Looking at the 2011 Buick Enclave
Reports on the 2011 Buick Enclave evaluations show that not much has changed. This premium-midsized SUV maintains it design resembling a cross between the designs of the GMC Acadia and the Chevrolet Traverse.
The Enclave can come in three different trim levels. Top of the lineup is the CXL-2 trim level, followed by the CXL-1 and finally the CX. The powertrain for all three trim levels are the same – a team-up of a 288 hp 3.6 liter V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Its max towing capacity is up to 4,000 lbs.
All models can be available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive systems. The models can seat up to a total of 7 passengers. Its seats include 2nd row bucket seats as well as a 3rd row bench. There is also a 3-person bench on the 2nd row to accommodate one more person, making a total of 8 persons.
Flip-forward bottom cushions as well as sliding backrests are a standard feature in General Motor’s Smart Slide 2nd row seats. These were designed to allow passengers a more convenient access to the 3rd row.
This lineup also has a standard set of safety features. They have the antilock brake system or ABS, the antiskid system, traction control, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. All these features are designed to make riding the vehicle much safer for the driver and the rest of the passengers.
ABS stands for antilock brake system. As a safety feature, it is specifically designed to keep wheels from locking up and stop revolving when you hit on brake. The system is capable of detecting whether the wheel in question will be locked, and can release the pressure on that wheel should it happen. By keeping the wheel from locking up, you continue to have control over a wheel that can still revolve.
In line with the ABS is the antiskid system. It helps the vehicle from staying on-course when it skids by applying independent brakes on wheels through the ABS. Skidding can happen when the vehicle loses grip.
Good grip, on the other hand, is achieved with good traction; this is where traction control will come in handy. The system provides the vehicle a good grip when the vehicle is made to turn, brake, or accelerate.
Other standard features include the bi-xenon headlamps, a DVD entertainment system, real-time traffic updates, heated and cooled front seats, and a rearview camera. Most of these standard features mentioned above are intended to give the driver and his or her passengers a richer driving experience with any of the Buick Enclave models.
With a total score of 79 on expert ratings, it seems that the 2wd CXL-2 model has a relative edge over most premium midsize sport-utility vehicles that usually score a total of 71.7.
