2008 Buick Enclave CXL FWD
07/26/2007
Shahed Hussain
The 2008 Enclave makes a clean break from its angular Rendezvous predecessor. Sleek curves combined with a distinctive vertically slatted grille immediately identify the Enclave as a Buick. With the Lexus RX350, Acura MDX, and Volvo XC90 as its primary targets, Buick aims to match or exceed its rivals at a lower price. Buick offers the Enclave in two trim levels: CX (MSRP $32,790) and CXL (MSRP $34,990). Both models are available with optional AWD, which adds $2,000 to the sticker. We tested an Enclave CXL FWD model equipped with the standard 3.6L V-6 mated to a 6-speed automatic. Our test vehicle was painted in an attractive Dark Crimson Metallic with Dark Titanium leather interior. Options were limited to the 19-inch chrome-plated aluminum wheels ($895), Bose® 10-speaker/6-CD changer audio system ($980). The total was $36,865 plus $735 destination charge, for a grand total of $37,600.
Part of the Enclave's appeal is its attractive pricing, as well as a more capacious interior versus most of its competitors. Buick compares the Enclave to the Volvo XC90, Acura MDX, Audi Q7, and Lexus RX350. The Acura and Audi are too sporty to be direct competitors to the Buick, while the Lexus is much smaller; which leaves the XC90 as its most direct European SUV rival. Realistically, the Enclave's actual competition is more likely to be the GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook. The Acadia is comparably priced with the Enclave, while the Outlook is somewhat less expensive than either. Other choices include the slightly smaller Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, which also offer 3-row seating like the Enclave. Both the Pilot and Highlander are roughly in the same price range, although neither is as luxurious as the Buick. Hyundai's new Vera Cruz and the Mazda CX-9 should also be on potential shoppers list. The Hyundai matches the Buick's refinement, while the sporty CX-9 offers better handling.
Buick epitomizes traditional American luxury; sometimes understated, sometimes not. The Enclave straddles that line with its bold, toothy grille, and chrome-plated wheels. We had several friends comment favorably about the Enclave's styling; some even considered it as a potential purchase in the near future. Styling is purely subjective, but we prefer the brawnier lines of the GMC Acadia over the Buick's curvaceous exterior. Nonetheless, the Enclave is certainly more appealing than the clunky Rendezvous, which barely disguised its stubby minivan origins.
True to expectations, the Enclave's interior oozes luxury, although a few cost-cutting elements prevent it from achieving parity with its Japanese and European competition. We were impressed to see a wood-rimmed steering wheel; glossy and richly grained, the laminated wood covers the top third and bit of the bottom rim. However, the slippery rim is difficult to grip -- instead we kept our hands on the smooth grey leather that wraps around the spokes. Simulated walnut trim covers the upper door panels, dashboard, shift lever, and center console. On a brighter note, the Enclave abounds with soft touch plastic trim on the dashboard, door panels, and armrests. Nothing detracts from the impression of luxury more than hard interior surfaces, so it's refreshing to see that Buick's product planners and designers understand what these SUV customers expect. Aside from some slightly misaligned plastic trim on the dashboard, overall interior build quality is better than average, especially when compared to previous Buicks.
Plush leather seats are standard on the Enclave CXL (heated for front passengers); base CX models have cloth upholstery. Buick offers a choice of three interior colors; our tested CXL was upholstered in Dark Titanium Leather, which closely resembles a sandy beige hue. Although the soft cushions and flat bolsters will fit most physiques, the seats lack adequate lateral support. Our test vehicle did not have the optional sunroof, so front headroom was plentiful. Buick offers standard 7-passenger seating, with 2nd row captain's chairs and 60/40 split 3rd row bench seats. Optional 8-passenger seating actually costs $495 less, and substitutes a 2nd bench row seat instead. Access to the third row is then less convenient, as the bench seat eliminates the 2nd row aisle. Passengers in the 2nd row get reclining seats that slide back on rails for extra legroom. Even the 3rd row occupants get roomy accommodations; even legroom is adequate if the second row seats are slid forward. Although the rearmost seats can accommodate up to three passengers, only two adults will be happy back there. To haul cargo, both 2nd and 3rd row seats fold down to form a flat load floor. Note that the automatic tailgate opening/closing mechanism intrudes into the cargo area, which may limit drywall or plywood carrying capacity.
The Enclave's backlit gauges, with white and green markings, are readily visible day or night. Both the 8,000 RPM tachometer and 140-MPH speedometer are inset deep into individual chrome-rimmed bezels. Nestled between are the coolant, fuel, and voltmeter gauges. An chrome bezel analog clock sits between the center vents, although the audio system duplicates this function. The HVAC controls are simple and intuitive to use, with large buttons and legible markings. Rear passengers get separate audio and climate controls. Overhead vents above the second and third row seats ensure that everyone stays comfortable. Between the front seats are dual storage compartments: a shallow bin sits on top of a deeper bin suitable for compact discs or small bags. Another lidded bin for sunglasses or a mobile phone sits on the dash, above the center vents. Dual cupholders next to the transmission shift lever are easily accessible by the driver and front passenger. A convenient power liftgate will raise and lower on command via the key fob; or press a button on the center console to disable it if desired. The optional 6-disc, 10 speaker Bose® audio system provides clear, crisp audio at low volume, but becomes less capable as the music gets louder. Distortion is audible at maximum volume, which isn't very loud. Oddly, the audio system will not fade sound to the rear speakers.
Considering the Enclave's luxury aspirations, one might expect numb, lifeless steering feel, but that is not the case. Road textures are accurately transmitted through the leather-wrapped steering wheel. Steering kickback is minimal, and sharp impacts are damped out without fuss. Low steering effort, combined with a quick steering (16.1:1 ratio, 2.89 turns lock-to-lock) hides the Enclave's considerable bulk, giving it a relatively nimble feel. Moderate understeer is the predominant handling trait in typical driving. The independent front strut and rear H-arm suspension are tuned to favor quiet ride comfort over precise handling. The Enclave only has a front stabilizer bar; but without a rear stabilizer bar, body roll is greater than desired. For sedate motoring, most drivers won't notice; but try to hustle the Enclave through curves, and it doesn't cooperate. On the highway, the Enclave provides a smooth, quiet ride, aided by triple door seals that effectively hush wind and tire noise. Even at speeds up to 85 MPH, the Enclave is whisper quiet.
We noticed some low frequency ride oscillations due to the soft dampers; some passengers may find it disconcerting, especially on long highway journeys. In contrast, on bumpy surface streets, the suspension did a remarkable job soaking up road impacts. Soft springs and contribute to noticeable acceleration squat and brake dive. Braking duties are handled by 4-wheel vented discs: 12.8" diameter (front), 13.0" diameter (rear). Pedal feel is slightly spongy, without much feedback, but the brakes are more than adequate to haul down the Enclave from highway speeds.
GM is well known for its superb automatic transmissions, and the modern 6T75 6-speed unit is a benchmark for smooth, seamless operation. Even multi-gear downshifts occur with no fuss or jerkiness. Buick chose to offer limited manual control for the transmission: only 1st and 2nd gear ratios are directly available via the shift lever-mounted rocker button. The other gears cannot be selected manually, and are not shown on the instrument panel transmission display. We aren't sure why Buick neglected to offer complete manual control for the transmission, which is common in other SUVs. From an enthusiast's perspective, this is a frustrating oversight, but may not make a difference to Enclave's intended clientele.
The new 3.6L DOHC V-6 has world-class power and refinement. With 275 bhp @ 6600 RPM and 251 lb.-ft. @ 3200 RPM, the Enclave accelerates with ease from a standstill. The 6-speed automatic downshifts as required to take advantage of the engine's wide powerband. Engine noise is nicely muted except at full throttle, where a subdued thrum becomes audible. Out on the highway, the free-breathing variable valve timing V-6 doesn't run out of breath at 80 MPH or faster. Although the Enclave is clearly capable of much higher velocities, the soft suspension is no match for the muscular V-6. EPA fuel consumption estimates for the Enclave is 16/24 (FWD, city/highway) or 16/22 (AWD, city/highway). According to the Enclave's trip computer, we averaged 16 MPG in city driving and 23 MPG on the highway, which parallels the EPA estimates.
Buick finally has a competitive new entry in the luxury SUV segment. The Enclave offers an appealing combination of spacious accommodations, a powerful V-6, and a quiet ride. RX350 customers may be tempted by the Enclave's attractive price, and its roomy interior; or they could be put off by materials and build quality not quite up to Lexus standards. Acura and Audi customers probably will not be swayed either, as these more expensive SUVs offer superior handling and greater power than the Buick. In reality, the Enclave (along with the Acadia and Outlook) is a viable alternative for customers looking to get out of bulky, gas-guzzling truck-based SUVs, or others too image-conscious to be seen in a minivan. Many conventional SUV owners will find this Buick's refinement and reasonable fuel economy very persuasive arguments in its favor. In any case, the stylish Enclave is a huge leap forward for Buick, and is certainly a viable contender for customers looking for a good value in a luxury crossover SUV.
