Buick has always strived to be a more luxurious and comfortable brand of vehicle. Upscale features and smooth designs, makes it feel like you’re driving a fancier model than its neighbors in the GM portfolio. In more recent years, Buick is defining itself as the functional, trendy brand, targeting younger generations unable to recognize the latest models in comparison to the Buicks their grandmas drove.

They’re beautiful vehicles with plenty of traditional upscale options. But one concern for most any driver with a smartphone is a vehicle’s ability to connect for hands-free usage. The Buick Enclave is gaining in popularity with its third-row seating and luxurious extras, and you may have your eye on one yourself. But, does it have Apple CarPlay, and will it pair for the voice command tech you need?

What Apple CarPlay offers drivers

Those drivers with iPhones want to know they can stay connected safely from the driver’s seat. Apple CarPlay allows you to do that and more. Pair your Apple device with your vehicle and navigate the CarPlay dashboard by voice command. Find and play your favorite songs, ask Siri for suggestions, or manage your calendar, without averting your eyes from the road ahead. Get turn by turn directions by simply asking for them. Make calls and dictate texts without taking your hands off the wheel.

What Buick Enclave offers new this year

New for 2020, the Buick Enclave is offering a new Sport Touring package, for the Essence trim. It’s a new appearance package that brings a sharp designed black mesh grille, and chrome and graphite, 20-inch wheels. New for every Buick Enclave variation this year, too, is an updated infotainment system with an eight-inch display. Available as an option is the 360-degree exterior cameras.

Infotainment and connectivity standards

In addition to that new eight-inch IntelliLink touchscreen, the Buick Enclave also has a few other infotainment based standards. You’ll enjoy a built-in Wi-Fi Hotspot with available 4G LTE data. This means up to seven devices can be supported from 50 feet away. But, can you connect via Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay connectivity

Regardless of trim level or package configurations, every Buick Enclave for 2020 comes fully integrated with Apple CarPlay. You can rest assured knowing you can expect and enjoy the hands-free connectivity with any variation. As a bonus, it may help to know Enclaves also come ready to pair with Android devices and offer Android Auto capability as well. Should you change your mind and preferences, and decide to be an Android device owner later, your Buick will still be compatible.

Driver assistance technology basics and extras

The tech extras don’t stop at infotainment and connectivity. You’ll love the healthy roster of driver assistance technology that Buick Enclaves offer as well. Available add-ons include pedestrian detection and automatic braking, lane-keeping assistance, and lane-departure warning systems. Many of the Enclave’s best driver aids are available at the higher trim levels.

Buick also offers Connected Access, a ten-year On-Star, connectivity upgrade that enables Buick Smart Driver and Vehicle Diagnostics. Leverage the ability to get feedback about your driving habits that can make you a better driver or help you save a little on car insurance. You can take advantage of available remote access and remote start as well.

If you aren’t entirely sold on the new Buick Enclave, you may need to take one for a test drive. Experience the comfortable seats, top-notch tech, and infotainment first-hand. At the very least, you know no matter what Enclave variation you choose, your iPhone will connect without a problem. Having those hands-free options standard makes picking the extras more about luxury than a necessity.