet sell their own versions, too. Yet the Buick Enclave seems to be a popular alternative to larger luxury SUVs and other expensive midsize luxury crossovers. My wife has the Chevrolet version of this crossover, so I was interested to see whether the loaded, $53,835 Enclave AWD Premium was worth the extra coin.
The interior is a step up from the Chevrolet version. The leather seems like a higher quality, and the dash materials are also an improvement. The seats are comfortable, and are heated and cooled.
Space is a big selling point. The Enclave probably has the most in the midsize crossover class. The second row has two captain’s chairs, which makes access to the third row much easier with two car seats. The third row is usable by adults, and there is still space in the rear for cargo.
The heated steering wheel has power tilt and telescoping — a welcome upgrade. You still need a key to run it. The Enclave shows its age in the audio system: The push buttons don’t always respond to the first touch in both radio and NAV functions. The Enclave is, however, now equipped with a Wi-Fi hot spot.
This Enclave is still a pleasant crossover to look at, even though it’s been around for a long time. The looks are different enough from the GMC and Chevrolet to look more premium. The Tuscan package is new for 2016, with large 20-inch wheels with bronze accents and a special bronze-toned grill that adds flair.
The White Frost Tricoat is a white that I could live with — a pretty color on this big lug. The hood has the Buick portholes, and the roof rack and side rails provide more storage. The adaptive headlights help to update the look, and they work well, too. The side and rear view aren’t the most exciting-looking on the market but overall it looks smaller than it really is.
A Buick should have a quiet and smooth ride, and the Enclave doesn’t disappoint. For a big crossover, the cabin is hushed and the ride is good. Most noises are kept in check. It doesn’t carve corners or snap your neck with quick acceleration, but it provides good all-day driving comfort.
There is only one engine, a 3.6L V6, and it does a decent job. I wanted a few more ponies when it was fully loaded with people and cargo. A six-speed automatic is good. It tries to get to the higher gear quicker though a modern transmission with more gears and could help with fuel economy. Fuel economy for the 186 miles I drove was 16.7 mpg, not the 18 mpg of mixed driving on the sticker, but you do use regular gas.
The 2016 Buick Enclave crossover has the space of a larger vehicle, yet is still easy enough to drive and park. With upgrades for 2016, it helps make it a bit friendlier, and it seems like it’s just as popular as we wait for what’s coming in the next Enclave.
