2025 Buick Enclave review

The 2025 Buick Enclave launches the third generation of the brand’s flagship SUV, and it arrives with significant updates over the outgoing version. Featuring exterior styling influenced by the Buick Wildcat EV concept, the Enclave’s redesign completes the refresh of the entire Buick lineup. The changes inside are just as extensive, with a unique floating center console design and a futuristic-looking 30-inch screen incorporating the digital gauge cluster and infotainment display. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ come standard on all trim levels. 

The third-generation Enclave is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Representing a notable bump in power compared to the outgoing V6, the new engine delivers strong performance, but it gets noisy at higher rpm. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trim levels. The 2025 Enclave is also the first Buick to offer Super Cruise®, GM’s advanced hands-free driver-assist system.

When the second-generation Enclave arrived in 2018, it was considerably larger than its predecessor, offering a roomier interior for all three rows. Seven-passenger seating was standard, with second-row captain’s chairs found on all Enclave trims. The second-generation Enclave had an extensive standard feature list at launch, including Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, multiple USB ports, tri-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry and start. Four trim levels were offered, including the high-end Avenir. In 2022, the Enclave received a significant refresh that moved the Avenir to a higher plane with a unique exterior style, quilted leather upholstery, and massaging front seats.

Power was upgraded for the second generation—all Enclaves came with a 3.6-liter V6 engine teamed with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard across the board, with all-wheel drive offered on all but the base-level trim. When the Enclave was updated in 2022, it gained a range of advanced driver-assist features, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance.

The first Buick Enclave arrived in 2008, moving upscale from the aging Rendezvous SUV it replaced. Built on the same platform as the Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia, the new Enclave had seating for up to eight passengers and an impressive cargo area. The third row could accommodate adults without too much complaining, and with a 60/40 split, it could be folded flat for added cargo-carrying capability. Second-row captain’s chairs were available for a more upscale experience, and higher-end materials as well as the eggshell-blue ambient lighting provided a premium vibe. 

The 2008 Enclave launched with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, and that engine was upgraded with more power and direct-injection technology just one year later. A six-speed automatic transmission was standard, and with the standard front-wheel drive, the Enclave achieved an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined (18 mpg with all-wheel drive)