2008 Buick Enclave Preview

By Marty Padgett

Marty Padgett

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Buick says its new Enclave crossover vehicle will capture luxury-seeking buyers looking for sleek style in an eight-passenger package.

The front-wheel-drive Enclave CX starts at $32,790, while the all-wheel-drive model starts at $34,790.

The front-wheel-drive Enclave CXL begins at $34,990, while the all-wheel-drive version starts at $36,990.

Buick calls the Enclave its first luxury crossover SUV. Before it, the brand offered a truck-based Rainier sport-ute, which shared its underpinnings with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, and a Rendezvous crossover that shared underpinnings with the Pontiac Aztek. The new Enclave shares its mechanicals with the upcoming Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia.

When it arrives in showrooms in the summer the Enclave will be offered in two editions, CX and CXL. Both will be powered by GM’s 3.6-liter V-6, a dual overhead-cam engine with variable valve timing, 275 horsepower, and 251 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission will be the only gearbox offered, while buyers will get a choice of front- or all-wheel drive.

The Enclave’s chassis consists of a unibody structure with independent suspension at all four corners. Steering is through a variable-effort, power rack-and-pinion setup, and the standard anti-lock brakes are assisted by stock 18-inch wheels and tires; 19-inchers and 20-inchers are available. With the proper equipment the Enclave can tow 4500 pounds.

Other standard safety features are stability control with rollover mitigation, tire pressure monitors, traction control, and six airbags including three-row curtain airbags.

Ken Gross (right), Petersen Automotive Museum director, with wife Trish and children