As a vehicle manufacturer, Buick tends to ride the line between “family vehicle” and “luxury vehicle.” After all, crossover SUVs like the Enclave feature plenty of room and grand features without climbing too far into the astronomical price ranges. Many car enthusiasts agree that Buicks provide an excellent value for drivers for years to come. Buicks also have a high reputation for reliability, with many decades-old models still on the road today. But are there any models that rise above others, in terms of what is the best used Buick to buy? Stopping at a used Buick dealership is one way to get a feel for each year and model, but there are a few options that frequently appear on auto enthusiast recommendation lists.
These particular Buicks hit the sweet spot between budget and luxury, with used models costing thousands less than brand new options yet still retaining the classic good looks and features the brand is known for. While used vehicles often vary in price due to independent features such as trim, mileage, quality maintenance, and overall use, these three models from Buick demonstrate a high level of value for your dollar.
The Buick Verano
The Buick Verano was only produced between 2012 and 2017, but has gained a bit of a following amongst drivers looking for spectacular value and luxury features. Buick’s vehicles are known for their extremely quiet, soft, and comfortable ride, and the Verano is no exception. Styled as a compact sedan, the Verano has been referred to as “entry-level luxury” and a “step-up” from the daily commuter car.
Standard features updated and upgraded between model years but included an impressive suite of basics, such as cruise control, remote start, keyless entry, a six-speaker audio system with CD and USB connections, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Bluetooth connectivity. Climbing up the trims can add heated, power adjustable features such as steering wheel, mirrors, and seats, audio system upgrade, spoilers, and driver assistance features, such as blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert.
The Verano engine varied little throughout the first generation, with a 2.4L 4-cylinder under the hood. Providing 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, this engine knows how to get the job done. For those looking for extra pep, the Verano Turbo model provides a turbocharged version of this engine that takes it up to 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
The Buick Verano may have appeared only briefly on new model showroom floors, but its value amongst used Buick drivers is exceptional. A smooth, quiet drive makes it a top choice for those wanting to block out the hustle and bustle of a lengthy daily commute so they can enjoy the journey.
The Buick Enclave
The Buick Enclave is still in production; therefore, the term “used” can span from a Certified Pre-Owned model with very few miles on it to a well-loved model from its 2008 inaugural year. The 2013 Enclave is one model year where the price and value meet. This year received a major refresh, including interior and exterior restyling and new equipment and technology features across the lineup.
The Enclave is a people mover, with seating for up to 8. The second row can be configured with either a bench seat that slides easily out of the way or with captain’s chairs. It can also tow up to 4,500 pounds, making it a truly versatile family-friendly vehicle.
The 2013 Buick Enclave is powered by a 3.6L V6 engine that provides an energetic 288 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. More recent models share the same engine specs, only with a power boost, resulting in 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque.
Three trims were offered in 2013, though much in the style of the Buick Verano, different packages provided additional and upgraded features. These features ranged from leather seating to heated and ventilated seats, a power liftgate, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and adaptive headlamps. With the 2018 redesign, Buick updated the trims and gave them name changes, so you can find the base, Preferred, Essence, Premium, and Avenir.
The Buick Enclave has evolved significantly over the years but remains a top pick for comfort and class in the 7 to 8 passenger SUV market. With loads of room and an impressive list of options, the Enclave has enjoyed several makeovers since 2007 without sacrificing its purpose and capability.
The Buick Regal TourX
The Buick Regal TourX saw a shorter time in the showrooms than the Verano, offered in 2018, 2019, and 2020 only. The TourX is an all-wheel drive hatchback wagon, though whether it is considered a crossover SUV or a hatchback sedan is still a matter of debate. With the ability to transport five passengers and 32.7 cubic feet of cargo simultaneously––which increases to 73.5 cubic feet with the rear seat folded––the TourX combines high function with high style.
The TourX engine is a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 that makes driving a wagon-type vehicle more fun than expected. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and offered standard with all-wheel drive, this engine provides a nimble 250 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
The Regal TourX’s three trims––Base, Preferred, and Essence––are each brimming with features that make even the longest road trips more enjoyable. For example, push-button start and keyless entry are standard across the lineup, along with Bluetooth and premium audio systems, with active noise cancellation. The TourX also features an active hood system, which senses an impending pedestrian collision, and raises the hood to shield the engine from the impact.
As the trims climb, the features become more and more luxe. From power adjustable and heated front seats and steering wheel, to remote start, a leather trims, and wireless charging, drivers can take advantage of all sorts of comfortable details. Safety and driver assistance features include rear park assist, LED cornering headlights, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring with lane change alert.
The Buick Regal TourX may not have received the attention it deserved while it was new to the market, but its appearance on used Buick lots is fortuitous for any driver looking for an all-wheel drive wagon type vehicle with an elite level of comfort and quietness.
Find Your Used Buick Today
When visiting a used Buick dealership, there are plenty of choices to be made. While the sheer number of exceptional cars and SUVs may be overwhelming at first, take the time to determine which is the best used Buick for you to buy. That might mean eliminating sedans if an eight-passenger Enclave is a good fit or choosing a model such as the TourX that has more cargo room without sacrificing a car-like drive. If a luxury ride on a budget is within your scope for a next family vehicle, consider checking out the used models at your local Buick dealership. You’ll find that quality, value, and savings do belong together when describing a traditionally luxury-branded vehicle.
