The 2017 Buick Enclave is a good-looking SUV for families and one of the better-aging GM cars in recent memory.The Buick Enclave has lived longer than many thought it would. Crossover SUVs are hot properties these days, and aging models typically don't perform as well in the showroom as newer models. But the Enclave has been killing it, remaining one of Buick's best sellers almost a decade down the road. It's our favorite of GM's big front-drive-based utility vehicles, which also includes its siblings, the Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia.
Pros Classy exterior Spacious second row captain's chairs Quality materials Smooth ride
Cons Nosedive in braking Can add up in options Lagging behind in fuel economy
Do you need a big three-row crossover SUV that can shuttle lots of people and cargo? The 2017 Buick Enclave could be for you. Besides its utilitarian abilities, it's also pleasant to drive. But read more to learn why some rival models might serve you better. The 2017 Buick Enclave gets a new Sport Touring edition with a satin black grille and distinctive 20-inch chromed alloy wheels with satin black detailing.
Pros Smooth ride even when the road isn't Seating for up to eight and cargo space to match Peace of mind that comes with top safety scores.
Cons It's a big crossover and drives like one Disappointing acceleration and fuel economy Infotainment and climate controls are behind the times Interior quality could leave some wanting more.
The 2017 Buick Enclave ranks 10 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. In spite of segment-leading cargo space, a handsome interior, and a rich offering of standard equipment, the Buick Enclave sits in the middle of the midsize SUV segment because its V6 can struggle under a full load.
Pros Composed, comfortable ride Spacious seating for up to eight Lots of room for cargo
Cons Fuel economy is below average
The 2017 Nissan Armada ranks 6 out of 6 Large SUVs. Nissan reintroduced the Armada for the 2017 model year, and it has a quiet ride, above-average cabin quality, a powerful engine, and spacious second-row seats. However, the front seats are less roomy than in rival SUVs, and the infotainment system feels a step behind many rival systems.
Pros Powerful engine Quiet ride Quality cabin materials Sprawling second-row seats
Cons Antiquated infotainment system Subpar cargo space Disappointing first- and third-row seats
After rotting on the vine for years, the 2017 Nissan Armada's redesign brings it upscale and makes it competitive with its recently updated truck-based full-size SUV rivals. With the 2017 Armada, Nissan has adopted what is basically a U.S. version of the global Nissan Patrol SUV. The new Armada is a soul mate of the Infiniti QX80 once again, with a body-on-frame design and its eight-passenger seating. To distinguish it from the QX80, it gets new styling and new engineering, plus additional safety features.
Pros More modern looks Quiet cabin Ready power Good choice for towing Room for people and their stuff
Cons Thirsty Big and heavy Slow steering Tight third-row seat
The redesigned 2017 Nissan Armada is a substantial improvement over the vehicle it replaces. If you're looking for a big three-row SUV that can tow and venture off the beaten path but also comfortably handle the daily urban grind, the new Armada will be a great choice. After a one-year hiatus, the Nissan Armada is back for 2017. Fully redesigned, it boasts a higher quality interior, a more powerful V8 engine and a new, more chiseled look for its exterior styling.
Pros Higher-quality cabin that betters most competitors Smooth and quiet V8 engine More comfortable and less trucklike to drive than some rival SUVs Plenty of ground clearance for off-road adventures.
Cons Fuel economy is poor, even for this class of vehicle Third-row seat is less spacious and comfortable than those of some SUV and crossover rivals Heavy steering in parking lots.