Wednesday, 11 Mar 2026

2025 Buick Enclave Review: New Design, Tech & Pricing Explained

First Drive: Buick’s Bold Reinvention

The 2025 Buick Enclave arrives with its most radical redesign ever, signaling a new era for the brand. After testing the Sport Touring trim, I can confirm this three-row SUV targets buyers prioritizing tech and comfort over sporty handling. Its aggressive new "catfish" front fascia, flat roof, and full-width taillights modernize what was once a conservative choice.

Key upgrades justify attention: Standard 328HP turbocharged 2.5L engine, a massive 30-inch infotainment screen, and available Super Cruise hands-free driving. Yet with prices starting at $46,395, it undercuts luxury rivals while offering premium features.

Exterior: Design Evolution

Buick’s new design language transforms the Enclave with angular wheel arches, gloss-black accents (on Sport Touring), and signature "checkmark" daytime running lights. The 20-inch wheels are standard, while our tester’s $645 Cherry Red Tint Coat paint exemplifies its upscale ambitions.

Notable changes:

  • Higher beltline creates a more imposing presence
  • Simplified body creases reduce visual clutter
  • Full-width LED taillights align with current trends

Interior & Tech: Where the Enclave Shines

Cabin Experience

Leather seating surfaces and white piping on Sport Touring trims elevate the ambiance. The floating console with wireless charging and deep storage bin is exceptionally practical. However, the absence of a standard moonroof (reserved for top trims) was surprising given the price point.

Cargo space remains competitive:

  • 22.9 cu-ft behind 3rd row
  • 97.5 cu-ft with front seats only

Technology Deep Dive

Every Enclave features the 30-inch curved display running Google Built-In plus wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. During testing, the interface responded smoothly, though climate controls buried in menus proved distracting.

Bold tech highlights:

  • Standard 12-speaker Bose audio
  • Available Super Cruise ($3,000+ option)
  • 7-camera views (expandable to 9)

In highway testing, Super Cruise executed confident lane changes and maintained 67mph seamlessly for 15+ minutes. Its $25/month subscription after the 3-year trial remains a concern for long-term value.

Driving Dynamics: Comfort Over Agility

Performance Realities

The 2.5L turbo (328HP/326 lb-ft) pairs with an 8-speed automatic. While adequate for 5,000lb towing, we noted:

  • Excessive engine noise under acceleration
  • Hesitant transmission holding low gears
  • Significant body roll in corners

The Sport Touring’s performance suspension firmed the ride, but 20-inch wheels exacerbated bump harshness. Opting for the Avenir trim’s premium suspension might better suit comfort seekers.

Safety Enhancements

Standard features now include:

  • Traffic sign recognition
  • Intersection automatic emergency braking
  • Blind zone steering assist

Competitive Positioning: Value Analysis

Price Comparison

ModelBase PriceKey Advantage
2025 Buick Enclave$46,395Standard tech features
Mazda CX-90$39,220Better fuel economy
Hyundai Palisade$38,200Lower starting price

Our Sport Touring tester with AWD and Super Cruise reached $54,695. At this price, the Acura MDX becomes a viable alternative.

Strategic Insights

The Enclave excels when:

  1. Prioritizing cabin tech over driving engagement
  2. Needing hands-free highway capability
  3. Seeking luxury aesthetics without badge premium

However, the Mazda CX-90’s 25 MPG combined (vs Enclave AWD’s 21 MPG) and standard AWD merit consideration for efficiency-focused buyers.

Final Verdict & Buyer Tools

Should You Buy the 2025 Enclave?

Yes, if: You value tech innovations like Super Cruise and the 30-inch display, prioritize passenger comfort, and prefer Buick’s assertive new styling.

Consider alternatives if: Sporty handling, fuel efficiency, or lower entry pricing are non-negotiable.

Action Checklist

Before purchasing:

  1. Test drive both suspensions – Sport Touring vs Avenir
  2. Verify Super Cruise mapping in your frequent routes
  3. Compare dealer incentives using real-time pricing tools
  4. Measure third-row access with child seats installed
  5. Negotiate subscription costs upfront

Recommended resources:

  • Consumer Reports’ reliability data for long-term ownership insights
  • Edmunds TCO Calculator for 5-year cost projections

"Which feature matters most in your next family SUV: cutting-edge tech or driving refinement? Share your priorities below!"

For competitive test drives and pricing analysis, explore our video reviews of the Mazda CX-90, Hyundai Palisade, and Acura MDX.