China’s 2020 Buick Enclave Seven-Seat SUV Teased, Is Smaller Than U.S. Model

The Envision was the first SUV Buick imported from China to the U.S. and we know it won’t be the last as the all-new Encore GX will also make the trip across the Pacific next year.

Bucking the trend is the Buick Enclave SUV, unveiled in 2017 in the United States as an all-new 2018 model. We now learn that China will also get the Enclave later this year with seven seats as standard.

The thing is the China-spec Enclave will only have the name in common with the U.S. model. While Buick says the Chinese-spec Enclave will be based on GM’s C1 midsize and large luxury SUV architecture, it will use the short-wheelbase version of that platform instead of the long-wheelbase version that underpins America’s Enclave.

Also read: Buick’s Working On A New Crossover To Slot Between The Envision And Enclave

Patent photo of China-spec 2020 Buick Enclave

Therefore, the China-spec Buick Enclave will have more in common with the upcoming Chevy Blazer XL seven-seater than the U.S.-spec Enclave. Think of it as a more upscale version of the Blazer XL. The fact that it’s a different model will be reflected in the Chinese Enclave’s design as well. While it will share design cues with the larger U.S. model, it will feature distinct front and rear ends.

In the teaser image, we can see the rear end of the SUV which features different LED taillights with a new signature, as well as a straight chrome strip that unites them – on the U.S. model the trim is curved as it meets the lights). Buick does not show more of the SUV’s design but patent photos released in China earlier this year revealed a radically different front end with split headlights and a distinct bumper.

Patent photo of China-spec 2020 Buick Enclave

The 2020 Buick Enclave for China will feature a single engine choice, GM’s 230 HP (233 PS) 2.0-liter turbo-four mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. We can also spot an AWD badge in the teaser photo but the system will be optional.

Buick says China’s Enclave will feature “cutting-edge technology to meet the needs and wants of Chinese consumers,” including top-of-the-line Quiet Tuning technology, as well as advanced intelligent driving assist and connectivity systems.