Let's dive into the specifics of the 2017 Buick Enclave Leather! If you're considering this vehicle, or just curious about what it offers, you've come to the right place. We’ll explore everything from the interior comforts and technology to the performance and safety features that make this SUV a popular choice. Buckle up, and let’s get started!

    Interior and Comfort

    The 2017 Buick Enclave Leather trim is all about providing a premium experience. The leather upholstery is obviously a highlight, giving the cabin a touch of luxury. But it's not just about the feel of the seats; it's also about the overall design and comfort. The seats are designed to be supportive, making long drives much more pleasant. You'll find that the driver's seat often comes with power adjustments, including lumbar support, so you can really dial in your ideal driving position.

    Beyond the leather seats, the interior trim pieces are often upgraded compared to the base models. Think about wood-grain accents or brushed metal finishes that add a touch of elegance. The dashboard layout is generally well-organized, with controls that are easy to reach and understand. Buick really focused on creating a space that feels both functional and upscale.

    And let's not forget about space! The Enclave is known for its generous interior room, especially in the second and third rows. This is a big plus if you regularly carry passengers or need to haul cargo. Even with all three rows in use, there's still a decent amount of cargo space behind the third row, which is more than you can say for some other SUVs in this class. Plus, the third-row seats are relatively easy to fold down, opening up a massive cargo area when you need it.

    When it comes to comfort features, the Enclave Leather typically includes things like tri-zone automatic climate control, which allows the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers to set their preferred temperatures. This can be a lifesaver on long trips, especially if you have passengers who tend to get too hot or too cold. Other comfort features might include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and maybe even ventilated front seats, depending on the specific options package.

    Buick also pays attention to noise insulation, so the Enclave Leather tends to be pretty quiet inside, even at highway speeds. This makes it easier to have conversations with your passengers or enjoy your favorite music without having to crank up the volume.

    Technology and Entertainment

    In the realm of technology, the 2017 Buick Enclave Leather doesn't disappoint. The centerpiece is usually Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system, which includes a touchscreen display. The size of the screen can vary, but it's generally large enough to be easy to read and use while driving. The system typically includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, so you can stream music and make hands-free calls. It also usually has smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allows you to access your phone's apps, maps, and music directly on the car's display.

    Navigation is often included, either as a standard feature or as part of an optional package. This can be a real lifesaver if you're traveling to unfamiliar areas. The navigation system usually provides turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, and points of interest. Some Enclave Leather models may also come with a premium sound system, such as a Bose system, which delivers crisp, clear audio throughout the cabin.

    On the rear seats, you can find a DVD entertainment system that keeps the kids entertained during long drives. This can be a huge help on road trips or even just running errands around town. The system typically includes a screen mounted in the back of the front seats, along with wireless headphones so the rear passengers can enjoy their movies or shows without disturbing the driver.

    Other tech features you might find in the 2017 Buick Enclave Leather include a rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. Some models may also have parking sensors, which alert you to obstacles that are close to the vehicle. And let's not forget about OnStar, which provides services like automatic crash response, roadside assistance, and vehicle diagnostics.

    Performance and Handling

    When we talk about performance, the 2017 Buick Enclave Leather generally comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine. This engine is known for providing a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. It's usually paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and helps to optimize fuel economy. While the Enclave isn't exactly a sports car, it has enough power for everyday driving and merging onto the highway. The engine provides around 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, which is plenty for hauling people and cargo.

    The Enclave is typically front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is often available as an option. All-wheel drive can be a big help if you live in an area with snow or rain, as it provides extra traction and stability. The Enclave's suspension is tuned for comfort, so it tends to provide a smooth and composed ride, even on rough roads. It's not designed for sporty handling, but it's perfectly capable for everyday driving.

    The steering is generally light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver the Enclave in parking lots and around town. The brakes are also well-calibrated, providing confident stopping power. While the Enclave is a large SUV, it doesn't feel overly cumbersome to drive. It's actually surprisingly easy to live with on a daily basis.

    In terms of fuel economy, the 2017 Buick Enclave Leather typically gets around 18 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway, according to EPA estimates. These numbers can vary depending on driving conditions and how well the vehicle is maintained. But overall, the Enclave's fuel economy is pretty competitive for its class.

    Safety Features

    Safety is always a top priority, and the 2017 Buick Enclave Leather comes with a range of features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features typically include antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full suite of airbags. The airbags include front airbags, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags, which help to protect occupants in the event of a collision.

    Many Enclave Leather models also come with advanced safety technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you when there's a vehicle in your blind spot, making it safer to change lanes. Rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space or driveway. And lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane without signaling.

    Some Enclave Leather models may also have forward collision alert, which warns you if you're approaching a vehicle too quickly. This system can even automatically apply the brakes in certain situations to help prevent or mitigate a collision. Adaptive cruise control is another available feature, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you.

    The 2017 Buick Enclave has generally received good safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings are based on a series of crash tests and evaluations, and they provide a good indication of how well the vehicle is likely to protect occupants in a crash.

    Trim-Specific Features

    The "Leather" trim of the 2017 Buick Enclave is more than just leather seats. Here's a breakdown of what sets it apart:

    • Upholstery: Obviously, the leather seats are the most noticeable upgrade. But it's not just the material; it's also the quality of the leather and the stitching. Buick typically uses high-quality leather that feels soft and supple.
    • Interior Accents: The Leather trim often includes upgraded interior accents, such as wood-grain trim or brushed metal accents. These accents add a touch of luxury and help to elevate the overall feel of the cabin.
    • Heated Seats: Heated front seats are typically standard on the Leather trim, which can be a real comfort on cold days.
    • Memory Settings: Some Leather models may also have memory settings for the driver's seat, which allow you to save your preferred seating position. This can be especially convenient if you share the car with someone else.
    • Wheels: The Leather trim may also come with unique wheel designs that set it apart from the base models.

    Options and Packages

    The 2017 Buick Enclave Leather often had a variety of options and packages available, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and preferences. Some of the popular options and packages included:

    • Premium Package: This package typically includes features like a sunroof, a premium sound system, and navigation.
    • Driver Confidence Package: This package includes advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning.
    • Entertainment Package: This package includes a rear-seat entertainment system with a DVD player and wireless headphones.
    • Towing Package: This package includes a trailer hitch and other equipment needed for towing.
    • All-Wheel Drive: All-wheel drive was often available as a standalone option, providing extra traction and stability in slippery conditions.

    These options and packages could significantly add to the price of the Enclave Leather, but they also allowed buyers to create a vehicle that was perfectly suited to their needs.

    Conclusion

    The 2017 Buick Enclave Leather is a well-rounded SUV that offers a combination of luxury, comfort, and practicality. With its spacious interior, comfortable seats, and a host of technology and safety features, it's a great choice for families or anyone who needs a versatile vehicle. Whether you're commuting to work, hauling kids to school, or embarking on a road trip, the Enclave Leather is up to the task. If you're looking for a mid-size SUV that offers a touch of luxury without breaking the bank, the 2017 Buick Enclave Leather is definitely worth considering.