The 2012 Buick Enclave

The 2012 Buick Enclave is an elegant SUV with enough changes to spice up its image and invite new buyers eager to trade in trundling trucks and tired minivans for a luxurious, full-size SUV perfect for even large families.

On the surface, the 2012 Buick Enclave is slightly longer, its lines sleeker and more elegant, than its 2011 predecessor. It's available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and features many of the safety features also found on the 2011 model, including stability control, dual-stage front and side impact airbags for driver and first row passenger, side-impact airbags for passengers in rows two and three, a passenger sensing system for airbag deployment, and six months of OnStar free with purchase. Other features sure to keep the safety-conscious happy include a tire pressure monitoring system, traction control, and four-wheel anti-lock brakes.

The 2012 Buick Enclave comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine capable of generating 288 horsepower and features a six-speed automatic transmission. The base model gets an estimated 17 City/24 Highway mpg, though this decreases to 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, respectively, on the all-wheel drive model. All models also feature a 2,000 pound towing capacity, making them a good option for those who enjoy kayaking, camping, and other activities that require light-towing capabilities.

Among the 2012 Buick Enclave's creature comforts is an audio system that features speed-compensated volume, MP3 playback, and six speakers for a sound-rich experience. Sirius XM Satellite Radio is standard and the 2012 Buick Enclave comes with a free, three-month trial subscription, and Bluetooth technology connects cell phones to the SUV's audio system. It also features Buick's exclusive QuietTuning technology to reduce outside noise. Other features include eight-way power seat adjustment and lumbar control for the driver, tri-zone climate control, 60/40 flat-folding third row seating, and flat-folding second row captain's chairs.

If history is a guide, the 2012 Buick Enclave should hold its resale value very well. The car has remained a popular luxury SUV, though Buick is hoping its tweaks for the 2012 model year will increase its popularity and its share in the luxury SUV market. With the Enclave's sleek look, and luxurious interior, combined with its powerful engine and light towing capacity, it is an excellent choice for those interested in a full-size SUV that is both practical and comfortable.