2018 Buick Enclave

Pros: Quiet cabin offers more room than most class competitors; smooth ride quality with good driving dynamics for such a large vehicle

Cons: Interior materials not as luxurious as the best in the premium midsize SUV class; some testers dislike unconventional operation of gearshift lever; tilt-and-slide second-row seat is offered only on passenger side of vehicle; optioned-up top-line models are pricey

CG Says: Buick’s seven-passenger midsize SUV is redesigned for 2018, gaining new styling, improved interior space, and a host of new comfort and technology features. Base 1SV, Essence, Premium, and top-line Avenir trim levels are available; all have a 302-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 that is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The base model is front-wheel drive only; the others offer a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Maximum towing capacity is 5000 pounds.

Standard equipment includes a rearview camera, rear park assist, keyless entry and starting, six USB ports, hands-free power liftgate, universal home remote, OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and tri-zone automatic climate control. A frameless touchscreen infotainment system comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, GM’s Teen Driver monitoring system, and a Rear Seat Reminder feature that reminds the driver to check the back seats when exiting the vehicle. Forward collision alert, rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, safety alert seat, following distance indicator, and front park assist are among the available safety features. Available comfort and convenience features include a 10-speaker Bose Premium sound system, power-folding third-row seat, and a second-row SmartSlide seat that tilts and slides forward (even with an empty child seat installed) for easier access to the third row. Like its less-luxurious cousin, the Chevrolet Traverse, the Buick Enclave is one of the largest midsize three-row SUVs around, and it offers outstanding passenger and cargo room as a result. Even in top-line Avenir trim, the Enclave isn’t as luxurious inside or as polished to drive as the top European and Japanese rivals, but it’s more spacious than most everything else in its class.