Second Generation Buick Enclave

The Buick Enclave is regarded as a Chevrolet Traverse in fake jewelry swag that makes it look posh enough to get through fancy restaurants and for this second-generation model, the new Enclave tries to prove that this poshed-up Traverse has been one-upped to be more luxurious than the competition.

At first, the new Enclave by Buick is made for those who think today's Chevy Traverse has too much republican views when its seated at the grown-up table and while it runs on the same new platform as the Traverse, Buick's flagship crossover behaves differently than the Traverse because it was made to be as comfortable as the German crossovers, although it remains theoretical, of course.

The new design is like the best of both worlds because up front, it resembles like today's Opels even though Opel now belongs to the French. Looks like the General still hasn't forgot its German friends after all. On the back, it looks more like the one from the Made-in-China Envision, and on the side, it resembles of a Toyota crossover I can't mention it to you due to search query reasons, resulting to some kind of culture clash in the design department.

Inside, the new Enclave is now more luxurious than ever and if you gone for the more luxurious Avenir, which is Buick's equivalent of GMC's Denali line, not only you'll stand out with its blinged-up exterior but also the chestnut interior with ebony trim that makes it look interesting. From its seven-seater capacity, internet connectivity, adjustable seats, and numerous concessions of comfort, it's fair to say that the new Enclave is even more luxurious than the old model. In fact, it's almost an Escalade on the budget because you can get one for $39,995, less expensive than other luxury crossovers.

Unlike other luxury crossovers, the new Enclave is not welcomed to the turbo nonsense its European opposition had because it still runs on its 310hp 3.6L V6 engine mated to a brand new 9-speed AT that delivers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg highway, which is very convincing for a V6 crossover even though it comes with a fuel-saving feature that can shut its engine off when stopped at a set of lights and then restarts when it sets off.

Handling wise, the new Emclave's slightly improved thanks to its five-link rear suspension as well as its Intelligent AWD with Active Twin Clutch that makes it very adaptable on any conditions. While it maybe as nice to drive as a family saloon, it can't match the driving pleasure the Europeans had and it's not somewhat you may call exciting. It may not somewhat sporty by SUV standards but in partial terms of comfort, the ride is good and you can make the most out of it everyday at work or at play. And with a wide range of safety features available, it's easier to live with.

For those who think that the new Traverse has some republican views onto it, the new Enclave can be a liberal alternative to it. It may be heavily improved from the previous model but it struggles to keep up with the competition unless they want this crossover to fight fire with fire, but still, while it's not the most enjoyable crossover you can buy right now, it's a bargaining in the making because of its newly refined dynamics and a whole new level of luxury that makes it a class apart from the rest.

Photo: General Motors