The 2018 Buick Enclave hones its appeal with beautiful style, much-improved handling, and no-nonsense technology.
Pros Expressive sheet metal Spare and elegant cockpit Good third-row space Much-improved handling Still rides smoothly
Cons Base seats are cloth All-wheel drive is part-time Fuel economy still just average Best safety features not pervasive Pricey Avenir trim level is more a feature-unlock code
The Avenir name is something new entirely. It's a new sub-brand that Buick is introducing on the Enclave that adds another layer of luxury onto the standard model. It will sit above the Premium model that was previously the most feature-rich trim level offered on the Enclave. Standard features on the Enclave Avenir include a unique mesh grille, 20-inch wheels and exclusive interior colors and materials. The individual features aren't striking on their own, but taken together they do make this Enclave look a step above anything offered on its predecessor. Apart from the Avenir upgrades, the Enclave follows much the same formula as the previous model. It's a spacious three-row crossover with a standard V6 and a new nine-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers 302 horsepower to either the front wheels or all four wheels on all-wheel-drive models. Towing capacity is up to 5,000 pounds and we expect overall mileage to improve slightly.
The fully redesigned 2018 version is hugely important as the brand’s grandest offering.Buick’s latest three-row ute succeeds in being a marked improvement over its predecessor in every meaningful way.
Pros Shapely design, tons of usable space, refined road manners, lots of available features.
Cons Prices climb quickly with options, a tight third row for three, some cheap bits still visible.
The 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport builds on the automaker’s reputation in all the right ways. It’s comfortable, relatively affordable, and still capable.
Pros Capable off-road Well-equipped at every trim level Handsome exterior Comfortable for four adults
Cons No standard heated seats? Somewhat thirsty Pricey uprated engine Gets expensive with just a few options
The 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport ranked #15 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Land Rover Discovery Sport has a score of 7.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Outstanding interior Plenty of standard tech features Quiet, smooth ride
Cons Unimpressive handling Infotainment system unresponsive at times Transmission has poorly timed shifts Below-average fuel economy
The 2018 Discovery Sport gains a few updates. Most notably, the turbocharged four-cylinder engine is now more powerful and efficient and is available with two different output levels. Changes have also been made to front-seat adjustments and comfort. Some changes have been made to trim-level equipment and options.
PROS Above-average off-road and all-weather capabilities Available third-row seating Plenty of passenger and cargo space
CONS Active safety features and driver aids are pricey extras Cabin is well-made but less luxurious than those of rivals Below-average fuel economy