Midsize Three-Row SUV

Buick Enclave

⚠ Caution

Mixed signals, know the tradeoffs

#6 of 7in Midsize Three-Row SUV

244 sources · updated June 2026

⚠ Low risk

Transfer case failures on 2017-2019 models are the primary systematic risk—multiple independent owners report the same catastrophic split failure (case cracks, dumps fluid, fails at highway speed). Mismatched tire sizes accelerate this failure. The 2025 redesign uses a new platform and should not carry this risk forward.

A plush three-row that trades on deep discounts and a hushed cabin, but the 2018-2024 generation carries a documented transfer case weakness. Multiple owners report the same failure: the case splits catastrophically at highway speed, dumping fluid and stranding the vehicle, sometimes with only 30k-70k miles on the clock. When it works, you get adult-sized third-row space, a genuinely quiet ride, and dealer incentives that undercut Honda and Toyota by thousands. The catch is you're rolling dice on a known mechanical fault, and mismatched tires accelerate the failure. The all-new 2025 redesign swaps the V6 for a turbo four and starts fresh on a new platform, so the old gremlins shouldn't follow, but there's zero long-term proof yet. Buy used and you're gambling; buy new and you're hoping Buick learned its lesson.

The generation that matters

This product isn't one story — here's how each era is regarded.

2nd generation (2018–2024)

2018–2024

Solid

V6-powered models regarded as reliable family haulers with spacious interiors and quiet cabins, though some transfer case failures reported on 2017 models and timing chain concerns on later years.

3rd generation (2025+)

2025–present

Mixed

Redesigned with turbo 4-cylinder replacing V6; praised for upscale styling and tech (Super Cruise, 30-inch screen) but early reports of camera/screen glitches and concerns about long-term durability of new powertrain.

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Common complaints6 issues

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−Transfer case failures on 2017-2019 models, multiple owners report catastrophic splits at highway speed

−Timing chain 'lifetime' design fails around 150k miles on older models, expensive repair

−Limited cargo space with third row in use

−Bland, uninspiring handling and driving dynamics

−New 2025 turbo four-cylinder replaces proven V6, unknown long-term reliability

−Resale value suffers from 'old person' brand perception

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What owners praise6 strengths

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✓

Exceptionally quiet and comfortable cabin, praised for smooth, hushed ride quality

✓

Spacious second and third rows with genuine adult-sized seating

✓

Strong value proposition, often available with significant dealer discounts ($5k-$8k off MSRP)

✓

Loaded with tech features in higher trims (Super Cruise, advanced safety)

✓

Comfortable for long road trips when mechanically sound

✓

Good towing capacity (5,000 lbs with towing package)

📊 How this score was calculated — 6-dimension rubric

High confidence▼

244 sources analysed with long-term owner data present

244 sources analysed — strong data quality

Reliability & Durability(22%)4.0

8 positive vs 12 negative long-term reports

User Sentiment(22%)3.9

187 positive upvotes vs 298 negative upvotes

Complaint Severity(16%)6.6

Complaints: 7 cosmetic, 28 functional, 9 systematic, 3 safety

Consensus Strength(8%)1.9

Opinion is use-case dependent — product divides opinion by intended use

Value for Money(15%)4.3

9 'worth it', 4 'overpriced', 11 mention better-value alternatives

Owner Advocacy(17%)5.1

2 repurchased/gifted, 6 unprompted recommendations, 7 regrets

Scores are percentile ranks: 5.0 is the median product in existence. 8.5+ is reserved for genuinely exceptional products (top ~10%). The score reflects consensus quality, what owners say about the product. Risk is tracked separately and shown above the summary when present. Both are calculated deterministically, so the same signals always produce the same score.

How we score every product →

Specifications2026

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Pricing

Starting MSRP

$48,395

Range

$48,395 - $61,995

Capability

Towing capacity

5,000 lbs

Fuel economy