#1

in Affordable Midsize SUVs

Based on analysis of 47 Enclave reviews and test drives.

MSRP: $35,515 - $43,995
Invoice: $33,739 - $41,795
MPG: 17 City / 24 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:8.7
Performance:8.2
Exterior:8.4
Interior:8.5
Safety:9.9
Reliability:7.0
Pros and Cons
  • Responsive, ultra-smooth ride
  • Cabin is whisper-quiet and accommodating
  • Exterior styling is sleek and classy
  • Seats are comfortable and supportive
  • No optional V8 engine
  • Somewhat inconsistent quality to the interior materials

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Buick Enclave - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Buick Enclave ranks 1 out of 27 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 47 published reviews and test drives of the Buick Enclave, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Buick Enclave's upscale appointments, smooth ride and stylish exterior put it near the top of its class -- and nearly on par with some luxury SUVs. After a few updates last year, the 2010 model receives very minimal changes.

Though it shares GM's Lambda platform with the Saturn Outlook and the GMC Acadia, the Enclave holds a price premium over both. "Enclave is a crossover that builds on the strengths of its more mainstream cousins by offering tangible upgrades in luxury and style," says Consumer Guide. "Its car-like driving dynamics and ample passenger and cargo versatility make it a must see for shoppers considering a premium SUV."

The Enclave is available in two trims: the base CX, premium CXL and new top-of-the-line CXL2. Trims are available with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Since the 2010 Enclave is nearly identical to the 2009 model, this review uses data from both model years.

  • "...[T]he Enclave sets its sights on upscale, luxury-seeking drivers looking for a combination of high-end comfort with family-style versatility." -- Car Gurus
  • "Why does the one of the world's greatest athletes drive a Buick? Like Tiger Woods, the Buick Enclave is approachable, down to earth, yet something the rest of the pack keeps chasing." -- Washington Times
  • "Now beginning its third year of production, the Enclave is Buick's entry into the growing luxury SUV category and competes with well-established offerings from Lexus, Acura, BMW and Volvo. With eye-catching exterior styling, a highly usable interior and a remarkably quiet cabin the Buick Enclave has what it takes to be a viable competitor in this hot segment." -- Kelley Blue Book
  • "Now entering its third year of production, Buick's three-row crossover SUV continues to be one of the most appealing large crossover SUVs available. The Enclave rides on the same unibody platform as the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook, but it's more than just a badge job. The Enclave has a certifiably luxurious interior, and its slick exterior styling further distinguishes it as the upscale offering of this quartet." -- Edmunds

Enclave Performance - 8.2 (Very Good)

Befitting a Buick, the 2010 Enclave provides a smooth ride. Surprisingly, reviewers also find it fun to drive. "Taut handling doesn't come at the expense of ride quality; the ride is smooth, and this crossover responds well to steering input through the turns," writes AutoWeek. While reviewers previously complained about sluggish acceleration, this was remedied in part by the V6 engine's horsepower upgrade in 2009. Read More

Enclave Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)

The 2010 Enclave's exterior is sleek and stylish. "The headlamps have similarity to the eyes of a human; in fact they even turn sideward to the illuminate the area in turning (adaptive headlights)," says the Washington Times. "The entire headlight assembly sparkles, giving a hint of a personality that's inviting. It makes you want to get inside." Read More

Enclave Interior - 8.5 (Very Good)

The Enclave's eight-seat cabin is spacious, comfortable and luxurious. ‘The well-assembled interior includes high-quality materials," says Consumer Guide. "Chrome and wood-finish trim accents impart a classy ambiance." Though the Enclave boasts three rows of seating, it can get cramped for adults sitting in the rear. Read More

Enclave Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The 2010 Buick Enclave scores very well in federal government and insurance industry crash tests. The Enclave's many safety features include three-row side-curtain airbags. Read More

Enclave Reliability - 7.0 (Good)

The 2010 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 2010 Buick Enclave comes equipped with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Read More

Review Last Updated: 2/9/10