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Enclave is the largest SUV in Buick’s lineup. The vehicle entered the second generation last year. For the season 2020, the company added the new, most luxurious trim level, Avenir. Although fans expected this concept to become a reality for five years, the most interesting offer is going to be the 2020 Buick Enclave Essence.
As a kind of the mid-range offer, the SUV will offer more than the base unit, but it doesn’t cost too much more. On the other hand, savings are big compared to the high-end version. The Essence package is better than the entry-level Preferred. It still lacks features you will get with Premium option. Avenir is a top-tier model that costs more than $50,000.
The highlights of the 2020 Buick Enclave Essence are unique grille with chromed details, 360-degree camera, power sunroof, and wireless charging. For the full review and specs, continue reading our review.
Highlight Features
The 2020 Buick Enclave Essence will take all the equipment from the base trim level, Preferred. Plus, this model upgrades the offer with the unique features and accessories. There, we will find leather seats for first two rows. Also, the Essence trim brings lane departure warning and side blind zone alert, plus the rear cross traffic alert. Air ionizer is standard for the cabin.
Interior
Standard equipment for the 2020 Buick Enclave Essence is also infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display. Bluetooth 2 audio can be connected to the phone. Buick offers compatibility with Android and Apple smart phones through specialized applications. Improved voice commands and Siri Voice Recognition are also standard for the Essence trim level. Six USB ports are available, and the system can download third-party apps. The cabin is pretty quiet thanks to the active noise isolation and special equipment that will keep engine sound outside.
The 2020 Buick Enclave Essence is a seven-seater with heated front row. Leather seats are making the SUV luxurious and elegant. Tilt and telescoping steering wheel is making the drive easier and comfortable. Of course, it is wrapped in leather. Steering wheel command buttons are easy to use, and the driver’s information center is shown on a 4.2-inch screen.
Exterior
The Essence package includes 18-inch wheels and all-season tires. Roof rails and rear spoiler are standard options. Side mirrors are heated and turn signal indicators are also integrated. Drivers can adjust them with buttons. Door handles are in body color. Power liftgate is standard.
2020 Buick Enclave Essence Engine Specifications
Under the bonnet of the 2020 Buick Enclave Essence is a 3.6-liter V6 engine as the only available drivetrain. It is capable to produce 310 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission is sending power to front wheels. The other option is an all-wheel drive. Combined fuel economy is 21 mpg, while for the AWD is 20 mpg. The towing capacity of the mid-size SUV is 5,000 pounds, but only properly equipped, while the standard hauling capability is 1,500 lbs.
Hybrid
Compared to the competition, Buick Enclave lacks other options. For example, Lexus RX and Acura MDX are coming with the hybrid drivetrains. General Motors still doesn’t offer any electrified engines for its larger models. All their mid-size SUVs (Cadillac XT6, Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia) are losing the pace with the competition. But, we can hear rumors about the new hybrid model based on a V6 powertrain. However, GM is still quiet about it and we don’t have precise details.
For example, Lexus is combining a 3.5-liter petrol engine from the standard model with electric motor. Honda, and its premium segment Acura, are using a smaller displacement. But, MDX can achieve more power and better fuel economy. Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer are the newest SUVs in the segment with PHEV technology. So, the situation is clear. General Motors must make a move to keep their models competitive in the market.
2020 Buick Enclave Essence vs Preferred, Premier, Avenir
The mid-size Enclave also offers three other trim levels, besides the Essence. The entry-level model is Preferred. It comes with most abovementioned equipment, minus the special upgrades for the Essence package. Its base price for 2020 season is $41,200. More significant price bump comes with the Premier version. Here, the luxury is raised to the new level with Bose audio system. The most notable safety upgrade is front collision alert. Front seats are also getting ventilating and massaging function, while the heating is already available for the Essence model.
The new class-leading SUV is Avenir. The company presented this vehicle back in 2015. However, the concept is not the same as the production version. We expected the larger SUV, the Avenir became the part of the 2020 Enclave lineup. Unique styling is highlighted with the special grille. Also, the safety is getting even more features, including HD surround vision. Wireless charging is standard, and the overall impression is getting the boost by the power moonroof. This model will cost you at least $55,000. That is $12,000 more than the 2020 Buick Enclave Essence.
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