2008 Buick Enclave
Based on analysis of 36 Enclave reviews and test drives.
Buick Enclave - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Buick Enclave ranks 3 out of 26 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 36 published reviews and test drives of the Buick Enclave, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Enclave has a smooth, quiet ride and a stylish exterior, but there is a noticeable absence of an optional V8 engine. Still, it ranks near the top of its large class.
Auto reviewers find the all-new 2008 Buick Enclave to be a sleek-looking, smooth-riding SUV with a quiet, accommodating cabin. Road and Track says it "prizes sculptural body shapes over truck-inspired toughness" -- a design to which "it adds a silky-smooth drive train and, to top it off, class-leading cabin quiet." The Enclave shares GM's Lambda platform with the Saturn Outlook and the GMC Acadia, but holds a price premium over both. However, its luxurious interior and sleek styling could have potential owners comparing it to more vaunted competition.
The 2008 Buick Enclave is available in two trims: the base CX and the premium CXL. Both trims are available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) versions.
- "The 2008 Buick Enclave is an all-new luxury sport utility that seats seven or eight, offers big cargo space, and gets good fuel economy and performance from a modern V6 engine." -- New Car Test Drive
- "Comparable Enclaves will run several thousand dollars less than the competition from Lexus." -- AutoWeek
- "Driving this car, I was surprised every time I remembered the price tag. I just expect all this to cost more, especially looking around me at its lovely, modern interior design and sensible ergonomics. There's just enough wood to suggest luxury, just enough polished metal to suggest modernism, and not too much of either one. This is one posh vehicle. I kept thinking, 'This is a Buick? Really?'" -- Mother Proof
Enclave Performance - 7.9 (Good)
The 2008 Buick Enclave, according to reviewers, is a smooth and fun-to-drive SUV. Road & Travel Magazine says the Buick's ride quality "compares to a plush sedan, thanks to independent components for both front and rear suspension systems." The most common complaint is that its significant curb weight sometimes takes its toll on acceleration. Still, the Enclave's performance ranks in the top half of its class. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why the optional all-wheel drive system may be worth the money. continue
Enclave Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)
Reviewers judge the Enclave's exterior to be sleek and stylish -- and it earns a ranking in the top half of the class. New Car Test Drive captures the consensus, writing, "The long body shell is anything but boxy, with curvy, swoopy, and sexy shapes from every angle." Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn what's unique about the Enclave's body panels, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Enclave Interior - 8.3 (Very Good)
The highly-ranked interior of the 2008 Enclave, according to reviewers, is spacious, comfortable and even functional. "Seating for eight doesn't mean Enclave will need a trailer to haul luggage," assures AutoWeek. "Haul lots of people, piles of stuff, or some combination; you won't leave much behind." Continue with our Interior Review to learn why reviewers are impressed with the Enclave's cargo space and upscale cabin, or check out our interior photos. continue
Enclave Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)
The 2008 Buick Enclave offers safety features comparable to those of its in-class competitors and a solid build. It scores five out of five in government front and side crash tests, and four out of five in rollover tests. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn about its plentiful list of safety equipment. continue
Enclave Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Buick Enclave reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Buick Enclave comes equipped with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn about the Enclave's powertrain warranty. continue