Just a day before the Los Angeles Auto Show opens to the press, Buick unveiled its new Enclave crossover in Pasadena, California in a ceremony with Buick pitchman Tiger Woods.
Built on the same platform as the GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook, the Enclave will be replacing the Rendezvous and Rainier in Buick's lineup when it goes on sale in the summer of 2007.
Available in two trim levels, the Enclave will be powered by GM's 3.6-liter V6 that puts out 275 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Both trims have available all-wheel-drive. According to Buick, the Enclave is capable of towing as much as 4,500 lbs when equipped with a towing package. CX models come standard with 18-inch wheels, while CXL models ride on 19-inchers. 20-inch wheels are available as an accessory.
All Enclaves come standard with three rows of seats and seating for seven. Although captain's chairs are standard for the second row, a 60/40 split bench is available for those that need seating for eight. In a strange move for a vehicle being touted as luxury, the base CX trim comes standard with cloth upholstery, with leather being optional. CXL models get perforated leather upholstery standard. Cargo room is a solid 18.9 cubic feet with all three rows in place and goes up to 116.2 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.
There is an emphasis placed on safety. In addition to regular front-impact airbags, the Enclave comes with side-impact airbags for the front passengers and roof rail air bags that cover the length of the seating area of the car. These are activated if the vehicle senses a rollover and stay inflated longer than front or side airbags. The front seats are also equipped with seat belt pretensioners.
Notable features include xenon headlights with an articulating headlight system that turns the headlights with the front wheels is offered as an option, Bose 10-speaker stereo, power rear liftgate, ultrasonic rear parking assist system, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, power mirrors with integrated turn signals, and rear-seat DVD entertrainment system.
Pricing has not been announced, but a good bet would be mid-to-high 20s for CX models, with CXL models starting in the low 30s.