2022 Buick Enclave

If you're in the market for a mid-sized premium SUV with seven seats, perhaps the 2022 Buick Enclave will fit the bill. The Tri-shield badge may not have the same cachet as European rivals like the Volvo XC90, but the base price of $42,800 makes up for that. The Enclave is so much more than a cut-price alternative, though - it's got a few talents of its own.

The 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 provides ample performance and, depending on your needs, can be equipped with FWD or AWD. The Enclave receives a buttery-smooth nine-speed automatic transmission that suits its laid-back persona.

Three trim levels are available in the USA, with prices ranging from $42,800 to $57,100 depending on the drivetrain and trim. But, in a segment bustling with competition such as the XC90 and the more dynamic Acura MDX, is the updated seven-seater deserving of your attention?

The 2022 facelift has breathed new life into the Enclave. Now sporting a redesigned front end, the demure SUV looks classier than ever before, courtesy of slimmer headlights, a revised grille, and a new hood. Fresh wheel designs spruce up the side profile while round back, you'll find unique Evonik LED taillights and chrome liftgate garnish. Compared to the anonymous 2021 model, it's a big improvement.

LED headlights and DRLs are standard across the range, but the Avenir is privy to Evonik LEDs. Essence and Premium trims receive 18-inch wheels as standard, but larger wheels are available at an extra cost. Naturally, the Avenir receives 20-inch items. It's also the only model to receive a power moonroof as standard; although Essence and Premium buyers can elect to specify this luxury. Interestingly, only the base Essence is available with the Sport Touring Package, which gives the large SUV a slightly sporty look, courtesy of the 20-inch machine-faced wheels and unique badging.

The dimensions of the Buick Enclave SUV remain largely unchanged for 2022. The mid-size premium vehicle measures 204.8 inches in length (0.5 in longer) and, courtesy of the 120.9-inch wheelbase, there's plenty of occupant space. It's a vast brute; the Enclave is 89.3 inches wide (side mirrors included) and 69.9 inches tall (luggage rack included).

The Enclave is a heavy SUV. Scales groan under the mass of the Avenir AWD which weighs in at 4,685 pounds. The AWD models are heavier than their front-wheel-drive counterparts with the base Essence FWD tipping the scales at 4,359 lbs. This means the Buick is not only longer and wider than the XC90 but, in range-topping guise, it's portlier too. The Enclave can't match the Swede's 8.8 inches of ground clearance; it sits 7.5 inches off the ground.

For 2022, the Enclave receives three new paint options. Sage Metallic and Emperor Blue Metallic are both available for an additional $495, with Cherry Red Tintcoat commanding $595. Interestingly, the Avenir isn't available with the latter scarlet hue.

For the Essence and Premium trims, the only no-cost option is Summit White. Ebony Twilight (black) and Quicksilver carry a $495 premium while White Frost Tintcoat commands $1,095. In keeping with its posher image, the Avenir receives more demure color choices; Rich Garnet Metallic is exclusive to the range-topper. White Frost remains an option, although it's cheaper at $600.

The 2022 Enclave SUV is available with just one engine. The naturally-aspirated 3.6-liter V6 boasts sufficient outputs of 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Regardless of trim, all models receive a nine-speed automatic gearbox which sends the power to the front or all four wheels, depending on the chosen configuration.

Buick doesn't specify top speed or acceleration figures, but independent testing shows the Enclave can reach 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds. In the grand scheme of things, outright performance is of little importance to the Enclave's target market. Still, 310 hp is more than enough to propel the SUV along at a decent rate of speed.

If you require the Enclave to lug heavy items around, you'll be pleased to know the Buick has a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs when equipped with the $650 Trailering Package. This bests the XC90's rating of 4,000 lbs (5,000 for the T5 FWD) and beats the Acura MDX's 3,500 lbs figure although, when equipped with AWD, the Japanese rival can also tow 5,000 lbs.

As mentioned, the Enclave is available with just one engine/gearbox combination although buyers can, at least, choose between FWD and AWD configurations. In town, the Enclave exhibits exceptional cruising abilities. The 3.6-liter V6 is nicely hushed but prod the throttle and a pleasant engine note will permeate the cabin. It produces 310 hp and 266 lb-ft.

In everyday driving, there's very little to complain about; it's perfectly capable of merging onto the highway safely and has plenty of overtaking prowess. Part of this is down to the quick down changes afforded by the nine-speed auto 'box, allowing you to get a move on when required.

Despite the sizeable dimensions, the Enclave is very easy to navigate through traffic. Perhaps it isn't as refined as the European competition, but the Buick still provides a relaxed driving experience. In-gear acceleration is adequate, but the sportier Acura MDX Type S is more proficient in hurtling forward quickly when the need arises.

One of the Enclave's biggest selling points is the sumptuous ride quality. It is beautifully composed over rough surfaces and dismisses bumps and potholes with ease. It rides nearly as well as a plusher Cadillac and wipes the floor with most of its firm-riding European rivals.

It's certainly not unwieldy, but the Enclave will struggle to keep up with an MDX or BMW X5 through a set of sharp corners. There's notable body roll and pushing the Enclave beyond its limits will result in understeer. A civilized approach to commuting will reward you with a calming driving experience.

As part of an optional package, the Avenir can be equipped with adaptive damping which should, theoretically, improve the ride. It does little to improve the driving dynamics, though - the Enclave isn't engaging to drive at all.

The brakes are satisfactory but the same can't be said for the steering feedback; it is utterly devoid of any feel. This may sound like a complaint, but we applaud Buick for not attempting to dress its largest model up with sporting pretensions. The Enclave's objective is to be a beautifully refined and comfortable cruiser, something it does very well.

Despite the available all-wheel drive, the Enclave isn't a vehicle we recommend venturing off-road with. It's not built for jaunts in the desert, however, the all-paw derivative will come in handy in colder climates where snow and ice can impede progress.

Even for an SUV with a gas-powered 3.6-liter V6 and plenty of weight to lug about, the Enclave's fuel economy is rather poor. The EPA rates the front-wheel-drive model at 18/26/21 mpg on city/highway/combined cycles. The all-paw derivative is worse still, at 17/25/20 mpg. By comparison, the Volvo XC90 T5 (FWD) obtains better gas mileage, with an impressive 21/30/25 mpg.

At least the Enclave has a decently sized gas tank. FWD models have a fuel tank capacity of 19.4 gallons while AWD versions receive a slightly bigger 21.7-gallon item. Theoretically, the duo should be capable of traveling up to 407 and 434 miles on a tank, respectively. As for gas type, the Enclave does not require premium gasoline.

Along with sharper exterior styling, Buick has also taken the opportunity to revamp the interior for the new model year. Step inside the sizeable cabin and you'll be greeted by a new steering wheel and reworked center console - some won't take a liking to the clumsy push-button shifter, though.

Once seated, you'll appreciate the more supportive pews; the automaker introduced new trim choices and has enhanced the seat foam, too. The Avenir gets a few unique touches which include model-specific interior elements. While premium-feeling, the Enclave can't quite match the MDX or XC90 in terms of perceived quality but does, at least, feel solid.

The new Buick Enclave can't be faulted in terms of passenger room, though. The interior is commodious and offers space for up to seven people. Equally impressive are the standard specs. Even the base Essence ships standard with seven airbags, power adjustment for the front seats, a heated steering wheel, and leather upholstery.

We arrive at what is the Enclave's strong suit. There's seating for up to seven occupants across three rows. Up front, there's plenty of room for even the tallest passengers to stretch out and it's a similar story in the second row, where you'll find individual captain's chairs. There is as much as 41.2 and 38.3 inches of legroom in the first and second rows, respectively.

Unfortunately, the rearmost bench seat offers just 33.5 inches of legroom. It is cramped back there; adults and taller children will be able to fit in at a squeeze. Happily, smaller kids will find the rear quarters perfectly spacious. The Buick's third row is still more spacious than many rivals, including the XC90.

If you're over six feet tall, might we suggest steering away from sunroof-equipped models? It robs as much as 1.4 inches of headroom from the front row (one inch from the second), which could make a difference if you're taller than most. No matter your shape or size, getting in and out of the Enclave is no hardship. The doors open nice and wide allowing parents to load kids and car seats with ease.

Once onboard, the leather-trimmed seats will impress - they are very comfortable and offer plenty of support, especially on longer trips. Rear outward visibility isn't the greatest but the Enclave's rearview camera and sizeable side mirrors should make low-speed maneuvering a touch easier.

For 2022, Buick offers the same two upholstery colors across all three grades. Dark Galvanized (Buick speak for black) or Whisper Beige are the only choices and, on the Essence and Premium, are paired with tasteful Ebony interior inlays.

These models receive plush perforated leather seating as standard, with the plush material extending to the door cards and steering wheel for a more sumptuous experience. Those wanting an even more luxurious experience should opt for the range-topping Avenir. The poshest model in the lineup is privy to a classy diamond cross-stitching effect on the seats and also gains a wood-trimmed tiller. Sadly, the Avenir is longer available with last year's attractive Chestnut upholstery. With the discontinuation of the Preferred trim, cloth seating isn't available either.

It may not be quite as premium-feeling as its closest rivals, but there's still a distinct feeling of quality to be found within the Enclave's cabin. For the most part, the plastics feel soft to the touch but some of the switches and dials serve as a reminder of the Buick's less than premium underpinnings.

Thanks to the large exterior dimensions, the Enclave is blessed with plenty of cargo space. Even with the third row in place, there's a sizeable 23.6 cubic feet up for grabs; plenty of space for a monthly grocery run. If you need more space, the 60/40 split-folding third-row can be manually folded to increase cargo space to 57.7 cu ft. This compares well with the XC90, which has a paltry 35.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed away.

With the second row of seats not in use, Buick clams the Avenir can swallow 97.4 cu ft of cargo. What's more, if you include the underfloor storage space, you've got more than 100 cubes at your disposal, making the Enclave a truly practical proposition. If we had to nit-pick, the raised cargo floor can make loading heavier items a bit of a challenge.

At least there are plenty of nifty storage spaces littered across the cabin. The center console is deep and can be used to store larger items. It also comes with an admittedly cheap-feeling tray that can, at least, be used to store coins and other smaller things. The glovebox is decently sized and, together with the large door pockets, provides plenty of in-car storage solutions. Naturally, each row of seats receives its own set of cupholders.

All Enclave models are generously equipped. Even the base Essence trim receives leather-trimmed seats with heating for the front passengers, cruise control, tri-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, a heated steering wheel, and power-adjustable front seats.

The mid-spec Premium builds on this by adding second-row heated seats and the brilliant digital rear camera mirror. Those seated in the front of the Premium benefit the most. The pews gain ventilation and a memory setting for the driver, while the manually-adjustable steering column found in the Essence makes way for power adjustment. The head-up display is a great addition, too.

Lastly, the Avenir is positively bristling with features. Here, the optional power moonroof becomes standard and the regular cruise control is replaced with a more modern adaptive system. As befitting a car with $40,000+ pricing, the Enclave ships standard with an array of safety features.

All models receive Buick's Driver Confidence Plus Package, which boasts features such as lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision alert, and automatic emergency braking, to name a few. A backup camera is, of course, standard. The top two trims have a surround-vision system.

The feature-rich infotainment system has received an update for 2022. The new model year sees the welcome addition of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all models, including the base Essence trim.

The entry-level model utilizes an intuitive eight-inch touchscreen with standard Bluetooth, USB, and aux ports. A handy convenience feature comes in the form of the Siri EyesFree voice controls for the radio and phone.

In the Premium and Avenir, buyers can look forward to standard navigation, while the base six-speaker sound system is supplanted by a crisp-sounding Bose premium audio system with an additional four speakers. A three-month subscription to SiriusXM with 360L is also standard across all trims, along with wireless phone charging.

The infotainment system itself is straightforward to use. It's not the best in terms of crispness and clarity, but there's minimal lag, and the touchscreen responds to inputs quickly enough. That being said, it's not the most exciting to look at and feels a touch outdated when compared to what other luxury brands are doing.

Owners of the 2022 Enclave rate the crossover very highly. According to J.D. Power, the dealership experience is superb (89/100), but quality and reliability could be improved, with a middling 78/100 rating. The overall Buick Enclave rating sits at 80/100.

It's not without its faults, though. 2022 models have already been recalled for a problem relating to the roof rail side airbags. Incompatible electrical components could lead to the airbag not deploying in a crash and, while that's serious, just 89 units are affected. Some 2021 models were affected by this too, along with front airbag deployment issues. Things do seem to be getting better, though; 2020 models were recalled for as many as six issues, ranging from airbag to fuel supply issues.

Should you choose to sign on the dotted line, you'll be pleased to know that the Enclave is offered with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty, as well as a powertrain/drivetrain limited warranty and roadside assistance for five years/60,000 miles. One scheduled maintenance visit should keep running costs down in the first year.

The NHTSA is yet to conduct a complete 2022 Enclave review, only evaluating the model for the rollover test for which it attained four starts. The 2021 model was comprehensively tested and received the maximum five-star rating from the government agency, although the frontal crash and rollover scores were four stars.

The IIHS awarded the Enclave the best possible score of 'Good' in most categories, but the car failed to achieve the organization's Top Safety Pick or Safety Pick+ rating. In an update side crash test, the Buick's 'Good' rating was downgraded to 'Acceptable'.

The 2022 Enclave has seven airbags; dual front, curtain (for all three rows), front side-impact, and a driver's inboard seat-mounted side-impact airbag. The three respective trims are blessed with high levels of safety equipment, courtesy of the standard Buick Driver Confidence Plus Package.

This comprehensive safety suite includes automatic emergency braking, rear park assist, automatic high beam assist, lane-keep assist, lane change alert (with a blind spot monitor), and lane departure warning, among other things. Adaptive cruise control is standard fitment on the Avenir but is available on the Essence and Premium optionally. A rearview camera is standard on all but the top two trims also have a surround-view monitor.

Parents will be pleased to know the LATCH child seat tethering system is also standard across the range.

On paper, the 2022 Buick Enclave is a first-rate (but bland) alternative to pricey premium offerings. But it's not as simple as that. When consumers are spending over $40,000 on a vehicle, they expect a bit more prestige and presence than the Buick badge can provide.

As an image purchase, the Enclave falls flat - even in Avenir trim. But, if you can look past the fairly dowdy image and the uninspiring dynamics, you'll come to realize that the 2022 Enclave is a handsome, comfortable and practical family SUV.

The facelift has brought a host of improvements to the range and, if you're looking for a sensible seven-seater with a few frills and a plush ride, the Buick is certainly worth considering. The Volvo, as good as it is, is more expensive and doesn't offer as much cargo space or room for occupants.

If you can live with the miserable gas mileage and anonymous image, you'll be very pleased owning an Enclave. Value for money is one of the biggest plus points here and, to get an even better deal, we'd recommend looking at pre-owned, late models for sale. If your heart is set on a 2022 Enclave, look no further than the mid-spec Premium model. It's the most sensible of the bunch.

The price of the Buick Enclave is one of its strong points. The base Essence model weighs in with a base MSRP of $42,800, while the mid-spec Premium will set you back $49,800. Avenir pricing is considerably higher, at $55,100. Across the range, all-wheel-drive commands a $2,000 premium.

These prices are exclusive of licensing, registration, tax, and incentives, as well as Buick's $1,395 destination freight charge.

The 2022 Enclave range comprises three trims; Essence, Premium, and Avenir, all available with FWD or optional AWD. Regardless of which grade you opt for, all models are powered by the same naturally-aspirated 3.6-liter V6 mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its entry-level positioning, the Essence comes with leather upholstery, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a heated steering wheel and front seats (with power adjustment), keyless entry and push-button start, an automatic liftgate, tri-zone climate control, LED headlights, a six-speaker sound system, seven airbags, and the comprehensive Buick Driver Confidence Plus Package safety suite. 18-inch wheels are standard, although 20s are available at extra cost.

The Premium builds on this already impressive list of features; opting for the mid-spec model ushers in a head-up display for the driver, seat heating for second-row passengers, and seat ventilation for those seated up front. What's more, the conventional rear-facing camera is supplanted for a superior surround-view system which, together with the digital rearview mirror, makes navigating tricky situations easier.

For audiophiles, there's a sweet-sounding 10-speaker Bose audio system. Further convenience is afforded by memory settings for the driver's power seat, along with a power-adjustable steering column. Lastly, the infotainment system gains integrated navigation.

The Avenir doesn't bring that much more to the party, save for the standard sunroof and adaptive cruise control. It does, however, receive 20-inch rims as standard and unique interior and exterior detailing. Its cabin materials are also the nicest of the bunch.

Buyers have a wide array of extra packages to choose from. The Essence and Premium are available with several, such as the $2,850 Touring Package. This is merely an aesthetic enhancement, as it adds sporty 20-inch wheels and integrated side steps. The $1,695 Sport Touring Edition remains the reserve of the Essence and gives a more athletic look, courtesy of a sport grille, 20-inch wheels, and unique badging.

Another Essence exclusive is the Sounds and Sites Package. For $1,555, the base model receives the desirable Bose sound system and onboard navigation. This and the Technology Package are the most sensible extras for the Essence, with the latter adding adaptive cruise control, enhanced automatic emergency braking, and a rear camera mirror with washer for a reasonable $1,450.

The mid-spec Premium is privy to the $1,995 Adaptive Cruise and Wheel Package which brings, you guessed it, adaptive cruise control and polished 20-inch wheels to the fray. The Experience Buick Package is best avoided; at $2,795, it's a pricey bundle for a panoramic sunroof and 20-inch alloys.

Lastly, the range-topper is available with the Avenir Technology Package. The $1,595 option includes unique LED headlights and variable damping suspension. If you're buying the halo model, you might as well add this to the $55,100 price.

If it was our money, we'd opt for the mid-spec Premier as it strikes a fine balance between value for money and luxury. The cheaper, more economical $49,800 FWD model would be our choice. To lend the reserved SUV some presence, we would gladly fork out $595 for the Cherry Red paintwork and an additional $1,995 for the Adaptive Cruise and Wheel Package. This brings enhanced safety and better-looking wheels. That would bring the total price up to $52,090, which, when you consider the standard equipment, represents exceptional value.

The Volvo XC90 may be the poster child for plush seven-seaters but, as we've found out in this Buick Enclave review, it's not quite as spacious as the American alternative, and it's pricier, too. Still, it has many attributes the Buick can't match. The styling may be subjective, but the XC90 has far more road presence courtesy of its minimalist Swedish design.

The interior is also built to a higher standard and feels far more upmarket than the Buick. Traditionalists may not like the four-pot power, but even the base model has decent outputs of 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. If you thought the Buick had impressive passenger protection, the Volvo will blow you over with its long list of safety features. As such, the Volvo was awarded the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and, for some, that's well worth the extra outlay.

If performance is just as important as practicality, the Buick (or Volvo, for that matter) won't be to your liking. Yes, the Enclave is comfortable, but it can't thrill like the Acura MDX. The Japanese rival looks phenomenal and, despite lower power outputs of 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, it feels quicker than the Buick. Aside from that, it's more engaging in the bends, with communicative steering and well-sorted suspension. We'd go so far as to say the MDX is possibly the most exciting midsized seven-seater available in the US.

It doesn't ride quite as well as the cushier American, but is just as refined and offers superior build quality and a more modern interior. It scores better in terms of safety, too. This comes at a price though; the MDX has a starting MSRP of $48,000 - notably higher than the Buick Enclave's cost to entry. But, if money is no object, go for the 355-horsepower Type S - it can sprint from 0-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds.