A Best Buy in Midsize SUVs

Receiving a modest makeover for the 2013 model year that includes updated exterior and interior styling, the Enclave midsize crossover SUV remains among the best in the business because of its accommodating interior and pleasing performance. The SUV’s 3.6-liter, 288-hp V6 engine comes mated to an improved six-speed automatic transmission that we found to be nominally quicker and smoother than the version that it replaces. The suspension was tweaked to improve upon ride and handling characteristics that already were among the best among comparable SUVs. An industry-first center-mounted air bag that’s positioned between the front seats is designed to help to protect the driver from injury in collisions on the passenger’s side when he/she is the only occupant.