2018 Buick Enclave
What’s new
- The Enclave is fully redesigned this year
- Part of the second Enclave generation introduced for 2018
Pros
- Generous room for passengers in all three rows
- Quiet and smooth ride quality
- Plenty of standard features
Cons
- Some advanced safety features only available on the top trim level
2018 Buick Enclave pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which Enclave does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
Originally debuting for the 2008 model year, the first-generation Buick Enclave stood out in the three-row crossover SUV segment for its roomy interior and smooth and quiet ride. The redesigned 2018 Buick Enclave aims to continue in that tradition while raising the bar in the style and technology departments.
Equipped with a more powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine this year (302 horsepower and 260 pound-feet), the Enclave should be notably quicker, especially since this year's model weighs hundreds of pounds less. The 2018 Enclave is slightly longer than last year and offers additional legroom for the second-row and third-row passengers. Maximum cargo space is less than before, but there's still a generous 97.6 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.
We expect the 2018 Enclave will be an appealing choice for a premium three-row crossover SUV, but we won't know for sure until we get a chance to test one ourselves.
Trim levels & features
The 2018 Buick Enclave is available in four trims. They all use the same 3.6-liter V6 engine (302 hp, 260 lb-ft) and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The standard Enclave is available only in front-wheel drive; the remaining trims are available in front- or all-wheel drive. The Essence features additional safety and comfort tech, while the Premium trim adds more luxury and safety amenities. At the top, the Avenir promises tech, safety and comfort features on par with what's offered in the best luxury crossovers. All Enclaves have seating for seven.
Even in base form, the Enclave comes with features that make it competitive in the three-row SUV segment. It comes standard with 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, rear parking sensors, keyless entry and ignition, remote engine start, three-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with heating, adjustable second-row captain's chairs and 60/40-split folding third-row seats. Standard in-car technology includes an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, OnStar communications (with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot), USB ports (two in front and four for rear passengers), and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio.
The Essence includes a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert, a cabin air ionization system and leather seating surfaces. Optionally, you can add all-wheel drive, a heavy-duty tow package that allows you to pull up to 5,000 pounds, a top-down parking camera system and a sunroof.
Premium models add low-speed forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, front parking sensors, driver-seat memory settings, a Bose 10-speaker premium speaker system, lane departure warning and intervention, a heated steering wheel, heated seats for outboard second-row passengers, ventilated seats for the front row, and power-folding third-row seats.
Top-trim Avenir models roll on 20-inch wheels and receive a navigation system (optional on the Essence and Premium), a larger driver information display, a rearview mirror with integrated camera display, the sunroof and top-down parking camera system, premium leather upholstery, upgraded interior trim, and a wireless device charging pad. Optionally, you can spec your Avenir with an adaptive suspension and an Avenir Technology package that allows for stop-and-go adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, grille shutters to increase aerodynamic efficiency, and the aforementioned adaptive suspension package.
Trim tested
Driving
Comfort
Interior
Utility
Technology
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2018 Buick Enclave.
Most helpful consumer reviews
2018 Buick Enclave video
This is the 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir now there two things you want to know about this one it's a completely redesigned version of the Buick Enclave which is a big deal because it's been on the road since 2007 without a major redesign so this is a big deal for the brand and the model itself has a lot more competition now it's a little bit bigger inside has a lot more technology so this should help it out when it's competing against the Honda Pilot Toyota Highlanders of the segment the avenir brand is also new and this is basically a higher trim level so you get different wheels of different grilles some things on the outside but most noticeable are the materials and colors you can get on the inside which I think give it a much richer look and feel and in this segment that's something that differentiates it from some of its competitors look for this to go on sale in the fall of 2017 the 2018 buick enclave does a great job of actually looking small on the outside while offering more interior space along with new technology to see all our latest videos subscribe
2018 Buick Enclave Avenir First Look Review
The newly redesigned 2018 Buick Enclave offers more space inside with better fuel efficiency and new technology. Avenir, a new sub-brand, adds an extra layer of luxury onto the standard model. Edmunds senior editor Ed Hellwig gives the details about this roomy midsize crossover.
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Enclave safety features:
- Following Distance Indicator
- Uses the radar cruise control system to let the driver know if the Enclave is following the car ahead too closely.
- Lane Change and Blind Zone Alert
- Alerts drivers of fast-approaching cars in adjacent lanes. Also warns drivers if there's a vehicle in blind spot.
- Safety Alert Seat
- Warns the driver of a lane departure or imminent collision by vibrating the seat in the direction of the threat.
Buick Enclave vs. the competition
2018 Buick Enclave
2018 Acura MDX
Buick Enclave vs. Acura MDX
Both the Enclave and the MDX come with plenty of features and provide a smooth and comfortable ride, which is expected in this class. The MDX benefits from advanced safety features and driver aids throughout the lineup, whereas only the fanciest Enclave models have comparable offerings. The MDX also scores points with its smarter all-wheel-drive system and powerful V6 engine, although the interior isn't particularly refined for a luxury-brand vehicle.
Buick Enclave vs. Infiniti QX60
The Infiniti QX60 is high on luxury with its plush ride quality and well-mannered transmission. It's easy to access the third-row seats, but legroom is lacking back there. We also deduct points for Infiniti's package-driven options structure, which may force you to pay for some features you don't want. Then there's the QX60's lack of off-road capabilities and its lazy handling behavior. The Enclave is a better drive.
Buick Enclave vs. Volkswagen Atlas
The new Volkswagen Atlas provides a ton of space for passengers in all three rows and delivers a comfortable ride along with precise handling. We also like the big VW's strong value proposition and the easy-to-use character of its controls. On the other hand, the Atlas would benefit from more power across the board, whether you're looking at the base turbocharged four-cylinder engine or the optional V6. Fuel economy isn't impressive either.
2018 Buick Enclave for Sale
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See your car's valueThe 2018 Buick Enclave is a seven-seat crossover that's available in four trims and in either front- or all-wheel drive. The 2018 model aims to liven up the Enclave's image, using technology and design to differentiate it from the previous generation.
Buick is hoping to set its SUV apart from the competition by offering more features and capability at a given price point. The base Enclave model will come with smartphone integration and a flexible seating system, thanks to 60/40-split third-row seating and adjustable and foldable second-row captain's chairs. All seating positions are wrapped in cloth to start, and the driver and front seat passenger benefit from power-adjustable and heated seats. All Enclaves have a V6 engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission, as well as active noise canceling in the cabin, three-zone automatic climate control and LED exterior lights.
The Essence model adds more safety and luxury appointments. Seating surfaces are now leather, blind-spot monitoring and lane change assist are added to the safety equipment, and air ionization filtration is standard.
Premium models benefit from additional safety and luxury items. Low-speed forward automatic braking and following distance indicator, which shows you how far you are from the car in front, as well as driver-position memory settings are standard. The infotainment system remains the same, but HD radio is added and the standard speakers are swapped out for a Bose 10-speaker system.
Buick's top-trim model, the Avenir, adds wood trim, an 8-inch driver information screen in the dash, 20-inch wheels and navigation. It also swaps out the standard rearview mirror for a camera display system. Optionally, the Avenir Tech package adds stop-and-go adaptive cruise control and a dynamically adjustable suspension for an even smoother ride.
We're very much looking forward to getting into the new 2018 Buick Enclave. It promises more tech and safety features, all wrapped in Buick's stately but conservative styling. Its interior design is clean, and interior space should rank high in the class. No matter which trim level interests you, let Edmunds help you decide the right Buick Enclave for you.
2018 Buick Enclave Overview
The 2018 Buick Enclave is offered in the following submodels: Enclave SUV. Available styles include Essence 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A), Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A), Essence 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A), Premium 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A), Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A), Avenir 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A), and 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A).
What do people think of the 2018 Buick Enclave?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Buick Enclave and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 Enclave 4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 Enclave.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Buick Enclave and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Enclave featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2018 Buick Enclave?
2018 Buick Enclave Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A)
The 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $57,145. The average price paid for a new 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) is trending $4,801 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,801 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$52,344.
The average savings for the 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) is8.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 15 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A)
The 2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $53,495. The average price paid for a new 2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) is trending $6,834 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,834 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$46,661.
The average savings for the 2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) is12.8% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 32 2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 Buick Enclave Essence 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A)
The 2018 Buick Enclave Essence 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $47,645. The average price paid for a new 2018 Buick Enclave Essence 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) is trending $8,621 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $8,621 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$39,024.
The average savings for the 2018 Buick Enclave Essence 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) is18.1% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 18 2018 Buick Enclave Essence 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 Buick Enclave Essence 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A)
The 2018 Buick Enclave Essence 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $45,645. The average price paid for a new 2018 Buick Enclave Essence 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A) is trending $8,789 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $8,789 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$36,856.
The average savings for the 2018 Buick Enclave Essence 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A) is19.3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 10 2018 Buick Enclave Essence 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A)
The 2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $51,590. The average price paid for a new 2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A) is trending $8,455 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $8,455 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$43,135.
The average savings for the 2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A) is16.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 8 2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 9A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2018 Buick Enclaves are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Buick Enclave for sale near. There are currently 159 new 2018 Enclaves listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $45,295 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 Buick Enclave. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $9,106 on a used or CPO 2018 Enclave available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2018 Buick Enclaves you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2018 Buick Enclave?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
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2018 Buick Enclave Information
- 2018 Buick Enclave Build and Price TMV®
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- 2018 Buick Enclave Consumer Discussions
- 2018 Buick Enclave Consumer Reviews
- 2018 Buick Enclave Features & Specs
- 2018 Buick Enclave Pictures
- 2018 Buick Enclave Review
- 2018 Buick Enclave Dealer Price Quotes
- Used 2018 Buick Enclave For Sale Near Me
- 2018 Buick Enclave Ownership Costs