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 facelifted 2018 Qashqai gets a fresh look, more kit and new tech. It's a good thing, but is it a standout option in the small SUV segment?
Pros Still looks smart Above-average cabin practicality Improved on-road refinement Good cabin build quality AEB now standard across the range
Cons It's pretty expensive Can feel underpowered Key active safety reserved for top models Ti, adaptive cruise not here until mid-2018 Tyre roar, busy ride on 19-inch wheels Still no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
Pros Spacious interior for size Addition of AEB Good comfort equipment list
Cons Aggressive tyre choice spoils ride Space saver spare tyre No Apple Carplay or Android Auto
