2008 Buick Enclave Safety Review

July 14, 2008

SAFETY | 9 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

frontal crash test...suggests a 10 percent or less chance of serious injury
Cars.com

brakes are smooth and powerful
ConsumerGuide

comprehensive list of standard safety equipment
J.D. Power

The 2008 Buick Enclave has a complete roster of standard safety gear, and it scores well in federal crash tests.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) scores the Buick Enclave at five stars for front and side impact protection, while giving the big crossover four stars for rollover resistance.

Cars.com reports that Buick includes anti-lock brakes and an electronic stability system in the Enclave’s package of standard equipment, along with six airbags. Car and Driver reports that in addition to the passive safety feature, GM has also used "high-strength steel for protection" of occupants.

All-wheel drive is offered on the Enclave. According to Kelley Blue Book, the AWD option is "engineered to enhance traction in the more realistic conditions of wet or snowy roads," but is not appropriate for hardcore off-roading.

Conclusion

The 2008 Buick Enclave sits at the top of its class for occupant safety.

SAFETY | 9 out of 10Expert Quotes:frontal crash test...suggests a 10 percent or less chance of serious injuryCars.combrakes are smooth and powerfulConsumerGuidecomprehensive list of standard safety equipmentJ.D. Power The 2008 Buick Enclave has a complete roster of standard safety gear, and it scores well in federal crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) scores the Buick Enclave at five stars for front and side impact protection, while giving the big crossover four stars for rollover resistance. Cars.com reports that Buick includes anti-lock brakes and an electronic stability system in the Enclave’s package of standard equipment, along with six airbags. Car and Driver reports that in addition to the passive safety feature, GM has also used "high-strength steel for protection" of occupants. All-wheel drive is offered on the Enclave. According to Kelley Blue Book, the AWD option is "engineered to enhance traction in the more realistic conditions of wet or snowy roads," but is not appropriate for hardcore off-roading. ConclusionThe 2008 Buick Enclave sits at the top of its class for occupant safety. 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.

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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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