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 2017 Acura MDX ranks 10 out of 21 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Acura MDX is a well-rounded and reasonably priced option for drivers looking for a well-equipped luxury midsize SUV.The 2017 Acura MDX ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Midsize SUVs category.
Pros Balanced ride and handling Excellent fuel economy More standard driver assistance features than rivals
Cons Cumbersome infotainment system Less cargo space than 3-row rivals
The 2017 Acura MDX is one of the best-driving, most technologically advanced three-row luxury crossovers, and a new Sport Hybrid model and active suspension should only add to that reputation. Among luxury crossovers, the Acura MDX is a standout in nearly every possible way—and it stands as quite a counterpoint to the brand’s sedans, which can’t seem to get proper traction in the market.While this model is already one of the best-driving models in its class, the 2017 Acura MDX has been given ride and handling improvements, more standard active-safety features, and a new Sport Hybrid variant that promises both better performance and higher fuel economy numbers.We give it a 7.5 out of 10.
Pros New Sport Hybrid Refined and quiet Great handling Space for six
Cons Rough-shifting transmission Too much bright trim Complex infotainment interface Lacks steering feedback
The 2017 Acura MDX receives a comprehensive face-lift, including a new front end with fresh headlight and grille designs. A Sport Hybrid model debuts with more power and better fuel economy than the regular MDX. New standard features for 2017 include capless fueling, an electronic parking brake, auto high beams, additional USB ports and the AcuraWatch suite of active safety aids (previously optional on some MDX versions). Newly available features include 20-inch wheels, LED foglights, automatic locking when you walk away from the vehicle, power-folding mirrors, a surround-view camera system, a heated steering wheel, upgraded wood trim and second-row captain's chairs.
Pros Generous array of features and active driver aids for the money Optional SH-AWD system enhances handling and all-season surefootedness Smooth and confident acceleration from the V6 engine Quiet, comfortable and spacious cabin
Cons Touchscreen isn't user-friendly and graphics are subpar Cabin looks and feels less luxurious than some rivals Clunky auto stop-start function Adaptive cruise control can be slow to respond and abrupt when it does
HIGHS: Standard active-safety tech, newly refined schnoz, excellent handling.
LOWS No longer the best, expensive option packages, frustrating infotainment system.
Still a compelling alternative to European luxury SUVs.
