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2017 Buick Enclave

Published on Dec 26, 2024 by Cassie Gould

The 2017 Buick Enclave is a standout in the midsize SUV market, offering a refined blend of luxury, comfort, and practicality that appeals to families, commuters, and anyone looking for a spacious, versatile vehicle. With its roomy interior, impressive suite of features, and a smooth, comfortable ride, the 2017 Enclave continues Buick’s tradition of delivering a high-quality driving experience. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into what makes this model so appealing, exploring its design, performance, technology, safety features, and more.

Refined Exterior Design

The 2017 Buick Enclave presents a sophisticated and upscale look that’s hard to miss on the road. From the moment you see it, the Enclave exudes class, with clean lines, a bold grille, and striking headlamps that make a strong first impression. Buick’s attention to detail is evident in the Enclave’s design, which includes chrome accents, beautifully crafted LED daytime running lights, and a sleek overall profile that offers a refreshing alternative to bulkier, less refined SUVs.
At the rear, you’ll find the iconic Buick emblem along with distinctive, beautifully integrated taillights. The Enclave’s elegant silhouette is further accentuated by its standard 19-inch alloy wheels, although 20-inch wheels are also available for those who desire an even bolder look. The Enclave’s understated yet commanding presence speaks to its luxury appeal, without the flashiness some competitors might have.

Spacious and Luxurious Interior

Step inside the 2017 Buick Enclave, and you’ll immediately notice its spacious, thoughtfully designed interior. This SUV can comfortably seat up to seven passengers across three rows, making it an excellent choice for larger families or groups. Buick has clearly focused on comfort, with high-quality materials used throughout the cabin, including soft-touch surfaces, wood-grain accents, and plush leather upholstery available on higher trims.
The front seats are exceptionally comfortable and offer ample support, even on longer trips. Both driver and passenger seats are power-adjustable and heated, with the option for ventilation in the higher trims. Second-row captain’s chairs provide an added touch of luxury, creating a spacious feel that’s easy for passengers to appreciate. And for families with kids, the third row is surprisingly accessible and roomy, offering sufficient space for adults as well.
In terms of cargo space, the Enclave shines with 23.3 cubic feet of storage behind the third row. Folding down the third row expands this space to 68.9 cubic feet, while folding both the second and third rows opens up a massive 115.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity. This flexibility makes the Enclave ideal for weekend getaways, road trips, or even just hauling around everyday essentials. Plus, the rear seats fold flat with ease, making it a breeze to maximize space when needed.

Advanced Technology Features

The 2017 Buick Enclave comes equipped with a wide array of technology features designed to enhance the driving experience and keep passengers entertained. At the center of the Enclave’s tech offerings is its IntelliLink infotainment system, which is housed on a 6.5-inch touchscreen. While this screen may feel small compared to some competitors, the interface is user-friendly, with large icons and responsive touch controls that make it easy to navigate through settings, media options, and navigation.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren’t available on the 2017 model, which may be a drawback for tech-savvy drivers, but Bluetooth connectivity is standard, along with USB ports and an auxiliary input. For music enthusiasts, the available Bose premium audio system provides an immersive listening experience, with rich, crisp sound quality that enhances every drive.
Rear-seat passengers aren’t left out, either—there’s an available rear-seat entertainment system that includes a DVD player and a flip-down screen, perfect for keeping kids entertained on long journeys. Other noteworthy features include tri-zone automatic climate control, which allows passengers to customize their climate preferences for optimal comfort, and a power liftgate that makes loading and unloading cargo a breeze.

Performance and Driving Experience

Under the hood, the 2017 Buick Enclave is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers 288 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, this engine provides the Enclave with a smooth and refined performance, making it an ideal choice for everyday driving and long-distance travel. The Enclave isn’t particularly quick off the line, but its V6 offers plenty of power for merging onto highways and passing slower vehicles.
One of the standout features of the Enclave’s performance is its smooth and comfortable ride. Buick has done an excellent job tuning the suspension, which soaks up bumps and road imperfections effortlessly, providing passengers with a serene and relaxing ride. This is especially valuable on longer trips, where the Enclave’s stability and quiet cabin make for an enjoyable experience. While it may lack the athletic handling of some of its competitors, the Enclave’s ride quality is undoubtedly one of its strongest points.
Drivers can choose between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), with AWD providing added traction and stability in adverse weather conditions. However, those opting for AWD should note that it slightly reduces fuel economy. Speaking of which, the Enclave achieves an EPA-estimated 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway with FWD, while AWD models see a slight decrease to 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. While these numbers aren’t class-leading, they’re reasonable given the Enclave’s size and V6 power.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is always a priority for families, and the 2017 Buick Enclave is equipped with a solid array of safety features to provide peace of mind on the road. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and a host of airbags, including side curtain airbags for all three rows. Additionally, the Enclave is built with a reinforced steel structure, which provides added protection in the event of a collision.
For those who want extra safety features, the Leather and Premium trims offer optional advanced safety tech, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision alert. These features are particularly valuable for busy roads and highways, where visibility can be limited, and they help to reduce the risk of accidents by alerting drivers to potential hazards.
The 2017 Buick Enclave has performed well in safety tests, earning high ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). With a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, the Enclave stands as a strong contender for families prioritizing safety. While it lacks some of the more advanced driver assistance features found in newer models, the Enclave’s suite of safety offerings is still impressive for its model year.

Trim Levels and Options

Buick offers the 2017 Enclave in three main trims: Convenience, Leather, and Premium. Each trim builds upon the previous one, offering more features and luxury options for those willing to spend a bit more.

  • Convenience: This base trim comes with standard features such as a power liftgate, rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and the IntelliLink infotainment system. It’s a solid choice for those who want the essentials without the extra frills.
  • Leather: As the name suggests, this trim adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, and more advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. It strikes a nice balance between luxury and affordability.
  • Premium: The top-tier Premium trim includes ventilated front seats, a Bose premium audio system, and the rear-seat entertainment system. It’s the perfect option for those who want all the extras, including the best available audio experience and added comfort features.

Each trim level has its own appeal, and with the option to add AWD across the lineup, buyers have the flexibility to choose a model that best fits their needs and budget.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

Buick has a reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the 2017 Enclave is no exception. This model has shown strong reliability ratings over the years, with many owners reporting minimal issues and consistent performance. Routine maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is essential to keep the Enclave running smoothly, and its popularity means finding replacement parts is relatively easy.
In terms of ownership costs, the Enclave’s fuel economy isn’t the most efficient in its class, but it’s manageable for those who prioritize comfort and space over fuel savings. Insurance costs for the Enclave are generally average for the segment, and Buick’s warranty coverage provides added peace of mind, especially for buyers looking to purchase a certified pre-owned model. Overall, the Enclave’s reliability, combined with reasonable maintenance costs, makes it an appealing choice for long-term ownership.

Resale Value and Market Appeal

The 2017 Buick Enclave holds a respectable position in the used car market, appealing to buyers looking for a high-quality, family-friendly SUV without the price tag of a brand-new model. Its strong reputation for comfort, reliability, and space has made it a sought-after choice for those shopping in the midsize SUV segment. The Enclave’s durability and Buick’s reputation for longevity mean that well-maintained models retain their value relatively well, particularly in the Premium and Leather trims, which offer a higher level of features and luxury.
Buick’s certified pre-owned program adds even more value for potential buyers, as it includes an extended warranty and thorough inspection process, giving additional peace of mind to those investing in a pre-owned Enclave. Given the Enclave’s appeal among families and its refined, timeless design, it continues to attract a broad range of buyers, from parents looking for ample space and safety to solo travelers who appreciate the SUV’s plush interior and smooth driving experience.

Owner Satisfaction and Community Feedback

Owner satisfaction for the 2017 Buick Enclave remains high, with many drivers praising its comfort, spacious interior, and overall driving experience. The Enclave has earned a loyal following among owners who appreciate its quiet, luxurious cabin and family-friendly design. Common positive feedback highlights the SUV’s smooth ride, ample legroom, and versatile cargo space, making it a popular choice for families, retirees, and professionals alike.
Community forums and online reviews are filled with testimonials from Enclave owners who enjoy its long-term reliability and Buick’s attentive customer service. Many owners note that the Enclave has exceeded their expectations for a midsize SUV, with several drivers reporting satisfaction in how well the vehicle holds up over time, even with regular use for road trips or daily commuting.
A recurring theme in feedback is the Enclave’s strong sense of quality and comfort, with owners often mentioning how the vehicle feels "a class above" competitors in its segment. While some might wish for more advanced technology features, the overall owner experience tends to be positive, with a high percentage of owners indicating they would recommend the 2017 Enclave to friends or family. The sense of pride and satisfaction shared by the Enclave community speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and the value it brings to those who choose it.
Whether it’s the reliability, refined ride, or family-centered features, the 2017 Buick Enclave has proven itself as a trusted companion on the road, keeping its owners happy and engaged long after the initial purchase.

Shop at Kunes Chevrolet GMC of Elkhorn

Kunes Chevrolet GMC of Elkhorn is the go-to destination for top-notch automotive sales and service in the region, conveniently located to serve drivers from East Troy, Mukwonago, and Waukesha, WI. Situated in Elkhorn, WI, the dealership is ideally positioned to meet the needs of these nearby communities, offering a vast selection of Chevrolet and GMC vehicles, expert maintenance, and unparalleled customer care. Whether you're looking for a new truck, SUV, or a pre-owned vehicle, or you need reliable automotive services, Kunes Chevrolet GMC of Elkhorn has everything you need—all just a short drive from East Troy, Mukwonago, or Waukesha.

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