For drivers looking for the drivability and function of regular midsize SUVs alongside the convenient luxury features of higher-end models, the Buick Enclave feels like refreshing middle ground. Aside from a few optional tweaks here and there, the 2020 model comes with no major changes and remains part of the second generation of Enclaves that made their debut in 2018. After all, why fix what isn't broken? This latest edition comes with all the features that made it popular over the past couple of years, such as a hands-free liftgate, push button engine start, Android connectivity and Apple CarPlay, roomy three-row seating (for up to seven people), and an impressive 98 feet of cargo space. The vehicle also offers a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot with available 4G LTE data, along with a convenient wireless charging pad.
As for trims, the 2020 Buick Enclave is offered in four different packages: the Preferred, the Essence, the Premium and the top tier Avenir. It's worth noting that the main differences between all four trim levels are in their luxury and safety features, and all of them come standard with a 9-speed automatic transmission and the same 3.6-liter V6 engine with 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. However, the Preferred base trim comes only in front-wheel drive, while the other three trims are offered in both front or all-wheel drive. Performance-wise, the Enclave drives smoothly and gets an average of 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway (not the best fuel economy out there, but pretty standard for today's SUVs). The vehicle can also tow up to 1,500 lbs.
The Preferred does come with a slew of its own desirable features, like LED headlights, heated front seats, 60/40-split folding third-row seating bench, rear parking sensors, rearview camera, and modern 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. But for those looking for a more enhanced driving experience, the higher trims start to pile on more features in terms of luxury, tech and, importantly, safety. For example, the Essence adds on leather upholstery and an enhanced cabin air filter for better air flow, along with more advanced safety features like Blind Spot Alert, Lane Change Alert and the innovative Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Essence customers also get access to a slew of other options not available on the Preferred, like an advanced towing package and an upgraded infotainment system.
The Premium trim comes even better equipped, with comfy features like ventilated front seats, automatic high beam capabilities and heated rear seats. The vehicle is also more advanced when it comes to safety features, coming standard with tech like lane keep assist, front park assist, forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking and front parking sensors. The trim also comes with an upgraded a 10-speaker Bose surround sound system, complete with a sub woofer and amplifier. Also with the Premium trim, customers have a variety of upgrade options like Buick's advanced towing package (making the vehicle capable of towing up to 5,000 lbs). The Premium also comes with additional wheel size, power moonroof and color options.
The top tier Avenir comes with a lot of the features that are only optional on the lower tiers, along with a bevvy of its own luxury goods. Drivers enjoy upgraded premium leather upholstery (available in chestnut and ebony), 20-inch wheels, driver seat memory settings, 8-inch configurable driver information screen, power sunroof and an accented steering wheel with real wood, among other things. The Avenir also comes with various upgrade options of its own, including an advanced tech package that adds on forward automatic braking, premium suspension and adaptive cruise control. While the handling of the Avenir may not feel significantly different than the lower trim levels, it certainly offers a more refined driving and passenger experience.
As far as pricing goes, the 2020 Buick Enclave ranges in starting price from $40,000 to $56,100 (dependent on trim level and location, of course). While the majority of Buick's special buying and lease offers are for the 2019 models and back, buyers interested in the 2020 may be eligible for one of their ongoing discount programs. These include discounts for recent graduates, educators, military members, and first responders. Qualified buyers may also be able to defer their monthly payments for the first 90 days.