2008 Buick Enclave Features Review

July 14, 2008

FEATURES | 8 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

Odd choices for standard equipment
Edmunds

I just expect all this to cost more
Mother Proof

Equipped below the $27,990 [Saturn] Outlook
Truck Trend

The 2008 Buick Enclave has a long list of standard features and luxurious options.

The price of a base-model Buick Enclave FWD CX, according to The Auto Channel, is $34,255, but their reviewers say the cost of all the extra features that increase the price anywhere from $7,000 to $8,000 are "well worth it."

Cars.com reports that keyless entry, CD stereo with XM Satellite Radio (free for the first three months, according to The Auto Channel), and a power liftgate are all standard on the base model. In addition, tilt-telescoping steering wheel and a rearview camera are available options, but Edmunds warns that these will increase the price "well past the $40,000 mark."

Mother Proof praises the many optional features available for the Buick Enclave, and expresses surprise that a fully loaded, top-of-the-line version is "only $44,055." These options include a navigation system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, heated seats, a sunroof, and power seats all around (except the third row).

TheCarConnection.com adds that higher-end models offer or can be ordered with all the niceties, from a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound stereo to three-zone climate control, a power rear liftgate, a head-up display (HUD), a two-panel sunroof, and backseat DVD entertainment system. A 19-inch wheel/tire package is available and looks sharp, but be sure you test drive a model so equipped before you buy, as the ride quality suffers a bit.

Conclusion

The 2008 Buick Enclave has a long list of features, including satellite radio and a navigation system, but Bluetooth isn’t offered.

FEATURES | 8 out of 10Expert Quotes:Odd choices for standard equipmentEdmundsI just expect all this to cost moreMother ProofEquipped below the $27,990 [Saturn] OutlookTruck Trend The 2008 Buick Enclave has a long list of standard features and luxurious options. The price of a base-model Buick Enclave FWD CX, according to The Auto Channel, is $34,255, but their reviewers say the cost of all the extra features that increase the price anywhere from $7,000 to $8,000 are "well worth it." Cars.com reports that keyless entry, CD stereo with XM Satellite Radio (free for the first three months, according to The Auto Channel), and a power liftgate are all standard on the base model. In addition, tilt-telescoping steering wheel and a rearview camera are available options, but Edmunds warns that these will increase the price "well past the $40,000 mark." Mother Proof praises the many optional features available for the Buick Enclave, and expresses surprise that a fully loaded, top-of-the-line version is "only $44,055." These options include a navigation system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, heated seats, a sunroof, and power seats all around (except the third row). TheCarConnection.com adds that higher-end models offer or can be ordered with all the niceties, from a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound stereo to three-zone climate control, a power rear liftgate, a head-up display (HUD), a two-panel sunroof, and backseat DVD entertainment system. A 19-inch wheel/tire package is available and looks sharp, but be sure you test drive a model so equipped before you buy, as the ride quality suffers a bit. ConclusionThe 2008 Buick Enclave has a long list of features, including satellite radio and a navigation system, but Bluetooth isn’t offered. 2008 BUICK ENCLAVE STYLING | [9 out of 10] Edmunds: "graceful lines and voluptuous curves" Kelley Blue Book: "a bolder appearance than many crossover SUVs " Mother Proof: "a very fresh, modern exterior...curvy" Truck Trend: "voluptuous skin" The 2008 Buick Enclave is a crossover ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

Buick positions the 2008 Enclave as statement of American luxury. This crossover does battle against some heady competition, and most of them are more sporting and significantly smaller. If room is important, go with the Buick. Only the Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 offer three rows of seats, but their last rows are better suited for children. The Volvo XC90, Audi Q7, and Infiniti RX all offer optional V-8 engines in their crossovers, giving their takes on luxury a bigger power punch.

Next Steps:

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for the 2008 Buick Enclave

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for a 2008 Buick Enclave near you

See the Buick Enclave in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008

Comments (2 total)

  1. By Deb Harberon #1, Posted: 8/22/2008

    2008 Buick Enclave Bottom Line

    Here is what I don't understand. It is an elegantly appointed cross over that can carry 7 - 8 people. I certainly wouldn't load 6 kids in this car and I rarely drive around with 6 other adults, so who is this car for?

  2. By Diane #2, Posted: 9/2/2008

    One Size Doesn't Always Fit All

    The reviews are very helpful. I don't understand Ms. Harberon's reluctance to put children in this vehicle. It is safe and comfortable. Of course if you let your children do whatever they please, then I can see the reluctance. I have never had those issues with mine. As far as the adults are concerned, we regularly go to dinner and on weekend trips with other couples and have found the roominess and comfort to be a great asset. With gas prices so high, why would you not own a vehicle that could be used to share rides? It's also better for the environment to share rides. We have taken two other couples with us on at least eight different occasions and everyone commented on the comfortable ride. One other couple actually bought one after riding in ours. I guess if you are very concerned about the expense and the kids making a mess, a base model minivan or sedan is what you need. I wouldn't give my Enclave up for anything!

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