The 2019 Buick Enclave Premium represents a significant moment in the brand's history, marking the peak of a generation for this popular three-row crossover. Offered as the top-tier trim level, this specific model year combined refined luxury with robust capability, positioning itself as a sophisticated alternative to less expensive family haulers. For buyers seeking a premium experience without the lofty price tag of European competitors, the Enclave Premium delivered compelling value through its distinctive design and meticulously appointed cabin.
Under the hood, the 2019 Enclave Premium relied on a proven and capable powertrain that emphasized smoothness and reliability over raw excitement. A 3.6-liter V6 engine, generating 310 horsepower and 272 pound-feet of torque, provided ample power for everyday driving and highway merging. This power was sent to the front wheels through a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a composed and quiet ride that Buick is well-known for across its lineup.
Exterior Design and Presence
Externally, the 2019 Enclave Premium commanded attention with its bold Buick styling cues that signaled its premium status. The signature waterfall grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights, gave the front end a distinctive and upscale appearance that set it apart from lesser trims. The addition of premium 19-inch alloy wheels, chrome-accented side mirrors, and a subtle rear spoiler contributed to a cohesive and athletic stance, suggesting the capability to handle any journey with confidence.
Luxurious Interior Craftsmanship
Step inside, and the true essence of the Premium trim is revealed, as the cabin is a masterclass in luxury and comfort. Buick invested heavily in materials, surrounding the driver and passengers with soft-touch surfaces, genuine leather upholstery, and meticulously finished woodgrain accents. The available tri-tone seating surfaces, often in Ebony or Platinum configurations, provided a level of sophistication rarely seen in this class, creating an atmosphere that felt more like a luxury sedan than a family vehicle.
Technology and Infotainment
Keeping pace with the times, the 2019 Enclave Premium was equipped with a forward-thinking infotainment system that prioritized usability and connectivity. A standard 8-inch diagonal color touchscreen featured Buick's IntelliLink system, which ran on Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, allowing seamless access to smartphone apps and navigation. For the Premium trim, this was upgraded to a larger 8-inch-diagonal touch screen with enhanced graphics and functionality, providing a premium user interface that was both intuitive and responsive.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety was a cornerstone of the Premium experience, with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies included standard across the trim level. Features such as Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert worked in concert to provide a vigilant safety net. The available Driver Confidence Package further expanded this protection with technologies like Blind Zone Alert and Rear Park Assist, making the large Enclave surprisingly easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
The 2019 Buick Enclave Premium also excelled in providing practical, family-friendly amenities that enhanced the daily driving experience. The second-row captain's chairs offered exceptional comfort and easy access to the third row, while the available power liftgate with auto-close functionality added a touch of convenience that proved invaluable when juggling groceries or luggage. With a generous cargo capacity of 83.9 cubic feet behind the third row, this Premium model easily accommodated the needs of larger families on weekend trips or during daily commutes.
Performance and Handling Dynamics
While the focus remained on comfort, the 2019 Enclave Premium did not neglect the driving dynamics that make a journey enjoyable. The available Performance Suspension tuning firm up the ride and improve handling responsiveness without sacrificing the plush ride quality expected from Buick. This setup, combined with the available all-wheel-drive system, provided confident grip in various weather conditions, ensuring that the vehicle's substantial size felt stable and planted rather than cumbersome during spirited cornering or inclement weather.