Most passionate drivers are proud to own their cars if they bought exactly what they wanted, but the Buick Enclave has made it even easier to brag throughout the years. Things have changed over time for the Buick Enclave, though, making almost every year different than the last. For example, the top-trim of the current Enclave, the Avenir, screams absolute luxury, but it wasn’t always an option. However, earlier used Buick Enclave models do come in Premium trims, and they can be quite impressive as well. So when considering which of the Enclaves is the best, this, and other differences alike, are important to consider.
As a whole, Enclaves are known for their practicality and affordability. While new models are great, used models can be just as remarkable, but at a lower cost. Debuting in 2008, the Buick Enclave has been going strong for over ten years. Each model comes with its own upgrades and benefits. Even the earliest models come with modernized technology features. Safety is A+ throughout every model year, and cargo space stays sufficient, too. Buick Enclaves are dependable, and drivers swear by their safety, design, and the vast amount of space. So in this article, we are going to take a look at ten years of Buick Enclaves to get a better idea of what each year has to offer on the used market. Let’s dive on in!
2008 Buick Enclave
The 2008 Enclave is quite impressive for its time. This large crossover SUV is stylish and full of cool technology aspects. It comes with a six-speaker CD stereo alongside an auxiliary port, and its heated memory settings seats make it pretty luxurious. Some Enclaves come with an entertainment package that includes a rear DVD entertainment system with surround sound and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. Not to mention all that cargo space that comes along with being a larger SUV. It’s easy to say that the Buick Enclave started out strong. What’s next? Let’s find out.
2009 Buick Enclave
One year makes a difference. Already, the 2009 model comes with Bluetooth and OnStar, satellite radio, and real-time traffic for the navigation system. It also comes with great safety features such as stability control and anti-rollover logic, traction control, and a five-star frontal and side-impact score. Plus, it has a high amount of cargo space, landing at roughly 116 cu.ft. of available room. So far, it looks like the Enclave improves with each year.
2010 Buick Enclave
This one bumps up the technology options with a USB port on top of the auxiliary jack, and it brings back the good ole satellite radio and six-speaker CD audio system that can be upgraded to 10 speakers with the CXL1 model. Overall, the luxury options are pretty much the same as the 2009 model. The main difference is that the 2010 model gets a new trim. This new trim is called the CXL2, and it includes power-folding heated exterior mirrors, and a cooling function for the front seats, among other features. The 2010 CXL2 is a pretty awesome Enclave to own.
2011 Buick Enclave
There were not many changes from the 2010 model to this one. The coolest feature is that OnStar is now standard for six months, so drivers get to test it out and see if it’s worth purchasing. Otherwise, the cargo space is the same; the tech features match the 2010 model, and heated seats are still available depending on the model. The Enclave is consistently safe, and its cargo space is indefinitely impressive.
2012 Buick Enclave
Well, this one is pretty much just a newer 2011 model. Nothing changes except for some features, which aren’t relevant. Basically, if you own a 2011 model, then you own a 2012 model just the same and vice versa. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes, brands don’t need to improve upon much.
2013 Buick Enclave
Now we’re getting into some more upgrades. With everything from technology changes, interior and exterior designs, all the way to performance upgrades, the 2013 Enclave tops any year we’ve seen thus far. Here’s why.
Let’s start with the interior and technology. The 2013 Enclave is made from much better materials. It also includes something called IntelliLink, which connects to online radio stations through Bluetooth. In this model, OnStar comes with automatic crash notification, a stolen vehicle locator with intervention, and a remote door unlock, just to name a few of its features. This model also comes with a cross-traffic back-up warning system. Overall, the 2013 model proves that the Enclave never takes steps back. It’s only going forward from here.
2014 Buick Enclave
If you thought the 2010’s USB port addition was cool, the 2014 model brings an extra pair of charging USB ports as a standard feature. So, no more fighting over whose iPhone gets the charger. Further, the highest trim option comes with forward collision alert and lane departure warning, which are some really modern, high-tech features. And more of these safety technology features will arrive with each model year.
2015 Buick Enclave
Again, just like earlier, those who have a 2014 Enclave have virtually the same vehicle as those who have a 2015 model. Nothing really changes this time. As always, the Enclave comes with more cargo space than most competitors. This is one of the reasons why it’s so loved.
2016 Buick Enclave
Nearing the end of our list, we have the 2016 Enclave. This one gets 4G LTE connectivity, keeping up with the newest cell service technology. It also comes with parking sensors and a rearview camera. It also comes with plenty of standard features that drivers don’t even need to pay extra for, like heated mirrors, rear privacy glass, remote start, and more. The 2016 model is definitely one of the best used Buick Enclaves available.
2017 Buick Enclave
The 2017 model, like a few others, doesn’t bring a whole lot of newness to the table in comparison to the previous year’s model. Just like other models, it has a great amount of cargo space, good safety ratings, and great standard features. Everything about the previous 2016 model applies to this one.
The 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir
Now, we’re going to look at the 2018 model, focusing on its highest trim: the Avenir. This Buick Enclave trim is the top-level performer in Buick Enclave’s arsenal. It comes with 20-inch wheels, a navigation system, a sunroof, a top-down parking system, and even a wireless charging pad for electronic devices such as cellphones. Overall, the Avenir is the best of all the Enclaves, and that’s saying a lot since every Buick Enclave is up to par.
Which Used Buick Enclave Is The Coolest?
There’s really nothing bad about any Buick Enclave model. Each one is cool and unique in its own way. If you love your 2009 Buick Enclave, then you’re definitely sure to love a newer 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir. It’s all about consistency. Buick hasn’t downgraded with any Enclave model. Each year stays the same at the very least, but more often, these models undergo upgrades with each release. We think the Avenir is the coolest option available, but every Enclave has its rightful place on the market.
