If you’re shopping for a three-row SUV in Matteson, Illinois, safety is likely your top priority. Between I-57 commuting, winter snowstorms, and busy suburban traffic near Chicago’s Southland, families need an SUV that delivers top crash protection and advanced accident-prevention technology.
So how does the Buick Enclave’s safety performance compare to competitors like the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Highlander, and Kia Telluride?
Here’s everything Illinois buyers need to know.
Buick Enclave Safety Ratings (2025–2026 Models)
✅ IIHS Top Safety Pick+
The latest Enclave models have earned the Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety — the highest safety award available.
To qualify, a vehicle must excel in:
- Small overlap front crash tests
- Side impact protection
- Updated rear passenger safety tests
- Pedestrian crash prevention
- Headlight performance
What this means for families: The Enclave performs exceptionally well in protecting both front and rear passengers — an important factor for three-row SUVs.
✅ NHTSA 5-Star Overall Rating
The Enclave also earns high marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, including strong overall crash ratings.
Why this matters in Illinois: With unpredictable winter road conditions, strong rollover resistance and crash protection are critical.
Standard Safety Features on the Buick Enclave
One major advantage of the Enclave is how many driver-assistance features come standard, not locked behind expensive trim upgrades.
Standard Buick Driver Confidence Package Includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Forward Collision Alert
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Front Pedestrian & Cyclist Braking
- Rear Park Assist
- IntelliBeam® Auto High Beams
Higher trims also offer:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- 360-degree HD Surround Vision
- Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist
- Super Cruise® (hands-free highway driving)
For Matteson drivers commuting toward Chicago, features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring are especially valuable during heavy traffic conditions.
How the Enclave Compares to Competitors
Buick Enclave vs. Honda Pilot (Safety Comparison)
The Honda Pilot is widely respected for safety and typically earns strong crash ratings.
Comparison highlights:
- Both SUVs offer comprehensive driver-assist suites.
- The Enclave earns the higher Top Safety Pick+ designation under updated IIHS criteria.
- The Pilot’s Honda Sensing suite is competitive but may require higher trims for certain advanced features.
Verdict: Both are safe choices, but the Enclave edges ahead in updated crash testing recognition.
Buick Enclave vs. Hyundai Palisade
The Palisade has earned strong safety ratings in previous years.
Key differences:
- The Enclave qualifies for the highest IIHS award under newer, stricter standards.
- Some Palisade models have faced recalls involving seatbelt components.
- Both offer strong standard driver-assistance systems.
Verdict: The Enclave provides broader validation under updated crash criteria.
Buick Enclave vs. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander includes Toyota Safety Sense™ and strong reliability scores.
Comparison highlights:
- Both offer automatic emergency braking and lane assist.
- The Enclave provides a more luxury-focused interior while maintaining top crash ratings.
- Highlander Hybrid models offer fuel economy advantages, but safety tech is comparable.
Verdict: Safety is strong in both — decision may come down to interior comfort and driving feel.
Buick Enclave vs. Kia Telluride
The Telluride is a popular family SUV known for value and styling.
Comparison highlights:
- Both earn strong crash ratings.
- The Enclave’s quieter cabin and premium features appeal to buyers wanting a more upscale experience.
- Safety features are competitive across both vehicles.
Why Safety Matters for Matteson, IL Buyers
Living in the Chicago South Suburbs means dealing with:
- I-57 and I-80 highway traffic
- Snow and ice in winter
- Busy suburban intersections
- Long commuter drives
The Buick Enclave’s combination of:
- Strong crash test scores
- Pedestrian detection
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control
- Available AWD
makes it well-suited for Illinois driving conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Buick Enclave a safe family SUV?
Yes. The Buick Enclave earns top crash test ratings and includes advanced driver-assistance features designed to prevent accidents.
Does the Buick Enclave have automatic emergency braking?
Yes. Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection is standard on current models.
What safety rating does the Buick Enclave have?
Recent models qualify for IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and earn strong NHTSA crash ratings.
Is the Buick Enclave safer than the Honda Pilot?
Both are very safe. However, the Enclave earns the highest IIHS award under updated testing standards.
Final Verdict: Is the Buick Enclave One of the Safest SUVs in Its Class?
For Matteson, IL families shopping for a three-row SUV, the Buick Enclave stands out as one of the safest options in the midsize segment. It combines:
✔ Top crash ratings
✔ Comprehensive standard safety tech
✔ Optional hands-free driving technology
✔ Strong rear passenger protection
When compared to rivals like the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Highlander, and Kia Telluride, the Enclave holds its own — and in some updated crash categories, leads.
If you’re researching SUVs near Matteson or the greater Chicago area, focusing on safety first is the smart move — and the Buick Enclave deserves a serious look.
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