The 2019 Buick Enclave represents a significant moment for GM's largest crossover, arriving with a refined blend of comfort, capability, and premium technology. This model year solidified the Enclave's position as a serious contender in the three-row SUV segment, moving away from its earlier, more controversial design language. Buyers were greeted with a more sophisticated exterior, a quieter cabin, and a driving experience that finally matched the vehicle's substantial presence. Understanding the 2019 Buick Enclave specs is key to appreciating how the brand aimed to balance family practicality with luxurious appointments.
Exterior Design and Refinement
Visually, the 2019 Enclave signaled a new direction with its updated front fascia. The design adopted Buick's then-new "winged" grille, which provided a more aggressive and modern stance compared to the previous year's more polarizing look. The LED headlights and taillights were reshaped for greater clarity and visual impact, contributing to a more cohesive and upscale aesthetic. These changes were not merely cosmetic; they were part of a broader effort to enhance the vehicle's perceived quality and move it upscale in the competitive luxury SUV market.
Engine Performance and Capabilities
Under the hood, the 2019 Buick Enclave offered a single, robust powertrain option that defined its capabilities. The standard and only available engine was a 3.6-liter direct-injected V6, producing 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant was mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission and sent to the front wheels, with a available intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The AWD system, while not as complex as performance-oriented variants, provided excellent traction in various weather conditions, making the Enclave a confident cruiser in rain or light snow.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Given its size and power output, the 2019 Enclave's fuel economy was competitive within its class. EPA estimates placed the all-wheel-drive model at 17 miles per gallon in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating of 20 mpg. These figures were respectable for a three-row SUV of this caliber, allowing for reasonable range between fill-ups, especially during highway cruising. The efficient powertrain ensured that the vehicle's capabilities didn't come with an exorbitant fuel bill.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior of the 2019 Enclave was where the vehicle truly shone, showcasing Buick's commitment to a premium experience. The cabin was remarkably quiet, a testament to improved insulation and construction methods that made long journeys more relaxing. Available tri-zone climate control allowed the driver and front and rear passengers to set their own temperatures, a feature that highlighted the vehicle's family-friendly nature and attention to individual comfort.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Technology in the 2019 model was up to date, centered around an available 8-inch-diagonal touch-screen infotainment system. This interface ran Buick's IntelliLink system, which offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing for seamless connectivity with smartphones. The system provided intuitive access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. For those who desired the pinnacle of luxury, the available Avenir trim added features like a head-up display, enhanced safety technologies, and premium audio, setting a new standard for the segment.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety was a paramount concern for the 2019 Enclave, and it was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Standard safety features included rear vision backup, front parking assist, and a robust suite of Buick's Safety Confidence suite. This suite typically encompassed forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and available adaptive cruise control. These features worked in concert to provide a high level of protection for occupants on both urban streets and highways.
