You'd hardly know it from looking at one, but the current Buick Enclave is getting a little long inn the tooth. It was back in 2007 that we bought our long term car and now, in nearly 2012, we're finally looking at the next generation of Enclave.
The first think to notice from these prototypes is the size: The Enclave is not downsizing. Fuel economy standards or not, there's always going to be a market in America for something that will seat 7 comfortably and Buick doesn't appear to have an interest in giving up that market.
Beyond that we're looking at a restyled grille with longer, thinner grille slats spaced further apart than on the current Enclave or on any other Buick vehicle. Out back we're looking at, well, mostly just a much better job with camo than in the front.
While we didn't get any photos of the interior we have to assume it will get many of the same materials upgrades as the rest of the Buick line. In 2013, the Enclave is getting Buick's Intellilink system which will certainly make its way to this vehicle the following year.
mbukukanyau says:
12:49 PM, 12/ 5/11
My wifes next ride
dsulli37 says:
12:52 PM, 12/ 5/11
I think that'll be a 2013 model...not a '14.
bassrockerx says:
01:19 PM, 12/ 5/11
I can dig it. Would have to cross shop with the Chrysler version of the durango.
threemopars says:
05:40 PM, 12/ 5/11
"Would have to cross shop with the Chrysler version of the durango."
There isn't.
lostboyz says:
03:38 AM, 12/ 6/11
There might be the wagoneer which would be the luxury full sized
deanoflas says:
07:32 AM, 12/ 6/11
overhaul is desperately needing, current model grew long in the tooth about 3 years ago
hotrodw says:
08:26 AM, 12/ 6/11
I know people are sick of crossovers, but shouldn't Buick offer something a little smaller than the Enclave? After all, the SRX is Caddy's best selling model. Something between the SRX and Terrain in price and content would be ideal. 2.4L turbo four and/or 3.6L V6 sounds about right for the market.
robs249 says:
08:54 AM, 12/ 6/11
borrrrrrrrring! Where has the new Tahoe, Yukon, & Escalade been hiding?!
mbukukanyau says:
09:01 AM, 12/ 6/11
@hotrodw ; I beleive there is a mule and a concept that has already been shown. and since GMC and buick share a showroom, one could always pick up a V6 terrain. Very competent vehicle.
blueprint1 says:
09:41 AM, 12/ 6/11
Seems quite similar to the current rig ... is this one of those revise-the-lights-and-bumpers redo?
inlinesix says:
10:15 AM, 12/ 6/11
Enclave.....the FWD/AWD, heavy, large, 8-passenger, $40,000, SUV that can't tow more than 2,000 lbs.
Fail.
(btw I actually looked at one because I like the HIDs, good seating, and the looks) Got a used Sequoia instead.
greenpony says:
10:34 AM, 12/ 6/11
inlinesix: Do you like your Sequoia? My wife is actually cross-shopping these two vehicles. She likes the size and capability of the Sequoia, but prefers the looks and interior of the Enclave. What made you choose a Sequoia instead?
hemi_ownz_u says:
02:17 PM, 12/ 6/11
@greenpony
Probably brain damage.
dace1 says:
11:36 AM, 12/10/11
inlinesix if you are going to make statements make sure they are accurate. The enclave can tow 4500 pounds. Mini vans can tow 3000 where did you get 2000? I almost got the enclave but got the acadia because it tows 5200 do to stiffer suspension. I do not want you shopping for me. Anyone knows that the two are not in the same class and that the yukon is just as good if not better then the seqouia.
fairtonboy says:
08:17 PM, 02/ 5/12
I own a 2009 Buick Enclave, and you would have to rip my cold hand grip off the steering wheel. I love this cross over. The next generation, looks like a slight re-do. i am glad they kept the Enclave the same size. I am 6'5 and have all the room in the world to drive, car pool, and even used the compartments to load a 7' grandfathers clock inside with the rear hatch closed and locked. Nicest on planet earth. But then again i have had a B
uick in my drive way since I could drive. 17-59! It's in the Blood!