On another rare upgrade streak at LAX...

http://www.buick.com/enclave/

This Enclave AWD in CXL trim had several options, including a power sunroof with additional skylight, CD changer, 19" chrome wheels and a Driver Confidence Package including rear parking assist, for a grand total of $40,685.

And a picture of the cocoa-colored Enclave in question, with one of its cocoa-colored cousins?
http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/6412/enclavefn3.jpg

Powertrain: The Enclave comes with GM's HF 3.6L V6 with 275 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque. A model motor in terms of power and refinement, it eagerly propels the Enclave towards redline with only the faintest of sounds, even on hard acceleration. The standard six-speed automatic is smooth in relaxed driving, but acts clumsy during downshifts and some upshifts -- possibly due to less aggressive tuning for fuel economy? Speaking of which, the Enclave is at an EPA-estimated 16/22 mpg city/highway, and in mixed driving I've seen about 17.1 mpg.

Ride/Handling: Comfort admittedly outranks performance in the Enclave, but this isn't your father's Buick. The chassis feels planted and steering is generally communicative in terms of feedback. Body roll exists, but is better controlled that one would expect for a large crossover. Buick's signature QuietTuning is more than just marketing spin here, as the Enclave delivers solid marks in terms of wind, road and drivetrain noise. Brakes are linear and confident in their feel, and stopping distances are similarly commendable.

Interior: The Enclave interior is delightfully comfortable and spacious. Ergonomics are simple, and tactile and materials quality are beyond reproach. There were however, a few build quality issues, such as a misaligned dashtop compartment door, and a sticky console armrest mechanism. First and second-row space (with captain's chairs) are excellent, and third-row space is quite roomy -- even more than that of the larger Tahoe. Seats are supportive and comfortable, and cargo is easy to load and manage in the rear.

Design: For a relatively mainstream vehicle, the Enclave's eye-catching styling (especially its cocoa hue) got a surprisingly noticeable amount of attention on the roads. The sweeping profile at some angles looks a bit bloated, but overall the design is clean, and the various elements of detailing such as portholes and chrome trim are well integrated. Of particular note are the blue "angel eyes" rings in the headlight cluster -- very slick. ^ The interior IMO is also gorgeous -- while some reviewers don't seem to like the mix of lines and trim, I like the use of wood, metal and plastic, and contrasting colors. Visibility is good overall, and the instruments are easy to read, with a white/green electroluminscent motif for the essential gauges.

Features: The Enclave CXL as equipped had several interesting features such as a power rear liftgate, bi-xenon headlights, front and rear climate control, rear parking assist and a skylight with power sunshade for the second row.

Value: The Enclave is classed as YL, putting it in similar rate brackets as other L-class vehicles like the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer, as well as Z-class vehicles like the Mazda CX-9 and Jeep Commander. While I personally prefer the sportier Mazda, for comfort and luxury the Buick is tops. As I've posted before on the Hertz board, I think GM is the most resurgent automaker in Detroit, and the Buick Enclave is one of the best pieces of evidence of that. ^

To sum it up:

The Good
Bold styling
Spacious and luxurious interior
Interesting features
Confident and refined dynamics

The Bad
Transmission response sometimes confusing