The 2018 Buick Enclave hones its appeal with beautiful style, much-improved handling, and no-nonsense technology.
Pros Expressive sheet metal Spare and elegant cockpit Good third-row space Much-improved handling Still rides smoothly
Cons Base seats are cloth All-wheel drive is part-time Fuel economy still just average Best safety features not pervasive Pricey Avenir trim level is more a feature-unlock code
The Avenir name is something new entirely. It's a new sub-brand that Buick is introducing on the Enclave that adds another layer of luxury onto the standard model. It will sit above the Premium model that was previously the most feature-rich trim level offered on the Enclave. Standard features on the Enclave Avenir include a unique mesh grille, 20-inch wheels and exclusive interior colors and materials. The individual features aren't striking on their own, but taken together they do make this Enclave look a step above anything offered on its predecessor. Apart from the Avenir upgrades, the Enclave follows much the same formula as the previous model. It's a spacious three-row crossover with a standard V6 and a new nine-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers 302 horsepower to either the front wheels or all four wheels on all-wheel-drive models. Towing capacity is up to 5,000 pounds and we expect overall mileage to improve slightly.
The fully redesigned 2018 version is hugely important as the brand’s grandest offering.Buick’s latest three-row ute succeeds in being a marked improvement over its predecessor in every meaningful way.
Pros Shapely design, tons of usable space, refined road manners, lots of available features.
Cons Prices climb quickly with options, a tight third row for three, some cheap bits still visible.
For 2017, the standard Sync 3 touchscreen infotainment system gains Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone interfaces. A power liftgate and an automatic brake hold feature are also added to the already ample standard features list.
Pros More standard features than many of its competitors Heavily insulated cabin remains quiet at all times Order the optional adjustable suspension for an especially supple ride.
Cons Less room in the backseat and cargo area compared to many competitors Slower than average acceleration from either of its available engines Some interior materials look cheap considering the price point.
The 2017 Lincoln MKC ranks 8 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. If you're looking for a luxury SUV with a comfortable, relaxed ride and an upscale, feature-laden interior, the 2017 Lincoln MKC could meet your needs. However, if you can stretch your budget a bit more you can get an SUV with better performance and more cargo and passenger space.
Pros Hushed cabin Cushioned ride Generous list of standard features
Cons Little rear-seat legroom Mediocre cargo room Noticeable turbo lag from base and upgraded engines
The 2017 MKC is a step in the right direction for Lincoln, thanks to controlled handling and interior luxury, but it lacks rear seat space and the cachet of its luxury rivals.
Pros Strong turbocharged engines Responsive steering, handling Nicely detailed cabin Real. Radio. Knobs. Leather and wood (from Scotland, no less)
Cons Tight back seat EcoBoost engines aren't always 'eco' Transmission doesn't always match engine's urgency The anonymity of Lincoln today
