More than likely you won't hear the words "change" and "2011 Buick Enclave" uttered in the same sentence. Other than a new wheel design on its top two trim levels, and a few new exterior-color choices, Enclave rolls into 2011 unchanged.
For an extra $2,000, you can substitute all-wheel drive for front-wheel drive on any of the three trim levels. My test Enclave was the top-end $42,870 CXL2 model. There is also the $36,390 entry-level CX and the mid-priced $39,505 CXL1. My test Enclave had AWD.
Regardless the trim level or the number of drive wheels, every Enclave draws its get-up-and-go from a 288-horsepower 3.6-liter V6. Escorting engine output to the wheels falls to a six-speed driver-shiftable automatic transmission. This combination delivers smooth, energetic acceleration. The foul-weather AWD system is transparent with power automatically shifting from slipping wheels to those with grip. Although it can take Enclave off pavement onto dirt or gravel surfaces, it is not engineered for off roading. When properly equipped, Enclave can tow up to 4,500 pounds.
Opting for AWD scrubs a mile or two per gallon from the fuel economy measures. FWD versions deliver an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway; while those with AWD get an EPA-estimated 16 mpg and 22 mpg respectively.
When describing Enclave's quality of ride, you could just as easily be characterizing the ride in Buick's top-of-the-line LaCrosse sedan. Its four-wheel independent suspension soaks up all but the most severe surface imperfections. With MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link setup in the rear, the architecture is tuned more for comfort than handling, but that fits with Enclave's people-hauling mission.
Lurking behind all four wheels are ventilated disc brakes monitored by an antilock system. Traction control, stability control, electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency braking assist are all part of the package. If the worst does happen and a collision can't be avoided, Enclave earned the federal government's top frontal and side crash-test scores of five stars. Moreover, OnStar, standard on all Enclaves, features the Advanced Crash Response System that will automatically call an OnStar adviser when an airbag deploys, who can then summon emergency help to the crash site.
Delivering on what the exterior design promises, the interior styling is elegant as well as practical. The standard seating arrangement accommodates seven; however, the second-row captains seats can be replaced with a three-passenger bench seat, increasing passenger capacity to eight, at no additional charge. A 60/40 split fold-flat, reclining bench seat occupies the third-row position.
With all seats in position, there are just over 23 cubic feet of luggage space. Folding the second-row seat backs down and the third-row seat flat balloons cargo space to 115 cubic feet. This is more maximum cargo room that some key competitors, such as the Lexus RX350 at 80.3 cubic feet or the Acura MDX with 83.5 cubic feet. Accessing the cargo hold is made easy thanks to the rear power liftgate that is standard on every Enclave.
The first- and second-row captain's seats offer generous cushions and decent lateral support. Both CXL trims have available, as a $300 option, a second-row center console with a large storage bin, 12V power outlet and cupholders. A tilt and telescoping wood and leather-covered steering wheel -- power operated in the CXL versions -- with redundant audio controls is standard. An owner of almost any GM vehicle built in the last few years will feel right at home with the controls for the six-speaker audio system with CD player, satellite radio and auxiliary input jack that comes in the CX and CXL1. Likewise the controls for the three-zone automatic climate control can be operated without consulting the owner's manual.
Every Enclave comes with six airbags, Bluetooth cell phone connectivity, cruise control, full power accessories, heated outboard mirrors, remote keyless entry and power-adjustable front seats. Moving up to the CXL1 adds leather seating, rear parking assist, backup camera with a small display in the rearview mirror and heated front seats. Cranking up the content level another notch, the CXL2 adds articulating headlamps, ventilated front seats, power-folding outboard mirrors and a 10-speaker Bose-infused surround-sound system with a USB port.
There are a number of other competent midsized crossovers out there vying for attention; however, the Enclave with its affordable price, attractive styling and scads of standard features is an excellent value among upscale competitors. It certainly stands up next to other popular crossovers like the RX350 and MDX. With several minivans priced at $35,000 and more, Enclave more than qualifies as a viable minivan alternative, as well as a more fuel-efficient and more civilized option for full-size SUV intenders.
