2018 Buick Enclave revealed in New York, Avenir luxury badge debuts

Compared to the model before it, the Enclave has taken on a more conventional and handsome crossover design rather than its MPV-like predecessor, while also introducing a suite of new infotainment and driver assistance technologies.

Some of the features available include a new 8.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 4G Wifi hotspot, hands-free tailgate, rear cross traffic alert, autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian protection, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, along with a surround camera system.

The Enclave retains its three-row seating layout, with interior space claimed to be up by 10 per cent over its predecessor.

In conjunction with the reveal of the new Enclave, Buick has also given details of its new 'Avenir' sub-brand, which takes the name of the 2015 Buick Avenir concept.

For the Enclave, the Avenir grade gets unique 20-inch six-spoke alloy wheels, wood trim on the steering wheel, duo-tone chestnut and ebony interior colour scheme, wireless phone charging, dual sunroof, along with heated and ventilated front seats.

Buick is yet to reveal which other models in its line-up will receive the Avenir treatment, though it has confirmed all future offerings under the sub-brand will feature an exclusive three-dimensional mesh grille with chrome wings to distinguish them from their lesser counterparts.

A possible candidate for the Avenir treatment is the new-generation Buick Regal - which will be known here has the Holden Commodore when it arrives next year.

Holden has ruled out the new Enclave for our market for the time being, choosing to focus on the upcoming Equinox (below) and Acadia SUVs.

Speaking with CarAdvice, Mark Flintoft, manager for product communications at Holden, said: "The Buick Enclave looks like a cracking SUV, however we have nothing to announce at this time."

"Holden will concentrate its SUV offering on the redesigned Trax and Australian-engineered Trailblazer, with the new Equinox and Acadia set to add to the SUV line-up later in 2017 and 2018 respectively."

However, the local arm hasn't entirely ruled out new models like the Enclave, with Flintoft adding the company will continue to evaluate global offerings for our market.

"Holden is committed to leveraging GM’s global portfolio to provide the best vehicles for Australia and will continue to evaluate all future vehicles,"  he said.

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