Buick’s reinvention continues with the introduction of the new 2025 Enclave SUV. General Motors (GM) has been working on revamping the Buick brand, and the Enclave is the latest vehicle to showcase their efforts. With updates to its technology, exterior design, and interior features, the 2025 Enclave completes Buick’s current lineup refresh.
The Enclave takes inspiration from the aggressive concept vehicle called the Wildcat, which was unveiled by Buick in 2022. This new design direction is evident in the Enclave’s larger front grill and “reverse check mark” headlights, giving it a more assertive and modern look. The rear of the SUV also features a truck-like appearance with angular lines and wide tail lamps.
Inside, the Enclave boasts a redesigned interior with a “floating” center console that adds to its sleek and modern aesthetic. It also includes a standard 30-inch diagonal, curved infotainment screen for enhanced connectivity and entertainment options. The SUV offers GM’s hands-free highway driving system, Super Cruise, as well as front heated seats, wireless charging, and other safety and convenience features.
In terms of performance, Buick is replacing the current V6 engine with a standard 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 328 horsepower and 326 foot-pounds of torque. This change aims to improve fuel economy and align with GM’s commitment to offering more sustainable options.
GM is not stopping at the Enclave; they plan to expand Buick’s lineup with a new all-electric vehicle in the near future. The company is conducting “design studies” to determine the direction of the brand and its offerings. Buick’s current lineup already includes the Encore GX, Envista, Envision, and Enclave crossovers/SUVs.
Buick’s transformation has been remarkable, according to Duncan Aldred, global vice president of Buick. He expressed enthusiasm and passion for the brand’s progress and hinted at more exciting developments to come. However, he did not provide specific details about additional nameplates or vehicles that could be added to Buick’s U.S. lineup.
Buick’s U.S. sales have been on the rise, with a 16.4% increase in the first quarter of this year. The brand has been growing its lineup and increasing average transaction prices for its top-end “Avenir” models. Avenir models accounted for about 25% of Buick’s sales in the first quarter. Aldred believes that with the introduction of the 2025 Enclave and the continued production of the Envista, Buick’s U.S. sales will continue to grow.
While Buick is experiencing growth in the U.S., the Chinese market tells a different story. Sales of Buicks in China have declined by about 40% since 2019, coinciding with a 32% drop in sales for GM in China. The rise of local car manufacturers has contributed to this decline. However, Aldred remains optimistic about Buick’s performance in China, stating that the brand remains healthy and successful there.
Overall, GM’s ongoing reinvention of the Buick brand is gaining momentum with the introduction of the new Enclave SUV. The updates to the Enclave, along with plans for a new all-electric vehicle and continued growth in sales, indicate a promising future for Buick. With its refreshed lineup and commitment to innovation, Buick is poised to make a strong comeback in the automotive industry.
