Enclave Avenir combines 3-row luxury with AWD ability

The 2025 Buick Enclave Avenir, Buick’s flagship SUV, combines luxury and practicality for families seeking comfort without venturing into the ultra-luxury price tag. Priced at a base of $58,000, this SUV positions itself as an upscale alternative to mainstream three-row SUVs, with my test model coming in at $65,125 when equipped with all-wheel drive ($2,000) and the Super Cruise Package ($3,730).

Design

The Enclave Avenir’s design is sophisticated yet approachable. Its sleek exterior features a distinctive grille, subtle chrome accents, and 22-inch alloy wheels with a pearl nickel finish that gives it an upscale presence without being ostentatious. The new LED lighting and sculpted lines further enhance its premium feel.

Inside, the cabin offers a serene environment. Buick’s QuietTuning technology minimizes road and wind noise, making it easy to carry on conversations or enjoy the premium Bose sound system. High-quality materials, including leather-appointed seating, are used throughout the cabin. The Avenir trim adds exclusive touches like wood-tone accents and embroidered headrests.

I had the chance to take my tester on a road trip to Southern Illinois and it proved to be a wonderful way to travel for five adults (and lots of baggage). Seating for seven is standard, with captain’s chairs in the second row and a three-seat bench in the third.

While the front and second rows are plush and spacious, the third row is better suited for children or smaller adults, as legroom can feel a bit tight. Cargo space is generous, offering 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 97.4 cubic feet with all seats folded flat – more than adequate for road trips or Costco runs.

Performance

The 2025 Enclave Avenir is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine delivering 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. I found the engine to deliver smooth acceleration, and the transmission had seamless shifts across the range, making the Enclave a comfortable cruiser both on highways and in city traffic.

The optional all-wheel drive system adds confidence in adverse weather conditions, although it’s worth noting that it slightly impacts fuel efficiency. The Enclave achieves an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway with all-wheel drive.

Buick has also equipped the Enclave Avenir with a well-tuned suspension that prioritizes comfort. While it’s not as sporty as some European rivals, the handling is composed, and the ride quality is plush – ideal for families seeking a stress-free driving experience.

Tech

The Enclave Avenir comes packed with modern technology. The centerpiece is an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The interface is intuitive, but some competitors offer larger screens at this price point.

The Super Cruise Package ($3,730) is a standout feature. This advanced driver-assistance system allows for hands-free driving on compatible highways, enhancing convenience on long trips. While it’s not a substitute for full autonomy, it’s a significant step forward in making driving less taxing.

Safety is another strong suit, with standard features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Enclave Avenir earned high marks in crash tests, further solidifying its family-friendly credentials.

Final thoughts

The 2025 Buick Enclave Avenir strikes a fine balance between luxury and practicality. With a base price of $58,000 and a fully equipped cost of $65,125, it’s not inexpensive but offers a compelling package for families seeking a premium three-row SUV. While it may lack the cutting-edge styling or performance of some rivals, it excels in delivering comfort, space and advanced technology.

• John Stein is a freelance journalist based in Chicago. He has more than 25 years of experience driving, testing and writing about the automotive industry, its latest innovations and new vehicles.