2008 Buick Enclave

The 2008 Buick Enclave ranks 2 out of 25 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 37 published reviews and test drives of the Buick Enclave, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Enclave has a smooth, quiet ride and a stylish exterior, but there is a noticeable absence of an optional V8 engine. Still, it ranks very highly within its large class.

Auto reviewers find the all-new 2008 Buick Enclave to be a sleek-looking, smooth-riding SUV with a quiet, accommodating cabin. Road and Track says it "prizes sculptural body shapes over truck-inspired toughness" -- a design to which "it adds a silky-smooth drive train and, to top it off, class-leading cabin quiet." The Enclave shares GM's Lambda platform with the Saturn Outlook and the GMC Acadia, but holds a price premium over both. However, its luxurious interior and sleek styling could have potential owners comparing it to more vaunted competition.

The 2008 Buick Enclave is available in two trims: the base CX and the premium CXL. Both trims are available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) versions.

The Buick Enclave is a full-size crossover SUV launched in May of 2007 as a 2008 model by the Buick division of General Motors. The Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, Chevrolet Traverse, and Saturn Outlook all share the new GM Lambda platform. The Enclave was previewed at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, officially as a concept car, making it the first Lambda vehicle to be displayed. The Enclave is partially based on the Buick Centieme shown at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show.

The Enclave replaced both of Buick's SUVs, the minivan-based Rendezvous, the truck-based Rainier, as well as the Terraza minivan. It features comfortable seating for six, and up to eight with a third row with a foot well, generous interior space, and either front- or all-wheel drive.