2020 Buick Enclave Essence Review, Hybrid, Accessories

Buick and GM announced the new Touring trim level for the 2020 season. That expands the lineup to five models. The entry-level is Preferred. Essence adds some cool features but keeps the price low. Premium reaches $50k, and the Avenir is top of the line package. The new model will take the position between these two. If we must choose the best one, then the 2020 Buick Enclave Essence offers optimal value for the features you get.

Enclave is a mid-size SUV and the largest vehicle in Buick’s lineup. Thanks to the special attention, this model offers the most accessories and features. The new generation of the SUV arrived in 2018, and the 2020 Buick Enclave Essence will introduce only minor changes compared to this model. So, expect the same drivetrain, equipment, and of course, price, all across the lineup, including the Essence trim. The biggest update is a new Touring version, so the rest of the lineup is getting only minor touches.

2020 Buick Enclave Essence Specs

Like for the entire squad, the 2020 Buick Enclave Essence is using a V6 engine. A 3.6-liter displacement is delivering 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Through a nine-speed automatic transmission, the energy is sent to front wheels by default setup. As a buyer, you have an option to upgrade the system to an AWD. The fuel economy will be harmed, but just a bit. With the FWD, Enclave returns 18 mpg in city and 26 mpg on the open road. These numbers are 17/25 mpg with an all-wheel drive mode. Start/stop system is standard for all trim levels, including Essence. Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

Hybrid

The new 2020 Buick Enclave Essence could be the entry-level for a hybrid system. The mid-size SUV needs such a configuration if the company wants to have a competitive vehicle in the segment. Some of its main rivals are already out with hybrid drivetrains, including Lexus RX 450h and Acura MDX.

General Motors will combine the existing petrol drivetrain with an electric battery. The result will be a better fuel economy and extra power. However, this is not going to be a radical upgrade. For better results, the company could use a new drivetrain. This would be a shocking move that can draw attention to the entire GM mid-size SUV squad (Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia, Cadillac XT6). With story yet to be confirmed by the General Motors, we can’t offer more details about the possible diesel engine based on the V6 powertrains.

2020 Buick Enclave Essence Features and Accessories

The 2020 Buick Enclave Essence is a seven-seat SUV. Front two rows will offer leather-appointed seats, which is not the case with the entry-level Preferred model. The Essence package also adds Air ionizer system for the cabin and the safety is getting a couple of upgrades. With this model, you get lane change alert (side blind zone warning included) and rear cross-traffic alert.

Standard Equipment

The list of standard features of the Essence suite is pretty long. It takes everything the Preferred package is offering and upgrades with above-mentioned systems. Outside, you will find 18-inch aluminum wheels and automatic headlights. The chrome strip is an eye-catching detail on the body-colored handles. A power liftgate is standard, and premium upgrades are LED logo projection and programmable mode. Turning signals are mounted on outside mirrors, which also come with heating function.

The interior is comfortable and equipped with premium details. Both driver’s and co-pilot’s bucket are adjustable, the first one in 8-ways, and the other in 6-ways. The highlight of the 2020 Buick Enclave Essence is an active noise cancellation system, which makes cabin pretty silent. A 6-speaker audio system, an 8-inch infotainment screen, and cruise control are standard as well. Essence trim also offers heated front seats, 6 USB ports, 3-zone climate control, and a rear-view camera with parking assist.

Optional Upgrades

The SUV also offers a lot of optional features that can boost the overall impression. Single upgrades or entire package groups improve the exterior appearance and interior comfort. For example, the standard audio system can be upgraded with the Bose 10-speaker sound. Larger wheels with special design make the Enclave more aggressive. Some features must seem to be minor, but they upgrade the impression.

Besides the standard offer, you can purchase an all-weather package with floor mats, floor liners, and cargo mats. Navigation is not standard with the base Buick Infotainment system, as well as the rear-seat entertainment with 8-inch screens, DVD player, and wireless headphones. Younger drivers will love to get tablet holders. Still, some cool functions are not available for the 2020 Buick Enclave Essence, such as wireless charging and the and ventilated buckets for the front row.

2020 Buick Enclave Essence Price

The 2020 Buick Enclave Essence adds $2,000 to the initial MSRP of the base model. It makes the price starting at $43,200. With upgrades, the Essence trim can reach almost $50k. Avenir is top of the range model which starts above this price.

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