2016 Buick Enclave AWD Review – Spacious Luxury for the Family-Oriented Driver
Introduction
The 2016 Buick Enclave AWD is a three-row midsize crossover SUV that blends understated luxury with practicality and comfort. Built with families in mind, the Enclave offers expansive seating, generous cargo space, refined styling, and a quiet, smooth ride. Positioned between mainstream SUVs and high-end luxury brands, the Enclave strikes a balance that appeals to buyers looking for premium features without the premium price tag.
This all-wheel-drive version is especially suited for those living in regions with varied weather conditions or those who prioritize confidence on slippery roads. In this detailed review, we’ll explore the 2016 Buick Enclave AWD’s design, powertrain, ride quality, interior features, technology, safety, fuel economy, and ownership experience.
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Exterior Design – Elegant and Conservative
The Enclave's design emphasizes refinement over flash. Its smooth, flowing lines, chrome accents, and signature waterfall grille give it a dignified look. For 2016, the Enclave remains largely unchanged in appearance, retaining its mature aesthetic.
Exterior Highlights:
Signature Buick waterfall grille
HID xenon headlights with LED accent lighting
19-inch aluminum wheels (20-inch on higher trims)
Power rear liftgate
Heated power-adjustable mirrors
Optional dual-pane sunroof with fixed rear skylight
Though not sporty, the Enclave exudes upscale styling that blends in well at both school drop-offs and valet stands.
Engine and Performance
All 2016 Enclave models come with the same powertrain: a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The AWD system provides additional traction and stability in slippery conditions.
Powertrain Specs:
Engine: 3.6L V6
Horsepower: 288 hp @ 6,300 rpm
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 3,400 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Towing Capacity: Up to 4,500 lbs with trailering package
This V6 delivers adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. It isn’t a performance SUV, but it moves confidently with a full load of passengers or cargo. The AWD system is fully automatic and engages as needed, providing added grip without any driver input.
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Ride and Handling
Where the Enclave truly excels is in comfort and composure. Its suspension setup and sound insulation are tuned to prioritize ride quality and quietness.
Driving Dynamics:
Fully independent suspension
MacPherson struts (front) and H-arm rear suspension
StabiliTrak electronic stability control
Available adaptive dampers (Premium trim)
The Enclave delivers a serene ride, soaking up road imperfections with ease. It handles corners predictably but without athleticism—steering is light and accurate, geared toward comfort rather than sportiness.
Interior Design and Comfort
Inside, the 2016 Enclave boasts a spacious, quiet, and upscale cabin with room for up to eight passengers (seven with second-row captain’s chairs). Materials are soft-touch and well-assembled, and the layout is intuitive and welcoming.
Interior Highlights:
Standard cloth upholstery (leather on Leather and Premium trims)
Heated front seats (ventilated in Premium trim)
Power-adjustable driver and passenger seats
Tri-zone automatic climate control
Ambient interior lighting
QuietTuning acoustic technology for a hushed cabin
The seats are plush and supportive, offering excellent comfort even on long road trips. The third row is more spacious than in many competitors, suitable for adults on shorter trips or teens and children regularly.
Interior Dimensions:
Passenger Capacity: 7 or 8
Front Headroom: 40.4 in
Second Row Legroom: 36.8 in
Third Row Legroom: 33.2 in
Cargo Volume (behind 3rd row): 23.3 cu ft
Max Cargo Volume: 115.2 cu ft
The Enclave’s interior versatility makes it an ideal choice for growing families, frequent carpoolers, or those needing extra storage space.
Technology and Infotainment
While not cutting-edge in 2016, the Enclave’s infotainment system includes all the essentials. Controls are user-friendly, and audio quality is above average, especially with the optional Bose system.
Tech Features:
IntelliLink infotainment with 6.5-inch touchscreen
Bluetooth phone and audio streaming
SiriusXM Radio and USB/Aux inputs
Rearview camera (standard)
Navigation system (available on upper trims)
10-speaker Bose premium audio system (Premium trim)
Rear-seat entertainment system (optional)
The system responds quickly, and the display is clear. The lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto may be a drawback for some, but smartphone connectivity is still functional via Bluetooth.
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Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety has always been a priority for the Enclave. It received strong crash test ratings and includes a suite of safety features, especially in the upper trims.
Standard Safety Equipment:
Rearview camera
Rear parking sensors
StabiliTrak with traction control
Full suite of airbags, including side-curtain airbags for all three rows
OnStar with automatic crash response
Available Safety Features (Leather and Premium trims):
Crash Test Ratings:
These features and ratings make the Enclave a secure choice for families concerned about protection and accident avoidance.
Fuel Economy and Ownership Costs
Given its size and V6 engine, the 2016 Enclave AWD’s fuel economy is average for the segment.
EPA Ratings (AWD):
City: 16 mpg
Highway: 22 mpg
Combined: 18 mpg
Ownership Costs:
Warranty: 4-year/50,000-mile basic; 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain
Maintenance: Routine maintenance is affordable and predictable
Insurance: Moderate for a midsize SUV
Depreciation: Moderate, but better than some luxury competitors
Buyers should expect a balance between capability and efficiency, with fuel costs slightly higher than a smaller crossover, but justified by the added space and comfort.
Real-World Driving and Family Usability
The Enclave’s true strengths come into play during day-to-day family use. It’s comfortable, quiet, and has excellent cargo flexibility. The sliding second-row seats make third-row access easy, and the flat-folding seats allow for large item transport.
The AWD system provides reassurance in poor weather, and the elevated ride height offers excellent road visibility. The Enclave’s calm and composed demeanor makes it a great highway cruiser.
Parents will appreciate the quiet cabin and spacious interior, while kids will love the rear-seat entertainment and ample legroom.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Smooth and quiet ride quality
Upscale and spacious interior
Roomy third row and cargo capacity
Strong safety scores and features
Confident all-weather AWD capability
Cons:
Modest fuel economy
Outdated infotainment system by 2024 standards
No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Not as sporty or responsive as smaller SUVs
Ideal Buyer for the 2016 Buick Enclave AWD
The 2016 Buick Enclave AWD is ideal for:
Families who need 3-row seating and cargo space
Drivers looking for comfort and luxury without luxury pricing
Buyers in cold-weather climates seeking all-weather capability
Shoppers prioritizing safety and ride comfort over sportiness
Conclusion
The 2016 Buick Enclave AWD is a well-rounded, family-friendly SUV that prioritizes comfort, safety, and practicality. With its elegant styling, roomy interior, and premium features, it remains a strong contender in the used three-row SUV market.
It may not be the flashiest or most tech-savvy option, but for those seeking a refined, dependable, and versatile vehicle, the Enclave delivers. Its all-wheel-drive capability, luxury appointments, and strong safety credentials make it a smart choice for families and daily drivers alike.
If you're searching for a 2016 Buick Enclave AWD for sale near Norfolk or Virginia Beach, stop by Your Kar Company at 7912 Becket Street, Norfolk, VA 23518 to explore our inventory and financing options today.
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Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Interested parties should confirm all data before relying on it to make a purchase decision. All prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Prices may not include additional fees such as government fees and taxes, title and registration fees, finance charges, dealer document preparation fees, $599 processing fee, and emission testing and compliance charges. VADLR5929-7574800100.
