After a pandemic-related yearlong delay, the 2022 mid-cycle refreshed Enclave Avenir has made its debut. Despite no major changes to its already competent drivetrain, the 2022 Enclave features a heavily revised front fascia replete with high mounted daytime running lights with lower mounted headlights, which are all the rage these days.
Newly gone from the rear of the Enclave are the bumper integrated exhaust finishers, no doubt a design decision made with an electric future looming. In their place is a design element that recalls recalls the previous finishers, which give a nod to the former design instead of completely faking it. I’m looking at you, VW and Audi. Overall the exterior updates are cohesive, well-executed and do not look like a collection of afterthoughts as sometimes happens mid cycle refreshes.
According to Buick press materials, the interior boasts two major changes: the addition of a push-button gear selector in place of the previous bizarre joystick and an available color Head-Up Display. The latter is a welcome addition to the Enclave, which missed out on this feature even though it was available on the first two generations of its platform mate, the GMC Acadia. Finally, it is the Enclave’s turn.
The Avenir trim rewards buyers with trim exclusive features such as unique front and rear fascias, unique interior trim with special sew patterns and piping on heated and ventilated massaging front seats, adaptive cruise control, and enhanced emergency braking. Continuous Damping Control is also available.
Standard across the range is a 310hp 3.6L V6 with a ubiquitous nine-speed transmission and available AWD. Although not quoted in the press literature, we expect the Enclave to have the same 266 lb-ft of torque and 5,000 lb towing capacity with the optional trailering package as the current model. Most if not all models will have updated wheel designs.
Optional is the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package, with automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, lane change alert with side blind zone alert, rear park assist, forward collision alert, following distance indicator, rear cross traffic alert, and IntelliBeam auto high beams.
The Enclave continues to be a bargain in the three row luxury crossover segment and we are looking forward to seeing this redesign in person when it goes on sale in the Fall.
See the full 2022 Buick Enclave Avenir gallery here.
