2009 Buick Enclave

• Overall
• Prices
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
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Interior - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Enclave's cabin is very spacious, with plenty of room for eight passengers and cargo. In addition, it's extremely upscale for its class and boasts plenty of standard and optional features.

• "Buick says the Enclave's interior strives to emulate that of a private jet. The second-row bucket seats slide forward and back, and the second and third rows fold to provide extra cargo room." -- Cars.com
• "The 2009 Buick Enclave's interior features a curvaceous dash design accented by camphor burl wood appliques and chrome trim. High-quality materials, a simple, logical layout and an impressively low level of interior noise make for an extremely inviting cabin." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "Luxury sedan quietness is an Enclave hallmark. Road rumble is well-controlled, and wind noise is limited to a slight whistle from the mirrors at highway speeds." -- Consumer Guide
• "The Enclave's cabin feels upscale. Its surfaces are low-gloss and the various panels fit together nicely." -- Edmunds

Seating

The Enclave's seating is comfortable, though the rows get more cramped the further back you go. The second row can seat either two or three, depending on whether it's ordered with the bench seat or captain's chairs.

• "Getting to the rear-most seats in many vehicles can be a hassle. Not so in the Enclave, where the cleverly designed second-row seats, with flip-up cushions and the capability to slide far forward, provide a wide flat space to enter the third-row seating area." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "With the 2nd row slid forward, the 3rd row can accommodate six-footers --though they'll ride knees-up. The bench seats are wide enough for three-across seating for adults, but center-seat cushioning is stingy." -- Consumer Guide
• "A six-foot-four colleague pronounces the third row 'usable,' but another tall tester notes the front seatbelt harness does not adjust above abnormal shoulder level." -- Car and Driver
• "The seats we sat in were comfortable and supportive." -- New Car Test Drive

Interior Features                                                

The Enclave comes with plenty of features, including several new options for this year. Reviewers praise its optional navigation system. However, it's bundled in an Entertainment Package that might be more than you're willing to sign up for. If you're looking for a simplified and portable navigation system, check out our GPS reviews before heading to the store.

• "New for 2009 is a navigation system with real-time traffic updates. Also new for 2009 are a wireless cell phone link, heated and cooled front seats, and a 110-volt inverter that is standard with all entertainment packages. A rearview camera is available with the Driver Confidence package -- even on those vehicles without a navigation system." -- Consumer Guide
• "The standard equipment list for the base CX trim includes 18-inch wheels, a power liftgate, power front seats and tri-zone automatic climate control. Stepping up to the CXL adds heated power-adjustable front seats, leather seating surfaces and stylish 19-inch aluminum wheels." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "There are plenty of options, such as a DVD player, captain's chairs, and larger 19-inch wheels. An optional navigation system comes bundled with a rearview camera, which helps cut down on the poor rear visibility issues." -- Car Gurus
• "The dash features three arches trimmed in wood. The vents are elegant ovals, and even the PRNDL readout on the center console is encased in a clear lens, a concept-car touch that never seems to make it into production." -- Road and Track

Cargo

The Enclave's cargo capacity is a hit with reviewers.

• "A strong point. Enclave's cargo volume is largest among premium midsize SUVs, rivaling that of many large SUVs. There's more usable space behind the raised 3rd-row seat than in most midsize SUVs, plus a handy underfloor compartment." -- Consumer Guide
• "Cargo space behind the third row is good and, with the second and third rows folded, the Enclave offers a cavernous, flat load area." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "With both rows stowed, maximum cargo room totals 116.2 cubic feet - considerably more than in the XC90 (93.2) or MDX (83.5)." -- Cars.com
• "One touch of a button on the keyfob raises the rear liftgate, providing access to the Enclave CXL's rear cargo, which can easily stow several bags of golf clubs." -- Washington Times
• "I tested the Enclave's cargo space with a trip to the grocery store. With the quick tug of a belt, the third row folded down easily and really opened up the cargo area. It was so huge I could have easily stretched out back there. After emptying all the groceries out of the back, a quick pull on the strap had the row upright again. All that was left for me to do was press the button to close the hatch." -- Mother Proof