Buick Enclave

The large, three-row Buick Enclave is being treated to its first redesign in about a decade. The 2018 model arrives this fall, promising improved fuel economy, increased interior space, and a technology smorgasbord. Power comes from a 3.6-liter V6--up 22 hp to 310--teamed with a nine-speed automatic. Combined with a start/stop system, fuel efficiency should be better than the 15 mpg we recorded with the outgoing model. Towing capacity is a claimed 5,000 pounds. Buick says significant attention has been paid to interior noise, with the top-trim Avenir having an even quieter cabin. The third-row seat can actually accommodate adults. Automatic emergency braking and forward-collision warning are available, though not on all of the trim levels. Full-speed AEB is available only on the Avenir.

After almost a decade on the market, the large Enclave is set to be replaced by an all-new, more modern version that will go on sale in the fall. The outgoing model has a firm, comfortable ride and secure handling. The cabin is quiet, the interior is nicely finished, and the seats are comfortable. But the Enclave shows its age through some of the outdated controls and limited feature content. The 3.6-liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission are smooth and unobtrusive, but the engine feels taxed and at times the powertrain has to work hard to move this large SUV. In our tests the Enclave returned a paltry 15 mpg overall. Adults can fit in the roomy third row, a plus. Forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning systems are available.

The Buick Enclave is a large, car-based SUV with three rows of seats. It shares a platform with the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook. All use GM's contemporary 3.6-liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that is a bit hesitant to downshift. We found the ride comfortable and quiet, and the powertrain smooth. Handling is secure and pretty agile for such a big vehicle. The third-row seat is roomy enough for adults. Fit and finish are excellent. Fuel economy was slightly worse in the heavier Enclave than in our tested Traverse. A revised version with an improved infotainment system and the industry's first center airbag between the front seats debuted for 2013.