As it has since introduction, the Buick Enclave shares its underpinnings with the Chevy Traverse and GMC Acadia. A mid-cycle refresh for 2013 brings a smart new look to the luxury crossover.
The Enclave comes in three trim levels: Convenience, Leather and Premium. All are 7-passenger crossovers powered by a 288-hp 3.6L V6, which features variable valve timing. The engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic, and the powertrain is good for an EPA rated 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The Enclave is available in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive across all trim levels.
All Enclaves are well-equipped. The entry-level Convenience model includes standard features such as voice-activated IntelliLink infotainment system, Rear Park Assist with Rear Vision Camera, leather seating, tri-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, power liftgate, remote start, and an 8-way power driver seat. The Leather Group trim adds niceties like heated front seats, 8-way power passenger seat, memory presets for the driver's seat, blind spot indicator, and 19-inch alloy wheels. The top-of-the-line Premium Group trim includes rear seat audio controls, a Bose 10-speaker audio system, heated and cooled front seats, power tilt/telescopic steering column, and more.
Several desirable features are available as standalone options or as part as packages. For example, 8-passenger seating can be specified, as can touchscreen navigation, a 3-prong household-style power outlet, rear seat entertainment system with DVD player, a power sunroof, and much more.
Safety is paramount on every Enclave, with anti-lock brakes, front and side airbags, daytime running lights, rearview camera and Ultrasonic Parking Assist, StabiliTrak, traction control and OnStar all standard.
Available All-wheel Drive
Spacious, Luxurious Interior
Ample Power
Standard Safety Features
The Buick Enclave debuted in 2007, and for 2013 it receives its first big refresh. The changes both inside and out are subtle. Up front is a new, larger waterfall grille. New headlights, fog lights and taillights utilize LED accents. Side skirts are now body colored, and the C-pillar is blacked out and carries a small Buick emblem. Alloy 18-inch wheels are standard, with 19- and 20-inch alloys are available. New colors include Mocha Bronze Metallic, Atlantis Blue Metallic, Titanium Cloth, Champagne Silver Metallic, and Iridium Metallic.
Inside, the 2013 Enclave features several refinements, 8-way adjustability for the passenger seat, including a higher quality look and feel to the wood trim, accented dash stitching, and a large LED display across the base of the windshield. An IntelliLink infotainment system with 7-inch touchscreen completes the interior upgrades. A rear vision camera system adds a new realm of safety to the Enclave.
Base Enclaves carry a price of $39,270.
The Buick Enclave is packaged well, so that even as a mid-sized crossover, it will seat up to eight passengers, which pits it against larger SUVs. A subtle redesign for 2013 makes it a fresh choice against the competition from Lexus, Acura and Lincoln, and with a host of standard features, each Enclave model offers buyers a smart, luxurious crossover they can live with for a long time.
