2018 Buick Enclave Review
Price Range: $14,991 - $25,998
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by Calvin Kim
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
What's new
- The Enclave is fully redesigned this year
- Part of the second Enclave generation introduced for 2018
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.
For sale near Irvine, CA
19 listings
- $14,991good price$1,948 below market
- 119,761 miles
- 7 Seats, 17 City / 25 Hwy MPG
- 239 mi away
- Home delivery*
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Clovis, CA
Rare Find,3rd Row Seat,Apple CarPlay,Back-Up Camera,Blind Spot Monitor,Hands-Free Liftgate,Heated Seats,Heated Seats,Heated Seats,Heated Steering Whee...
- Features and Specs:
- 20 Combined MPG (17 City/25 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 5GAEVCKW3JJ247875
- Stock:
- JJ247875PX
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- $17,726good price$1,029 below market
- 69,057 miles
- 7 Seats, 17 City / 25 Hwy MPG
- 1,959 mi away
- Home delivery*
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Troy, MI
Rare Find,3rd Row Seat,Apple CarPlay,Back-Up Camera,Blind Spot Monitor,Bluetooth,Hands-Free Liftgate,Heated Seats,Keyless Start,Remote Start,Satellite...
- Features and Specs:
- 20 Combined MPG (17 City/25 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 5GAEVAKW6JJ160542
- Stock:
- JJ160542PS
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
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.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
Buick has fully reesigned its 2018 Enclave. With a powerful V6 engine, more rear passenger space and new technology features, the Enclave should be an appealing choice for a three-row crossover SUV, but we won't know for sure until we get a chance to test one ourselves.
Trim tested
Edmunds has not yet driven any version of this vehicle. The following is our first take on what's significant about it and what you can expect.
Driving
The extra horsepower and reduced weight, along with new transmission, should improve upon the previous generation's somewhat ponderous performance.
Comfort
Active noise canceling reduces extraneous wind, road and powertrain noise. Automatic three-zone climate control is standard, and all trims, aside from the base, benefit from an air ionizer. The available adaptive suspension should further help smooth out the ride.
Interior
Buick's seven-seat configuration should provide ample room for second-row and third-row passengers. Getting in and out is further helped this year by a tilt-up second-row seat that can provide quick access to the third row, even with a child safety seat installed.
Utility
With all rear seats folded down, you have a very large load floor. Standard roof rails can handle optional crossbars to load bulky and large items on the roof. Maximum cargo space is less than last year, but it's still healthy at 97.6 cubic feet.
Technology
Smartphone integration is standard, and advanced driver assist functions are only available in higher trim vehicles. The Essence and Premium can be optioned with a Bose speaker system, and the Avenir can be equipped with stop-and-go adaptive cruise control.
Which Enclave does Edmunds recommend?
To take advantage of the luxury positioning of this new Enclave, we recommend the Enclave Premium . It includes low-speed forward collision mitigation, driver seat and mirror position memory, and an upgraded Bose audio system. Front-wheel drive is standard, but get the optional all-wheel drive if you live in snow country.
2018 Buick Enclave models
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.

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Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
The 2018 Buick Enclave is frequently praised for its comfortable and quiet ride, a hallmark that many owners have come to expect and enjoy. This crossover is particularly favored for its spacious interior, making long road trips more pleasant for both drivers and passengers. Its smooth performance on highways and even through rough terrains like dirt roads further enhances its appeal to those who value a relaxed driving experience. Owners also appreciate the user-friendly infotainment system, which integrates well with smartphones, providing reliable navigation and entertainment options. The interior design, while not perfect, is still recognized for offering ample storage and practical features like the wireless charging pad and premium sound system. Safety features such as lane change and blind zone alerts are also commonly highlighted, adding to the feeling of security while on the road. The Enclave's adaptive cruise control, which can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and resume movement, is another favorite for its ease of use. Fuel efficiency has been noted as impressive for a vehicle of its size, with several owners mentioning mileage figures reaching into the upper twenties on highways. The ability to switch between all-wheel and front-wheel drive allows for better fuel management, a feature that resonates with owners who value efficiency without compromising on power. Lastly, the overall build quality, which includes robust braking performance and a responsive engine, rounds out a package that many find to be a high-value proposition in the luxury crossover segment.
Common Issues
The 2018 Buick Enclave has been critiqued for several recurring issues that impact the overall driving experience. A significant number of owners report problems with the transmission, noting instances of it slipping or locking up, which can lead to frustrating and potentially hazardous situations. The auto start-stop system is another commonly mentioned grievance, as it can cause the vehicle to surge unexpectedly during stops, which owners find disconcerting. Seat comfort, particularly in the front, is a frequent point of contention; many drivers find the narrower design and protruding bolsters uncomfortable, especially on longer journeys. The absence of rain-sensing wipers and adaptive cruise control on some trims is a functional shortcoming that disappoints those accustomed to such conveniences in other vehicles. There are also complaints about the quality of certain interior features, like the flimsy sunroof shade, which is prone to rattling and detracts from the otherwise quiet cabin. Further nuisances include the infotainment system's lack of intuitiveness and insufficient resolution on the backup camera, which can be a safety concern. Several owners also express dissatisfaction with the omission of a CD player, a feature some still prefer despite the trend towards digital media. The vehicle's electronics have been problematic as well, with sporadic errors occurring in critical systems like the transmission and navigation. Finally, issues with paint durability and minor interior storage inadequacies, such as the size and placement of cubbies and cupholders, add to owners' frustrations and impact daily usability.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2018 Buick Enclave provides a mixed day-to-day experience for many drivers. On the one hand, its spacious interior and quiet ride remain standout features that enhance daily commutes and long road trips alike. Owners often highlight the ease of driving, particularly appreciating the smooth V6 engine and the generous cargo space which adds practicality for family outings and errands. However, the vehicle's reliability can be a double-edged sword. While some drivers enjoy relatively trouble-free drives for miles, others face recurring transmission issues that detract from their confidence in the Enclave's dependability. Seat comfort, too, divides opinion; while some find the accommodations satisfactory for daily driving, others struggle with discomfort during longer distances. The convenience features are well-received overall, but the lack of standard equipment such as rain-sensing wipers and other advanced tech leaves some wanting more from their investment. Tech-lovers enjoy the modern infotainment system but wish for more intuitive controls and higher camera resolutions. The exterior styling and upscale interior touches do generate compliments, though the sunroof's rattling is a minor annoyance. Fuel efficiency continues to be a bright spot, praised for reaching impressive mpg figures on highway drives. As these varied everyday experiences suggest, the 2018 Buick Enclave.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in California
$332/mo for Enclave Base
Enclave Base
vs
$399/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Reliability
The 2018 Buick Enclave has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, ranks it #25 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Reliability Rating by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#25 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$574/yr
vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Frequency
1.24x/yr
vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Severity
17.4%
vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
There are no recalls for the 2018 Buick EnclaveWarranty
4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 6 years / 70,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 6 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 6 years / 70,000 miles
- Free maintenance Warranty
- 2 years / 24,000 miles
Buick Enclave Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(44%)
4(21%)
3(18%)
2(11%)
1(6%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Road Warrior, Great in Snow
5 out of 5 starsBob Quick, 09/15/2018
2018 Buick Enclave Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A)
We bought the 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir in February 2018, by September we had 17,000 miles. So have had some time to get to know the car. It is very quiet, capable and comfortable. It is outstanding on the road, handles well in all ice, snow, rain, black ice conditions, as well as on dry road. Evens out the bumps, very comfortable on road trips, ride and noise cancelling are … exceptional. It is the least fatiguing car I have ever had, I arrive after 5 to 10 hours of driving relaxed. Averaging almost 27 MPG, have had several tanks that were over 30 MPG. The FWD works great and is more than adequate for most snow conditions. The AWD also works well and is good for snows up to 10-12 inches, over that it gets high centered. It is sure-footed and handling is very measured on icy and wet curves. I should add that my wife likes it much better than her BMW X5. Ride is vastly superior, oh and it burns regular! In short, a very happy owner. Oh be sure to buy the deep rubber all weather mats, they are great.
March 2020 update, we now have 2 years diving experince with the car and have logged 51,000 miles. It is without any doubt the best car we have ever owned. Other than routined maintence it has been trouble free, with one exception. In May 2019, after pulling away from a parking lot, the car started to buck and surge llike a bronco. My wife and I were terrified, turned the car off and had it towed to the dealer. They said ithere was programming fix which GM hoped would fix the problem and it largly did. About 5 months later, there was some hesittaion in upshifting on hills at low speeds, once again. They reprogrammed the transmission control module with the lastest software update and there have been no issues since then.
Overall, the vehicle is excellent, nimble and controlled when pushing it in tight curves, great highway cruiser. Great predictable handling in the ice and snow conditions of northern Wisconsin. One sugestion for GM, wtith the 20 inch tires, sometimes the snow will build up in the wheelwells. If they could add a heating element to the friont wheelwells, this would eliminate the bounching problem and the need to chop out the accumulated ice and snow. A heating element for the front windshield wipers would be useful as well. These are constructive comments, I love the vehicle and would buy another!
It’s been 5 years
5 out of 5 starstoyota420yrs, 08/01/2018
2018 Buick Enclave Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A)
Still happy and enjoying the car but still cautiously optimistic that everything holds together for the next five years.
In the shop!
1 out of 5 starsDisgusted, 10/29/2018
2018 Buick Enclave Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A)
Bought the 2018 Enclave last month. 2 days after purchase, vehicle would not engage out of low. Called and dealership immediately sent a tow truck to pick up the vehicle. Did not find out the cause, even though 8 error messages were recorded. Was told the vehicle was reprogrammed and had no problems when they drove it. 232 miles worth. Went 2 weeks without an issue. 3 days ago I could … not back the vehicle out of the garage. After repeating putting the vehicle in reverse, then park 5 times, I decided to put the vehicle in D with my foot on the brake then transition to R. This procedure worked. I backed out of the garage and drove straight to the dealership. That was Thursday morning. This is Sunday. No solution yet. Both issues have to do with the transmission. I will NEVER buy a GM vehicle again.
Update-Received a call from the dealership today. (Monday). GM engineers gave them instructions on what to look for. Dealership could not fix the problem. Engine light still displayed. Sent those results back to GM. Have to wait on GM for next step. Talk of putting me in a new vehicle because if they can’t fix the problem, the “Lemon Law” will take effect. Will update with final result.
Enclave great size, power, poor engine lifespan
4 out of 5 starsKevin, 11/04/2017
2018 Buick Enclave Avenir 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A)
Just sold after 7 years. Read bottom of review.
The 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir just arrived in AZ the last week of October. I had been looking for a car for a year to replace my 2012 Lexus RX 350. I was about ready to give up on finding a car with a good ride, that is quiet, has room for adults on long drives, and is still able to fit in a parking space. Oh yeah, and it had to have a … decent engine. These are the attributes of the Lexus brand, but I find the new Lexus just mean-looking. I test drove all SUVs: Honda, Toyota, Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q5 Q7 SQ5, Chevy Traverse, Jaguar, Acura, GMC. I like to think I pretty much covered the universe and I liked the Buick best. It is extremely quiet and yet has the guts to handle a high speed pass 70 to 90 smoothly. The long wheel base and great suspension give it a very smooth ride. This was not the most fun car I drove, but it was the most practical. We don't need the 3rd row often, but I like the immense storage with easy parking. BTW, the most fun car was not the Porsche, but the Audi SQ5. I would highly recommend it for a sporty 2 row. Buick has upped its game and matched the prestige badges with a 4 year, 50,000 mile warranty. The Avenir trim is worth the money over the premium. Looks better and seems quieter. If any of my checklist matches yours, go drive the Buick. Update after 1 year of ownership: The weird shift pattern for the electronic shifter is just plain dumb. There was no reason to change. Way too easy to shift into Park while moving. Transmission can get lost on rare occasions while shifting. LOVE the car overall. I would buy it again.
Update after four years: Software update has helped the transmission, but of course not the shift pattern. Some work done under warranty, water pump failed early, but overall not many trips to the shop. Personally, I am ready for something new, but this seems like I will get another 4 years and 50,000 miles out of it without much problem. The car, even in this crazy used car market, has depreciated 50% in 4 years. That is disappointing. Interior space, drivability, quiet, smooth are all still true. Would I buy again? Probably. However with the steep depreciation, I think a 2 or 3 year old car is a much better value.
Update after 7 years. I have sold the car because my repair shop told me that it looked like repairs were coming, after only 60,000 miles. Very disappointing that the car could not make it past 60k miles without a significant investment. Paid $60,000, sold for $20k which was KBB Blue Book value. I still like the size and power, but build quality under the hood was not great. I am not purchasing again. I will purchase a Lexus/Toyota product, known for their reliability.
2018 Buick Enclave video
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.
2018 Enclave Features & Specs
Base
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $39,995 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 21 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $332/month |
| Seating | 7 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 23.6 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Enclave models:
- 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.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover16.9%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedAcceptable
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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