2016 Buick Enclave Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

With the ability to seat up to eight people, the 2016 Buick Enclave is an ideal choice for large families. The full-size crossover’s excellent crash protection and high-quality interior should attract plenty of buyers. Everyone can look forward to experiencing a comfortable ride. Even the base model comes loaded with plenty of equipment. When needed, the new Enclave is also capable of towing a load.

What’s new for 2016?

This year, the latest Enclave comes standard with an updated Onstar system. Buick also offers a new Tucsan Edition, which features a special grille and 20-inch wheels.
 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2016 Buick Enclave – The Pros

1) Potent V-6 Engine

The Enclave’s standard V-6 engine has been used in a variety of other GM automobiles. Its strong output makes it a fulfilling choice. A variable valve timing system helps the 3.6-liter engine to develop a stout 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. When carrying around a full load of passengers, the engine never begins to feel exhausted.

2) Smooth Ride

In terms of ride quality, the 2016 Buick Enclave is among the best full-size crossovers in the segment. The Enclave remains plush even when traveling on rough pavement. Vibrations are kept to a minimum. Families will surely appreciate the crossover’s lack of road noise. Although the Enclave does not offer athletic handling, it does inspire a great deal of confidence.

3) Capable AWD System

Most people will find the standard FWD system to perfectly suitable. However, there are others who will need the Intelligent AWD system. The AWD system automatically adjusts to the current road conditions. Unlike a full-time 4WD unit, the Enclave’s Intelligent AWD system remains inactive in good weather. This helps conserve a bit of fuel.

4) Feature-Packed Base Model

Even in its base trim level, the 2016 Buick Enclave offers plenty of luxury. By taking advantage of the rear parking sensors, drivers can prevent fender benders. Dual USB ports enable everyone to keep their electronic devices fully charged. Some of the other goodies include a power lift-gate, a rear-view camera, xenon headlights, and an IntelliLink infotainment system.

5) Standard OnStar System

GM’s legendary OnStar system provides around-the-clock assistance. Whether the driver has a flat tire or needs to book a hotel, the OnStar system can provide a lot of help. The updated system is also designed with a built-in Wi-Fi hot-spot. When attempting to access the Internet, families will have a strong 4G signal.

6) Class-Leading Roominess

The 2016 Buick Enclave flaunts an extremely roomy interior. Not only does the big crossover provide three-row seating, but it also offers plenty of cargo space. The crossover’s class-leading storage space enables the Enclave to store several suitcases. If needed, the rear seats can be folded down to further expand the Enclave’s cargo capacity.

7) High-Quality Bose Sound System

Featuring a total of 10 speakers, the available Bose stereo system offers a very enjoyable music-listening experience. Bose engineered the system to sound like an actual live concert. Whether the driver prefers country music or rap, they can expect to be very impressed with the unit’s sound quality. They can turn up the volume without worrying about any distortion.

8) Rear-Seat Entertainment Unit

As many parents have experienced, some children can become quite impatient on long road trips. Fortunately, the 2016 Buick Enclave is available with a rear-seat entertainment system. The eight-inch LCD screen enables passengers to watch DVDs without interrupting anyone else. A set of wireless headphones are included with the unit.

9) Five-Star Safety Rating

Stamped with a five-star safety rating, the 2016 Buick Enclave offers excellent impact protection. The crossover also received very good scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. While the standard rear-camera improves visibility, Buick also offers other technologies such as blind-spot monitoring and forward-collision alert.

10) Towing Capabilities

Driver will be able to pull up to 4,500 pounds. Although the Enclave cannot match the capabilities of a pickup truck, it will satisfy most people. Featuring a heavy-duty cooling system and a sturdy hitch, the optional towing package will ensure a safe trip.  

Reasons Not to Buy a 2016 Buick Enclave – The Cons

1) Average Infotainment System

The standard IntelliLink infotainment unit gets an average rating. At times, the system may be slow to respond to the driver's input. Dodge’s Uconnect infotainment system has far better user ratings.

2) Large Size

While the Enclave’s large size enhances passenger comfort, it sacrifices some maneuverability. Some drivers will have a difficult time making U-turns. Parking along a busy city street can also be a chore.

3) Radar-Based Cruise Control Is Unavailable

Premium crossovers manufactured by BMW and Mercedes-Benz offer adaptive cruise control. While the 2016 Buick Enclave comes with a traditional cruise control system, it cannot automatically adjust to the flow of traffic.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Some of the main rivals include the Dodge Durango, the Ford Explorer, and the Acura MDX. While the Acura MDX offers a sporty ride, it fails to match the Enclave’s interior room. Unlike the Enclave, a Wi-Fi hot-spot does not come standard on the Ford Explorer. In comparison to European crossovers such as the Mercedes-Benz GL, the Enclave is a lot more affordable.

Conclusion

When it comes to hauling more than five passengers, the new Buick Enclave is among the top options. The big crossover’s roominess and featured-filled cabin make it hard to ignore. From styling standpoint, the Enclave’s refined appearance will attract a lot of people.