New 2009 Buick Enclave

As far as luxury crossovers go, it’s easy to get refinement, terrible fuel economy, limited space and insufficient power.  However, the 2009 Buick Enclave doesn’t subscribe to that theory and makes it possible to have top-notch fuel efficiency and tons of space and power while remaining luxurious.

Available in two trim levels – CX and CXL – both models share a powerful 3.6-liter, 288-horsepower V-6 engine.  Both the CX and CXL are available in all-wheel (16 MPG city, 22 MPG highway) or four-wheel drive (17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway).  That’s better fuel economy than the more expensive competitors—Volvo XC90 and Acura MDX.

However, due to the Enclave’s large mass, it offers only marginal acceleration and pickup. The 6-speed automatic transmission with manumatic shifting is smooth, changing gears quickly. With the available Trailer Package, the Enclave can tow up to 4,500 lbs., which is adequate for most towing duties.

The Enclave’s interior has cavernous cargo space—116.2 cubic feet to be exact.  Seating can be configured to accommodate up to eight passengers in three rows of seats. The standard rear power and remote operated liftgate makes loading and unloading an easy affair. A rear-seat DVD player is sure to entertain passengers on long road trips. The standard CD player with MP3 playback, speed-compensated volume, auxiliary audio jack for your iPod®, and six speakers offers amazing sound quality and flexibility. Tri-zone automatic climate control offers individual settings for both front seat occupants and rear seat occupants.

Dual-stage front airbags and side-impact airbags along with side curtain airbags in all three rows combine with Rollover Protection to offer superior passenger protection in a collision. 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes help to prevent wheel lockup and shorten stopping distances. Standard Xenon High-Intensity Discharge headlamps create better nighttime illumination and visibility.

For those interested in the finer things in life at a non-luxurious price, the 2009 Buick Enclave will accomdate all of your precious cargo, save you money at the pump and look good doing it.