The 2011 Buick Enclave, a jewel in the crown of midsize SUVs, has been turning heads and winning hearts since its debut. It isn't just the allure of its sleek design that captivates, but the harmonious blend of comfort and utility it offers. Imagine an oasis of tranquility in rush hour traffic, a sanctuary where noise and chaos are effortlessly tuned out. That's the Enclave for you - a smooth and quiet ride unlike any other. With ample cargo space that could put a moving van to shame and tech features that would make a Silicon Valley geek swoon, the 2011 Enclave elevates the driving experience to new heights. Truly, this isn't just an upgrade - it's a game-changer.
Read on to learn more about the 2011 Buick Enclave.
The interior of the 2011 Buick Enclave radiates an upscale atmosphere, largely attributed to its stylish dashboard and tasteful wood-grain inlays. However, this elegance is slightly marred by the abundant chrome trim which can cause blinding reflections under certain sunlight angles. The audio and climate controls are somewhat let down by small and indistinct buttons. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Enclave's cabin remains one of the roomiest in the crossover SUV segment, giving it a distinct edge over its competitors.
The Enclave offers generous cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third-row seat, expanding to 68 cubic feet when the third row's 60/40 sections are folded into the floor. However, the standout feature is the gigantic 116 cubic feet of capacity when the second row is folded, rivaling some minivans. Access to the third row is made easier by a tilt-and-slide function for the second-row seats, although it still requires some agility to reach. The third row tends to feel more claustrophobic compared to the Ford Flex's, but it's a trade-off for the Enclave's superior cargo flexibility.
The 2011 Buick Enclave entices with its compelling exterior design that exudes elegance and robustness. Its sleek body lines coupled with a bold, striking chrome waterfall grille create a unique blend of luxury and power. The Enclave's large, wraparound headlights provide excellent visibility while adding to the vehicle's sophisticated aesthetic. The addition of integrated turn signal indicators in the heated, power-adjustable mirrors further enhances safety and convenience. It features 19-inch aluminum wheels as standard, contributing to its imposing stance, while optional 20-inch chrome-clad wheels add an extra dose of glamour. The Enclave's dual-outlet stainless steel exhaust with bright tips encapsulates the vehicle's balance between style and performance. The total impression of the 2011 Buick Enclave's exterior is one of refined craftsmanship and rugged beauty, making it an alluring choice for those who desire a vehicle that combines practicality with panache.
The heart of the 2011 Buick Enclave lies in its robust 3.6-liter V6 engine, which delivers a commendable 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. This capable engine ensures a smooth and responsive drive, letting you navigate with ease whether you're on city streets or open highways. The standard six-speed automatic transmission is smooth-shifting, further enhancing the ride experience. The Enclave also offers the choice between front-wheel or all-wheel drive, adding to its versatility and ensuring stable and secure handling in different driving conditions. This blend of power and flexibility makes the engine of 2011 Buick Enclave a strong contender in the crossover SUV segment.
The 2011 Buick Enclave's fuel efficiency is commendable, especially for its class. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rates the fuel economy of the front-wheel-drive models at 17 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and a combined estimate of 19 mpg. Versions with all-wheel drive have slightly lower ratings, standing at 16 mpg in the city, 22 mpg highway, and an overall combined rating of 18 mpg. A noteworthy feature is the Enclave's towing capabilities. When equipped with the optional trailering package, the 2011 Buick Enclave can tow up to 4,500 pounds, showing that it balances power and fuel efficiency effectively.
The 2011 Buick Enclave comes equipped with advanced safety features for assured protection on the road. Standard on every model is stability control and airbags strategically positioned at the front-seat side, along with full-length side curtain airbags. The Enclave has undergone stringent testing and has emerged with commendable results. In the government's crash testing for 2011, this model secured a top five-star rating for overall performance. It received four out of five stars for front-impact protection and a full five stars for side-impact protection. The respected Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also tested the Enclave, awarding it the highest score of "Good" in the frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests. However, it's worth noting that in brake testing, the Enclave recorded a stopping distance of 139 feet from 60 mph, a figure somewhat longer than its segment peers, such as the Ford Flex and Mazda CX-9. Nevertheless, the 2011 Buick Enclave maintains a strong focus on safety that is reflected in its standard features and impressive ratings.
The 2011 Buick Enclave garners appreciative nods for its ambitious blend of style and functionality. It certainly isn't a wallflower, boasting a plush interior, an eye-catching exterior, and an engine that purrs with power. Its generous cargo space might make you wonder if it secretly aspires to be a minivan when it grows up! Sure, it's no economy champ at the pump, but it offers better highway fuel economy than any other 8-passenger crossover, so we'll call it even. The Enclave's safety ratings are the cherry on top, although the brakes could use a pep talk.
Would we recommend the 2011 Buick Enclave? Absolutely! It's a great pick for those who want to mix up their daily drive with a little luxury. However, if your idea of a good time is tight steering and rear visibility that doesn't make you feel like you're peering through a mail slot, the Enclave might throw a bit of a wrench in your automotive happiness. Nevertheless, we reckon the Buick Enclave is still worth a spin around the block.
