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 all-new 2017 Kia Niro is classified as a compact hybrid crossover SUV, though it really functions more like a hatchback. Your view of the road is marginally higher because of the Niro's elevated stance, but Kia doesn't offer the Niro with all-wheel drive, so don't expect to be a snow-busting trailblazer in bad weather. The Niro's core appeal comes from its traditional exterior design (no "hybrid!" shouting here) as well as a new powertrain that is capable of returning up to an EPA-estimated 50 mpg in combined city/highway driving.
Pros: Impressive fuel economy from the base trim model Six-speed transmission shifts like a conventional car's One of the more affordable hybrids in the segment Batteries are hidden under the rear seat and don't affect cargo space
Cons: All-wheel drive isn't offered despite the crossover styling Smaller cargo space compared to some rival models The Niro's Touring trim sacrifices some fuel efficiency
By calling it a crossover, the Korean brand also wants to get in the minds of the consumer wanting more utility. We all know crossover sales are booming, and part of their likeability is their higher ride height and boxy, useable interior space. But after spending a full day driving the Niro in Texas Hill Country, the question stuck in my head was whether it is really a crossover. The Niro is just 3.3 inches taller and has the same ground clearance as the Hyundai Ioniq, which it shares its platform with. And in terms of passenger volume, the Niro has only a small advantage, encasing 97.1 cubic feet versus the Ioniq’s 96.2 cubic feet. Although its two-box design might help its case for being a crossover, I suspect most will just see it as a lifted hatchback.
You shouldn’t have any nasty surprises, either. Kia was rated as above average in our most recent reliability survey and the Niro also gets a seven-year/100,000-mile warranty – a class-leading feature.
Pros: Low CO2 emissions Spacious interior Long warranty
Cons: More conventional rivals are cheaper Not much fun to drive Firm low speed ride
