2008 Buick Enclave Photo Gallery

The experts are always predicting the demise of Buick. Too much like Cadillac, too much like Chevrolet. Stuck in the middle, and doomed to go, just like the late, lamented Oldsmobile brand.

I'm inspired to share a little Buick history and lore:

Buick was founded in Flint, Michigan in 1903 by David Dunbar Buick, who sold his company in 1904 to James Whiting. Whiting hired William C. Durant, who turned Buick into the biggest car company in the U.S., and used it as the first building block in what would become General Motors. As such, Buick is one of the oldest automotive brands in the world. Back in the middle of the 20th century, Buicks were known as "doctor's cars" -- luxurious enough for a well-to-do physician, but not as ostentatious as a Cadillac or a Lincoln. There were Buick families, and families who aspired to Buick ownership.

Today, as Buick is more of a marketing strategy than an actual distinct brand, it's interesting that the Enclave crossover vehicle has emerged bearing the Buick name. Mechanically, it's nearly identical to the GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook, but emotionally, it's a world away. Both the GMC and Saturn brands have strong identities -- perhaps the contrast between the GMC, Saturn and Buick crossovers will help bring the Buick brand back into focus.

Take a look at this 2008 Buick Enclave Photo Gallery, and see what you think.

Photo © General Motors