The 2017 Buick Enclave interior represents a significant evolution for GM’s three-row midsize luxury SUV, blending refined materials, intuitive technology, and thoughtful space management. Moving beyond the rugged exterior, the cabin is designed to provide a quiet, comfortable haven for both drivers and passengers on long commutes or extended road trips. With its focus on quality over quantity, the Enclave offers a premium feel that competes directly with the likes of the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander.
Design and Materials: A Shift Toward Modern Luxury
Upon entering the 2017 Enclave, the first impression is one of sophistication. Buick replaced the previous generation’s hard plastics with softer-touch materials and higher-grade leather finishes, creating an atmosphere more akin to a luxury sedan than a family hauler. The dashboard layout is clean and driver-focused, with a prominent center stack that rises naturally toward the steering wheel, guiding the driver’s sightlines logically.
Color Schemes and Trim Levels
The interior color palette is more restrained and refined than ever, featuring upscale options like Brandy, Ebony, and Platinum. These hues are complemented by contrast stitching and meticulously crafted trim pieces, including metallic finishes on the climate controls and piano-black accents. The available leather upholstery not only looks luxurious but also proves to be more durable and easier to clean than cloth, a practical choice for families who value both style and usability.
Seating and Space: Comfort for All Three Rows
One of the Enclave’s strongest suits is its genuine three-row seating capability, and the 2017 model year enhances this with improved cabin quietness and seat comfort. The front-row bucket seats offer substantial support and are power-adjustable on most trims, providing excellent ergonomics for the driver. The second-row bench seat is a standout feature, easily accommodating three passengers in relative comfort, with ample legroom that makes it a practical choice for carpooling.
Front Row: Power-adjustable heated seats with multi-way lumbar support.
Second Row: Expansive 60/40 split bench with ample legroom for adults.
Third Row: Suitable for children or occasional adult passengers, with better headroom than many rivals.
Technology and Infotainment: User-Friendly Integration
The 2017 Enclave introduces Buick’s latest generation of infotainment, centered around an available 8-inch-diagonal color touchscreen. The system runs on the IntelliLink platform, which remains responsive and logically organized, minimizing driver distraction. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are available on higher trims, allowing seamless access to navigation, music, and messaging apps through the vehicle’s native interface.
Advanced Safety and Driver Aids
Safety is integrated thoughtfully into the cabin, with available features like Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning becoming standard on premium trims. The rearview camera provides a clear image, and available blind-spot monitoring adds an extra layer of confidence during lane changes. These systems are presented via an easy-to-read instrument cluster display, ensuring critical information is accessible without overwhelming the driver.
Powertrain and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2017 Enclave is powered by a reliable 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower, mated to a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain combination delivers confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising, with the eight-passenger seating configuration not unduly affecting performance. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing road imperfections gracefully while maintaining a composed feel through corners.
