Isn't Grandpa's Buick | 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir Full Tour & Review

[@1964rmcc]

Just purchased this vehicle and like you I never considered a Buick, this replaced my 04 Envoy Xl and I have driven the Palasides and the Grand Cherokee L and my wife and I both felt that the Buick was better fir our needs and our family not to mention the ride was superior we love this CUV!!!!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Good choice!

[@snowrider1952]

I absolutely love mine and I just have the 2018 Enclave! I had never thought about one but after driving other makes and models and then driving the Buick Enckave-I was sold. Cargo space is the best...I just love my Buick!

[@snowrider1952]

Also love the 2 separate driver seat and steering wheel control options.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Glad you're enjoying yours!

[@norcalcasey14]

Hey Nile another great video. The production just keeps getting better and better. It's nice to see they didn't just badge engineer this car. Looks a lot nicer than its competition. Keep up the great work.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thanks! We're really impressed with it too, especially thinking about GM's past with badge engineering. We have a 2018 Escalade right now and the exterior is very similar to the GMC Yukon/Chevrolet Tahoe, but this Buick really felt unique.

[@thomasalagna9354]

Good honest review. My brother in law just purchased a new 2021 Model. Like you I was amazed how good this vehicle is.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Good choice! I'll have to try and get into a new one to see what's changed since we did this one.

[@shia4848]

Thanks for such an amazing review! You really didn't miss anything!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thanks! We know the runtime on this was significantly longer than most of our episodes, but we really wanted to make sure we didn't miss anything.

[@derickcrooms]

This is the second review I've seen on this vehicle where it's noted that there is no interior ambient lighting option. I thought that was interesting for a top trim 2018 Buick model, since I drove a 2015 Traverse that included that feature.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We thought so too, the only always-on lighting was in the storage nook under the centre console. We'd like to see more options in cars for ambient lighting, there's so much potential for it with the way interior design has come along, not to mention low-power options with LED.

[@davidk4682]

Excellent review. Exceptional job here. Very well done. Thank you.

[@PRNTestDrive]

I'm glad you think so, thank you!

[@arthurramalho778]

The new Buick Enclave is a fantastic SUV and it’s beautiful!!! Nice video.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We really enjoyed our time with it, we named it one of our top vehicles for 2018.

[@mariannalacrosse2886]

Thanks for doing a review with snow on the ground.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We get ample amounts of it, I might as well make good use of it!

[@kpf8186]

Now I have to buy one. What a great vehicle. Makes me forget the Volvo.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We thoroughly enjoyed this Buick, and really changed our opinion about the brand itself. We're looking forward to get the chance to try out their other refreshed vehicles, they seem to be really focused on making Buick relevant again.

[@brandont4259]

Hey thanks for reviewing this crossover! Some critiques if you want some are to please give us some better / more varied exterior shots. I don't think there was a single good shot of the rear from head-on, and I would have liked way more profile shots. Also it felt really awkward to hear you explain your bias' in the beginning; everyone knows that every reviewer on earth is going to have some bias', conscious or not, talking about it felt useless to me. Keep up the great work!

[@PRNTestDrive]

We appreciate that, thanks! We wanted to make a quick mention of it since the only other GM vehicle we featured was one we disliked, and wanted to show that our bias was very quickly extinguished by giving the vehicle a chance. Before driving this we pretty much ignored Buick, but now we're seriously considering this to be one of the best vehicles we've driven on TestDrive.

[@sonyhk3824]

It looks nice, great job. Thanks

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thanks! We really liked this crossover.

[@colinstu]

Surprised by how good it is. You might have to try some buick sedans too.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We're hoping too! Right now this was the only Buick available, and we had requested it specifically for our Showdown episode later this month. But we're really looking forward to see what else Buick has to offer.

[@unclewangsgarden8302]

Buick Lacross was awarded as Best New Premium Car of 2017 by AJAC.

[@PRNTestDrive]

The Regal Sportback looks like a pretty nice car too, we're definitely going to get their other vehicles featured on here!

[@bunnytoes7200]

I have one. Question. What is the strip of illuminated stripes that projects onto the driver side windshield. Seat vibrates at same time so much be a warning. Someone following too close?

[@PRNTestDrive]

The other way around, you're following too close to someone else, that's the forward collision alert system, but perhaps the distance is set to 'far' which would trigger the system a lot earlier than required for most drivers.

[@MuffinmanBlueberry]

Thank you for explaining the auto start/stop feature being permanently on! I would have never known if it wasn’t for you!

[@PRNTestDrive]

So far the only GM vehicle we've driven that allows you to override it is the Cadillac CT6. I think it's important to have the option to turn it off if you don't want it, like if you're in stop/go traffic on the highway and need to keep the engine running.

[@aerial360]

@@PRNTestDrive We just test drove this same 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir today and the sales person said you can disable the start/stop feature with an app you can purchase for your phone which can enable disable this and other features. Plus, there's another app for Remote Start you can use on your phone which is nice too since we always have our phones with us right? Anyway, nice review. We're pretty sure this Avenir will replace our 2010 Enclave which has served us well for over 180K miles.

[@pilotdog68]

@@aerial360 do you happen to know what that app is?

[@kingmiller1982]

Great Review, Thank You.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thanks for watching! We featured the Enclave Avenir again in 2023 when they refreshed the exterior design of this vehicle.

[@Tonyx.yt.]

is the mazda adaptive cruise controll realy bad? or is bad only on cx 9 or even in the other mazda like 3 or cx 5?

[@ianhuth37]

Tony x adaptive cruise control is the same across their vehicle lineup I believe that how all car Makers are they wouldn't make different versions of adaptive cruise control in the same company

[@PRNTestDrive]

It's not bad at all, it just operates in a different way than we found on the Buick.

[@ianhuth37]

Awesome review Keyless entry with no key ports is such a dumb idea to me what if the battery dies how do you get in the car or pop the hood? At least easily big problem across most of modern cars And another problem is what's up with the shift pattern lol it's not a manual. Interior is decent looks cheap though? Looks decent overall though

[@PRNTestDrive]

That's certainly a good point. We've got another GM SUV this week, we'll see what the options are to get into the vehicle if the fob's battery runs out!

[@jacobchapman9525]

The front door caps pop off and there's a key in the fob. To start it just put the key in the centre armrest.

[@normt5463]

Segment leader according to Consumer Reports.

[@PRNTestDrive]

It made our Best of 2018 list!

[@louisjames1062]

You can buy those rear view camera mirrors off amazon eBay for £10

[@PRNTestDrive]

I don't doubt that, but I don't think they'd work as well. It's not easy to convey through the video, but the video quality was superb on this, especially with night driving. You could still see out of the back camera even in the dark. I'm sure other cheap options work, but probably wont work as well.

[@bowlman2345]

Is the Chevy Traverse High Country a better deal? Very similar vehicle with almost all of the same features.

[@PRNTestDrive]

That's a good question. We had hoped to do a Showdown episode on GM's mid-to-full size crossovers like the Traverse and GMC Acadia, however we haven't been able to find a dealership out here that we can work with. The basic engineering will be about the same, but the interior trim would be the biggest difference. We do have the GMC Acadia Denali booked in September, we'll see if there's a chance we can line up the Enclave and Traverse at the same time and film something!

[@dantomtishen6582]

Does it have LED fog lights? And auto high beams?

[@PRNTestDrive]

No fog lights at all, which is rather strange from GM. The high beams are automatic and worked quite well to turn off when oncoming traffic was approaching.

[@lynneewestbrook6491]

Looks nice but is it costly for a 2018?

[@PRNTestDrive]

The top-end Enclave is certainly more than the consumer-level crossovers in this size segment, which is something we put to the test in our episode of TestDrive Showdown comparing this to the Infiniti QX60 and Mazda CX-9.

[@nickyl9040]

it needs woodgrain vinyl on its sides and more importantly ; Heated headlights Back in the day when we were using incad headlights the heat of the lamp would melt a hole in heavy snow; that doesn't happen with LEDs

[@PRNTestDrive]

That’s very true about the headlights, however I’ve been testing cars in severe winter conditions for 4 years now and I haven’t had many issues with headlights truly getting covered by snow. Sure if you’re parked it can happen, but for the most part unless it’s truly severe weather I haven’t had any problem. We do look for that though and will continue to this coming winter too.

[@NG-td6yw]

Do the 2018 Buick Enclave has heads up display??

[@PRNTestDrive]

I believe you did get your answer, but just in case anyone else is wondering, the Enclave does not have a heads up display on this model year, even as an option.

[@NG-td6yw]

+Perpetual Radio Networks That's really bad News! what was Buick thinking? I'm pretty sure so many people feel the same way'

[@BennyGeorgenewyork]

Another crazy thing is interior comes in only Chesnut color no other options. Thats a big no no for me.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Mazda does the same with the Signature, only making it available in one interior colour. Definitely a problem if you aren't a fan of brown leather!

[@hook2233]

No HUD - no fog lights. Also no light in Glove box or console. Interior brady wine & chestnut available

[@2steaksandwiches665]

That’s not true, Buick was on The car enthusiast buying list since the Buick grand national GNx from the 80s. Those things in good condition go for big bucks

[@PRNTestDrive]

Was being the operative word. Unfortunately now Buick is nothing more than a premium crossover manufacturer who's still trying to shed the stigma that only old people buy them.

[@linkhatchet]

How is the AWD on this SUV? I don’t really trust these AWD on vechicles these days, I just don’t think it’s as robust as the old 4x4 of the vechivles of yesteryear.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We did have the chance to drive this in some rougher weather, including a snow storm. The AWD system performed beautifully, we had very little trouble with the snow and the traction control might have kicked in once or twice during our week with it.

[@ChristianWebDesign]

Hey Nile how tall are you? I'm tall too and would like to know how tall you are as you mentioned you had more head room for you in this Enclave. Using your height I can use that as a point of reference for my size to see if I might be able to fit comfortably too. Thanks mate.

[@PRNTestDrive]

I'm 183cm/6ft tall, depending on your measurement of choice. Most of these mid-size crossovers are tall enough for taller folks, we've got a friend out here who's easily 6'7 and was able to fit in this without too much issue. Hope that helps!

[@snowrider1952]

My husband is 6'1" and he has plenty of headroom and he doesn't even have the seat all the way down. I love the 2 auto controls for 2 separate drivers.

[@Alisters_Adventures]

Which SUV is softer riding than the Enclave?

[@PRNTestDrive]

The Mazda CX-9 has a pretty smooth ride overall, along with their G-Vectoring Control.

[@vtphan2012]

Is it smooth? Is it comfortable? Is it quiet? Thanks.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Yes to all, we found the Enclave to be one of the best vehicles we drove in 2018!

[@snowrider1952]

Mine is very quiet!

[@DeeeBeee123]

This is MILES ahead of acura & Infiniti. The technology & interior is glamorous. And if you're bias on car brands, you shouldn't be a car review guy. Guys that review cars. Review cars individually. Not a company as a whole.

[@PRNTestDrive]

The Buick Enclave made our top cars of 2018 list when we wrapped up our season back in December. I'm seeing quite a few of these on the road here, especially in the Avenir trim. There's a lot going for it!

[@normt5463]

Biggest crossover in the segment. Not many with 3rd row for adults unlike the Japanese kiddie jump seats.

[@PRNTestDrive]

That's very true! We mentioned at the start how it's strange the Enclave went down from a full-size segment yet got larger. Either way, we think the Enclave is a vehicle more people should consider. We've started seeing more 2018 models on the road over the past couple months.

[@RBBBBBBBBB533]

Do you feel this is worth spending the extra $ over the Mazda CX9?

[@PRNTestDrive]

We're going to be answering that question in about a week and a bit with our Showdown on the Enclave, Infiniti QX60, and Mazda CX-9 Signature. The Mazda has a lot going for it, especially at it's price point, but there are some things about the Buick you just can't get on the Mazda, and vice versa. I think both models will help push each other to improve their offerings with each model year revision.

[@RBBBBBBBBB533]

Perpetual Radio Networks Just got to know that Adaptive Cruise Control is not even an option unless you go for the Avenier Trim. What a dumb move. That's a deal breaker.

[@PRNTestDrive]

That's pretty typical across the board for any of these vehicles. The CX-9 needs GT or higher for it, the Infiniti basically needs every package, and I believe the MDX is also up there in price just to get the adaptive cruise.

[@guysteenburgh5535]

very good ! .

[@PRNTestDrive]

Many thanks!

[@GENTILJEN]

Love it and I agree with you this is not a grandpa car.

[@Tonyx.yt.]

does all women like suv?

[@GENTILJEN]

Tony x not sure about all women but I personally love SUV’s and trucks. I do feel more in control and secure. I am not a very tall women so it’s great to be taller than the others 🙂

[@Tonyx.yt.]

ok, i expected such a answer

[@PRNTestDrive]

Definitely not for grandpas!

[@margaretfoster1165]

IF YOU SET YOUR CRUISE CONTROL TO 110???? & THEN SOMEONE PULLS OUT IN FRONT OF YOU?

[@PRNTestDrive]

If the car has active cruise control it will adjust the speed for you automatically, using that 110 km/h speed as the target/maximum.

[@slimnieves]

Is it true that the it doesn’t have rain sensing wipers!? Please say it ain’t so. For such a top tier car not to have that is insane. I'm also hearing that panoramic moonroof shade is manual?? That would be a downer also!

[@PRNTestDrive]

It's also missing GM's excellent heads up display. We figure it might be due to it being a launch model, perhaps for the 2019 MY they'll add those features in.

[@binhcadillac]

Good car

[@PRNTestDrive]

We think this one is pretty great, and think with a few improvements could be fantastic.

[@terrencebanton9080]

AMERICAN LUXURY ONCE AGAIN

[@louisjames1062]

Terrence Banton we have this euro box in uk too badged as a Vauxhall. Nothing American about it

[@terrencebanton9080]

Louis James General Motors has stake in Vauxhall/Opel also

[@louisjames1062]

Terrence Banton I know, Vauxhall Opel now owned by Peugeot

[@PRNTestDrive]

We definitely felt this car puts the US/GM back on the radar for the premium market. It'll be interesting to see how this segment grows, and what Buick decides to do with the rest of their vehicle lineup.

[@yourerightimwrong4567]

​@@louisjames1062 This one is made in Michigan. That's what he meant by, "American Luxury".

[@zacksalvatore9443]

Don’t say flappy paddles it’s weird, it’s not AMURRICAN. We say paddle shifters

[@Tonyx.yt.]

flappy paddles is british english but this is a murica car because there's no replacement for displacement cit.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Flappy paddles! It's also a Canadian thing ;)

[@ursimplythebest]

Wish women women would review bcz vehicle feels much different for them. Why doesnt review point out the much larger overbearing center console that doesnt move forward or back and provides much less usuable storage. Also makes the driver feel more enclosed...especially if smaller or female. Cannot reach purse due to huge console! I was waiting to upgrade my 2013 enclave but bummed at the limited front row space now and less cup holders in 2nd row.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We'd certainly love to have a female host to provide their thoughts on these vehicles, but the reality is 95% of the viewers of this channel are male between ages 24 and 45. I suspect that's a very similar trend for a lot of other automotive channels out there.

[@MrSupersaiyangoku]

The Enclave isnt midsize. They dropped the weight. Not the size of the thing. Compared to a Chevy Trialblazer. No way this is a midsize suv

[@PRNTestDrive]

We take the information we get from the manufacturer, and they claim it's been dropped down to the mid-size segment. We did mention it got larger in the video so we agree that it's confusing. We're actually not sure what the requirements are for each segment, so it might be more than just overall length.

[@mrvang8077]

Ehhh... looks okay. It's not my kind of bodystyle suv. I like the Traverse version much better.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Fair enough! Both have gotten big overhauls for this year, vastly different looks for both the Enclave (2024) and Traverse (2025).

[@NG-td6yw]

No heads up display would be the reason I won't be buying this 2018 Buick Enclave' My 05 Buick Park Avenue has a heads up display' very best and safe.... maybe the 2019 will be the year because I really was planning on buying a new Enclave' I'm very disappointed...😣😕😟😤

[@PRNTestDrive]

I was disappointed too, considering we’ve driven a couple other GM vehicles after this one and they use an excellent HUD. I’m not sure if they left it out on purpose, in order to add it for 2019, or there’s a legitimate reason for its absence.

[@NG-td6yw]

+Perpetual Radio Networks Maybe so' hopefully next year' Very Nice SUV. maybe buying a after market HUD would help and Thanks👍

[@PRNTestDrive]

We're expecting it to come for 2019, considering the tech is there on a lot of other GM vehicles, and especially at this price point it's something that should be available.

[@luccib7225]

Cx9 signature is a better crossover if you ask me

[@PRNTestDrive]

Definitely a lot to like about the CX-9, we've driven a number of them since featuring this Buick.

[@NG-td6yw]

To be honest' I seen one the other day' the only way I knew it was a Buick is because of the emblem on the front grille' the one looked like a Jewel " A BUICK" This one looks like OK' I can wear the same suit your wearing.... and please GM? This thing doesn't even have a HUD/Heads Up Display. Excuse me just stating my opinion as I shall respect yours even if we don't agree on the same topic.

[@PRNTestDrive]

We were disappointed it didn't have a HUD either, and unfortunately this was the first GM product we got directly from them, so we hadn't experienced their excellent HUD yet. I imagine we'll see it come for the 2019 or 2020 models, often manufacturers will omit some features on a new generation in order to add them a few years later, call it cost recovery for the launch of a new vehicle.

[@NG-td6yw]

+Perpetual Radio Networks Hopefully 2019" they need to stop this not your grandpa car anymore' My 05 Buick Park Avenue even has HUD/rain sensor wipers' etc....even grandpa's want a Buick with some chrome and old school flare with a soft and comfortable ride..take care and Thanks for the info'

[@PRNTestDrive]

That's very true! I think they're working hard to improve the image of the brand, we're looking forward to see what the future holds for Buick. They're on our radar for the first time!

[@ThamilNesan]

We don't know why GM Buick brings very comfortable beautiful or pleasant look designed vehicles to the market than any body else but their vehicles quality are realy sucks always gives headaches and unnecessary maintenance expenses Why????? I really don't get it I love their design but why their vehicles are not worth for longtime to keep and enjoy like those years in 60s 70s models that's why we have to go for Toyota or may be Honda

[@PRNTestDrive]

Fair enough

[@ThamilNesan]

Now Mazda comes behind to Toyota and Honda, people are saying on models 2018, So what's the real problem on Buick, isn't that shame for North American Automotive industry, on the global wise Chinese made BYD is leading and going sharing EV Hybrid technology to Toyota, I ve read but these guys NEVER MIND we are on our own type 😂