The 2018 GMC Yukon XL receives only minor changes. The Denali version comes with a new 10-speed automatic transmission that should slightly improve fuel economy and acceleration. Other changes include a new chrome grille design and a new Denali Ultimate package with 22-inch wheels, a sunroof and a large helping of tech add-ons.
pros Seats up to nine passengers Plenty of cargo capacity, even with all the seats deployed Can tackle rough terrain when fitted with four-wheel drive High towing ratings
cons Size, weight and length make it unwieldy around town Slow gas pedal response makes engine feel weaker than rated Cargo space utility is limited by high load floor
Pros Safety alert driver's seat available Quiet cabin Spacious interior Easier-than-expected maneuverability
Cons Trucklike ride with body roll in corners Small cargo space behind third row (regular-length Yukon) Interior design too similar to Chevrolet siblings Some dashboard buttons could be larger
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.
