Is the Buick Enclave good in winter? Based on the high praise we've received from our customers at Summit GM, our answer is yes! Read on below to discover how this SUV efficiently handles snow, ice, and freezing temperatures thanks to intuitive additions such as its all-wheel drive system, winterized features, and safety technology. We're confident that you'll see why we think the Buick Enclave is one of the most reliable choices for cold-weather driving in Fort McMurray.

Key Takeaways

• The Buick Enclave excels in winter with features like Smart Climate Control and a robust all-wheel drive system, ensuring comfort and safety on icy roads.
• Equipped with advanced safety technologies such as Forward Collision Alert and Lane Keep Assist, the Enclave offers peace of mind during challenging winter driving conditions.
• Enhanced visibility features, including heated mirrors and a head-up display, help drivers stay aware of their surroundings, making the Enclave reliable in snow and ice.
• Comfort features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making winter drives more enjoyable.
• The Enclave's performance in freezing temperatures is bolstered by its Snow/Ice mode and drive mode selector, providing excellent traction and control on slippery roads.

Winter-Ready Features of the Buick Enclave

The Buick Enclave combines reliable performance and comfort with the safety features necessary to handle the rigours of driving around Fort Mac.

The Buick Enclave is packed with features that make it perfect for those chilly, snowy days in Fort McMurray. One of the standout features is the QuietTuning™ cabin, which keeps the noise from harsh winter weather outside, creating a peaceful driving experience. This makes every trip more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the road ahead.

With the Enclave’s Smart Climate Control system, you can set personalized temperatures for different zones in the vehicle. This means everyone inside stays comfy, no matter their preference. Passengers can adjust the temperature to suit their liking, crafting a cozy environment for all.

Even when the temperatures drop, the Smart Climate Control system ensures you stay comfortable. These thoughtful features transform the Buick Enclave into a warm retreat during Fort McMurray’s harsh winter months. With these winter-ready features, the Enclave is a top pick for those wanting to tackle the cold in style and comfort.

All-Wheel Drive System

Driving in Fort McMurray during winter can be tricky with those slippery roads and unpredictable conditions. That's where the Buick Enclave’s smart all-wheel drive (AWD) system comes in handy. This system steps up your traction game by kicking in the rear wheels when needed, making sure you stay steady on those icy or snowy streets. It gives you the confidence to face any winter challenge head-on.

When winter hits, the Enclave’s AWD system is your best friend, offering the stability and traction you need. By channeling power to the wheels that need it most, it helps prevent wheel spin and keeps you in control on those tricky surfaces. This is super helpful when you're navigating sharp turns or making sudden stops on those slick roads.

Many of our customers here in Fort Mac swear by the Enclave’s winter performance, especially when paired with the right tires from our tire shop. Choosing the right tires can make a huge difference, giving you that extra grip you need for winter driving. Whether you're dealing with a light dusting of snow or a full-on blizzard, the Enclave’s AWD system, combined with the right tires, ensures a smooth and safe ride.

Advanced Safety Technologies

High tech features like the forward collision alert system can help you drive safely even through the thickest of winter conditions.

When it comes to winter driving, safety is a top priority. The Buick Enclave equips you with advanced safety technologies that are perfect for tackling Fort McMurray's winter conditions. The Forward Collision Alert system is like having an extra set of eyes on the road, warning you about potential collisions with the vehicle ahead so you can take action in time. It's a proactive feature that helps keep accidents at bay.

Another handy feature is Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning. This system gently nudges the steering wheel if it detects you're drifting out of your lane, which can be a lifesaver on those slippery roads where maintaining lane discipline can be tricky. It keeps you on track even when the going gets tough.

And let's not forget the Automatic Emergency Braking, which jumps into action to reduce collision severity by applying the brakes when it senses a potential crash. Together, these advanced safety technologies form a robust safety net, making the Buick Enclave a dependable choice for winter driving around Fort Mac.

Comfort During Frigid Days

With its heated steering wheel and seats, the Buick Enclave offers all the comfort of home on the go.

When it comes to staying comfortable during those chilly Fort McMurray mornings, the Buick Enclave has got you covered. One of the most beloved features is the heated seats, which provide customizable warmth to keep you cozy during your drive. There's nothing like a toasty seat to make those early commutes more pleasant.

But that's not all—the Enclave also includes a heated steering wheel to keep your hands nice and warm. This not only boosts comfort but also ensures better control, as cold hands can sometimes slow down your reaction times. Steering wheels are essential for maintaining control, especially in winter conditions.

Together, these heated features create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making the Buick Enclave a fantastic choice for winter driving in Fort Mac. Whether you're heading out for a long drive or just popping over to the store, the Enclave makes sure you and your passengers stay snug, no matter how harsh the winter weather gets.

Enhanced Visibility Features

Visibility is crucial for safe winter driving, and the Buick Enclave is loaded with features to help you see clearly. One standout feature is the heated side mirrors, which fend off ice and fog, giving you a clear view of what's behind. This is essential for safe lane changes and reversing on Fort McMurray's snowy roads.

The Enclave also keeps an eye on your washer and wiper fluid levels, ensuring your windshield stays clean during those intense snowstorms. No more smudged windshields or frozen wipers—just crystal-clear visibility to keep you on track.

Plus, the available head-up display projects key driving info right onto the windshield, so you can keep your eyes on the road while staying informed. This is especially handy in winter when every second counts. With these visibility-boosting features, the Buick Enclave is a smart and dependable choice for navigating Fort Mac's winter conditions.

Performance in Freezing Temperatures

The Buick Enclave is a champ in freezing temperatures, making it a great pick for Fort McMurray's chilly winters. One of its coolest features is the Snow/Ice mode, which boosts traction on those slippery roads by dialing back acceleration and torque to cut down on wheel spin. It's like having a secret weapon for icy streets, making your winter drives a whole lot easier.

With the Drive Mode Control, you can switch between settings like Snow/Ice and AWD, tailoring the Enclave’s performance to match the road conditions. This flexibility means you're ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way, ensuring a smooth and safe ride with the drive mode selector.

Of course as we've noted before, the Enclave's prowess in snow really shines with the right set of tires. Winter tires can make a world of difference, giving you better grip and handling. Plus, you can switch modes on the fly, adjusting to the ever-changing winter weather in Fort Mac. This versatility makes the Enclave a dependable choice for winter driving, keeping you in control no matter the forecast.

Test Drive a Winter-Ready Buick Enclave Today

Visit Summit GM today to test drive a brand-new Buick Enclave, alongside many other exciting models from Buick, Chevrolet, and GMC.

Ready to experience the Buick Enclave’s winter capabilities in Fort McMurray? Schedule a test drive at Summit GM today and see firsthand how this midsize SUV conquers winter driving. From its advanced all-wheel drive system to its comfort and safety features, the Enclave is crafted to make navigating our local winter roads a breeze.

With a range of specials on new and used models, as well as parts and service tailored for Fort McMurray drivers, it's never been easier to get behind the wheel of a Buick Enclave. So, don’t wait—visit Summit GM, explore the vehicle, and take it for a spin around Fort Mac. You’ll quickly see why the Buick Enclave is the perfect choice for winter driving in our region. Test drive today!

Bought a new GMC Sierra recently? Choosing the best GMC Sierra tires is key to maximizing your truck’s performance, safety, and comfort. Whether you need tires for off-road adventures or highway driving in and around Fort Mac, this guide will help you find the perfect fit for your needs.

At a Glance:

• Choosing the right tires is key for optimizing performance, safety, and comfort in your GMC Sierra.
• Top brands like Michelin, Goodyear, and Bridgestone offer tires tailored for different driving needs, including all-terrain and seasonal options.
• Budget-friendly tires can still provide great performance, with options like the Continental CrossContact and Goodyear Wrangler Trailrunner delivering quality without high costs.

Why Your GMC Sierra Tires Matter

With the right tires, the GMC Sierra can hold its own as a rugged work truck for years.

Your GMC Sierra’s performance is heavily influenced by the tires you choose. Picking the right ones ensures your Sierra handles smoothly, maintains fuel efficiency, and stays safe in various driving conditions. It's all about having the right rubber on the road. For example, tires tailored for specific seasons can greatly boost vehicle performance and safety by adapting to Northern Alberta's volatile weather conditions.

Traction plays a key role in how your truck grips the road in different environments, especially for drivers in Alberta. This is particularly vital in wet or slippery conditions common during Alberta's snowy winters, where proper traction can be the difference between a smooth drive and a potential mishap. Alberta's diverse weather conditions demand tires that can handle both the cold, icy roads of winter and the hot, dry roads of summer, ensuring your GMC Sierra remains reliable year-round.

Tire size also affects vehicle handling, ride comfort, and fuel efficiency, making it an essential factor to consider. Keeping tire pressure at the recommended levels is important for ride comfort and safety, as under-inflated tires can lead to a bumpier ride.

How to Check Tire Sizes and Fitment

When figuring out the right tire size for your GMC Sierra, it's important to consider your specific model and year, as tire sizes can differ across various generations. If you're thinking about upgrading to larger tires, keep in mind that you might need some modifications to ensure everything looks and performs just right. Our team of certified technicians is always here to help you with this part!

For those of you in Fort Mac with modified GMC Sierras, make sure your new tire size provides enough clearance during full steering and suspension movement to avoid any rubbing issues. It's imperative that any new tire adjustments align with your Sierra’s overall specs and capabilities to keep everything safe and running smoothly. Northern Alberta's diverse terrains and weather conditions demand that your tires are up to the task, ensuring dependable performance and safety on the road.

Enhancing Ride Quality and Comfort

Comfort during drives can be enhanced by choosing tires with thicker sidewalls to reduce road vibrations and noise. Tires with a higher aspect ratio can lead to a more comfortable ride by better absorbing bumps and road imperfections.

General Grabber HTS tires provide a good balance of comfort and performance, making them a solid choice for daily driving. Avoid mixing different tire types or brands, as it can adversely affect handling and comfort, leading to a less enjoyable driving experience.

Top Recommended Tire Brands for GMC Sierra

Michelin, Bridgestone, and Goodyear have all proven their reliability and trustworthiness when it comes to tires, and their impact on the Sierra's performance is continued proof.

Selecting the right tire brand ensures superior performance, safety, and longevity for your GMC Sierra, whether you've opted for a the 1500, 2500HD, or the 3500HD. Among the top contenders, Michelin, Goodyear, and Bridgestone stand out for their commitment to quality and innovation. Michelin offers excellent all-season options with a focus on durability and comfort, making it a reliable choice for many Sierra drivers.

Goodyear, on the other hand, provides robust off-road performance, while Bridgestone excels in both wet and dry conditions. Consider your driving needs, budget, and specific features that cater to your GMC Sierra performance requirements when choosing a tire from these top brands. Each brand offers unique features, ensuring you find the right fit for your driving style and conditions.

Best All Terrain Tires for GMC Sierra

All-terrain tires provide versatility for GMC Sierra drivers in various driving conditions, perfect for those of you who are using your Sierra for work around the oil patches in Fort Mac. The Falken Wildpeak A/T3W is recognized as a quality mid-priced option designed for on and off-road performance, offering a balance of off-road capability and on-road comfort. Highly regarded for its all-weather performance, it suits various terrains.

Another top contender is the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A K02, known for its durability and off-road capabilities, making it ideal for our more adventurous drivers. This tire is highlighted for its balanced performance on both off-road terrains and highways.

Meanwhile, the Cooper Discoverer A/T3 provides reliable traction and performance at a cost-effective price, combining on-road comfort with off-road durability. Each of these all-terrain tires provides unique benefits tailored to different driving conditions and budgets.

The right all-terrain tire enhances your GMC Sierra’s performance, safety, and comfort on diverse terrains. Whether hitting the trails or cruising down Fort Mac's connecting highways, these tires ensure your Sierra is ready for anything.

Ideal OEM Tires for GMC Sierra

Choosing the right OEM tires for your GMC Sierra ensures that you're driving at top capacity right out of the gate.

OEM tires are specifically designed to match your GMC Sierra's specifications, ensuring compatibility and peak performance. These tires lay a dependable foundation, making sure you get the most out of your Sierra from the get-go. For Alberta drivers, this means you're set to handle the diverse and sometimes challenging road conditions right from the start.

The Michelin Defender LTX M/S, for instance, is designed for all-season versatility, offering a blend of comfort, longevity, and traction, making it a popular choice for the Sierra.

For the Sierra AT4, Goodyear Wrangler tires are a standard fit, suitable for both on-road and off-road driving. The GMC Sierra Denali models are usually equipped with General Grabber HTS60 tires, which are optimized for performance.

Seasonal Tire Options

With Fort Mac's chilly climate, a good collection of seasonal tires will help your Sierra run reliably all year round.

For Albertan drivers, choosing the right seasonal tires is key for adapting to the province's diverse weather conditions. The right tires ensure optimal performance, safety, and durability throughout the year, whether you're navigating icy roads in winter or enjoying the warm summer highways.

Summer tires are designed to provide optimal performance in warmer temperatures, offering superior grip and handling on both dry and wet roads. These are perfect for Northern Alberta's warm months, where road conditions can vary from dry to wet within a few seconds.

Winter tires, on the other hand, significantly improve traction and safety in snowy and icy conditions, a common scenario during Alberta's harsh winters. They are essential for maintaining control and safety on the province's icy roads.

All-season tires offer a compromise, designed to perform adequately in a wide range of conditions but may not excel in extreme weather. For Albertan drivers, these tires can be a convenient option if you prefer not to switch between summer and winter tires, although they may not offer the same level of performance in severe weather conditions.

Here’s a closer look at each type:

Summer Tires

Summer tires enhance driving performance in hot weather, offering excellent control and safety on the road.

They feature a rubber compound that remains flexible in warm conditions, improving traction on both dry and wet roads. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is highly recommended for summer driving due to its exceptional dry grip and high-speed stability. This tire maximizes your Sierra’s performance during the hot months.

Another excellent option is the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3, which provides strong braking performance and handling in warm weather, making it a top choice for summer tires.

Winter Tires

Winter tires are important for safe driving in snowy and icy conditions. The Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 offers outstanding grip and control on snow and ice, making it a highly recommended winter tire for the GMC Sierra. Its specialized tread design enhances grip on icy roads, ensuring reliable winter performance.

Another top choice is the Michelin X-Ice Xi3, known for its impressive ice and snow traction. Reliable winter tires provide the confidence and safety needed for driving in harsh winter conditions.

All-Season Tires

All-season tires perform adequately in a wide range of conditions. The Michelin Defender LTX M/S is regarded as a premium all-season tire offering excellent traction in diverse weather conditions. This tire contributes to a quieter ride while maintaining performance.

General Tire’s Grabber HTS is another versatile all-season tire ideal for GMC Sierra models. These tires offer good balance and performance, ensuring reliable traction and comfort throughout the year.

Off Road and Towing Tire Choices

The GMC Sierra is perfect for off-roading and heavy towing, and with the proper tires, you won't heave to worry about the long-term toll these activities will take on your truck.

If you're planning some off-road adventures or need to tow heavy loads with your GMC Sierra, it's important to choose tires that can handle the challenge. In Alberta, where the terrain can be as rugged as the Rockies, you'll want tires with the right load capacity to ensure they don't give out under the pressure.

All-terrain tires like the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac are a solid pick, offering the perfect mix of grip and durability. These tires are built to tackle Alberta's rough trails and keep your Sierra steady and safe when you're hauling a heavy load. Whether you're hitting the backcountry or towing a trailer, these tires have got you covered.

Budget-Friendly Tire Options

For GMC Sierra owners in Alberta seeking budget-friendly tire options that don't compromise on performance, there are great choices available. The Continental CrossContact LX20 is a fantastic option, crafted to perform well on highways and even handle mild off-road conditions. These tires strike a solid balance between performance and affordability, making them perfect for Alberta's diverse driving environments.

Another excellent pick is Goodyear’s Wrangler Trailrunner A/T, which offers durability and reliable performance without the hefty price tag. These tires ensure quality performance while keeping your budget in check, making them an ideal choice for those navigating Alberta's varied terrain. Whether you're cruising through the city streets or exploring the rugged backcountry, these budget-friendly tires have you covered.

Shop for GMC Sierra Tires at Summit GM

Visit Summit GM in Fort McMurray today to speak to our sales team about upgrading your Sierra's tires!

In summary, selecting the right tires for your GMC Sierra is vital for ensuring optimal performance, safety, and comfort. From top brands like Michelin and Goodyear to specific all-terrain and seasonal tires, the right choice can make all the difference.

Whether you need budget-friendly options or tires for off-road and towing, trusting Summit GM with all your tire needs ensures you’re well-prepared to make an informed decision. Drive safe and enjoy the road ahead with confidence!

The GMC Yukon is a great option if you're looking for a rugged truck, but with a range of engine options to choose from, you might be wondering which engine is the best option for you. Our team is here to help you decide between a GMC Yukon Diesel vs. Gas engine, based on the performance, fuel economy, towing capabilities, and pricing concerns of each.

Key Takeaways

• The GMC Yukon offers three engine options: a 5.3-liter V-8, a 6.2-liter V-8, and a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel, each catering to different performance and efficiency needs.
• The diesel engine excels in fuel economy, achieving 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, making it ideal for long-distance drivers compared to gas variants.
• Both diesel and 6.2-liter gas engines provide strong towing capacity, handling up to 8,400 pounds, with features enhancing towing safety.
• The choice between diesel and gas depends on driving habits, with diesel offering better fuel economy and range, while gas engines provide quicker acceleration.
• Cost considerations include a higher initial price for diesel, but potential long-term savings due to better fuel economy, alongside environmental impact differences between diesel and gas engines.

Performance Comparison

The GMC Yukon comes with a wide variety of engine options to suit your specific lifestyle and needs.

The GMC Yukon offers three engine choices to cater to different driving preferences. The 5.3-liter V-8 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, is a solid choice for everyday driving. If you're after more muscle, the 6.2-liter V-8 engine packs a punch with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.

The 5.3-liter V-8 is a well-rounded option, perfect for daily commutes and the occasional heavy-duty task. It strikes a good balance between power and efficiency, achieving 16 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, which is pretty decent for its category.

For those who need serious performance, the 6.2-liter V-8 is all about power. It's great for towing and heavy lifting, thanks to its 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, though it does trade off some fuel efficiency compared to the 5.3-liter.

Then there's the 3.0-liter turbo-diesel engine, which is a standout for its mix of power and efficiency. It offers 277 horsepower and matches the 6.2-liter V-8 with 460 lb-ft of torque. Known for its reliable performance and fuel economy, it's a top pick for those who hit the road often or need to tow frequently.

Fuel Economy Analysis

The variety of engine options for the Yukon means that you'll be able to tailor your driving experience towards everyday commutes or long drives.

One of the big factors in choosing between diesel and gas engines is fuel economy, and in this area, the GMC Yukon's diesel engine has a clear advantage. It achieves about 23 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. A major advantage of the diesel engine is its extended range. The Yukon diesel’s estimated 616-mile range on a full tank means fewer stops at gas stations, saving time and money. So if you're frequently driving long distances, diesel is the optimal choice over gas, according to our technicians.

Gas-powered Yukons, while not as fuel-efficient as their diesel counterparts, still manage to deliver decent mileage and better fuel economy. Take the 5.3-liter V-8 engine, for example; it clocks in around 16 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. If you're mostly driving around town or covering shorter distances, this level of fuel economy might be worth the trade-off for the extra horsepower and torque it offers.

Towing and Hauling Capabilities

Whether you're looking at a diesel or gas engine, the Yukon doesn't disappoint when it comes to raw power.

If you're all about towing and hauling, the GMC Yukon is ready to impress. The diesel engine is a powerhouse in this department, thanks to its hefty 460 lb-ft of torque, making it perfect for hauling those heavy trailers or boats with ease.

Now, the 6.2-liter V-8 gas engine is no slouch either. It matches the diesel with the same torque but throws in more horsepower, making it a solid choice for those heavy-duty tasks. With a max towing capacity of up to 8,400 pounds, the 2024 GMC Yukon is built to handle just about anything you throw at it, whether it's for work or play.

Plus, the Yukon comes loaded with features to make towing safer and simpler. The max trailer package includes enhanced cooling and a hitch receiver to get you ready for serious hauling. And with a trailer brake controller, you can manage towing tasks smoothly and safely, ensuring a stress-free experience.

Driving Experience

While diesel and gas engines both have their perks as far as the driving experience goes, the Yukon's comfortable interior promises a smooth ride regardless of which option you choose.

Taking the GMC Yukon for a spin is quite the experience. Its body-on-frame design gives you that solid, steady feel you'd expect from a full-size SUV with four wheels on the ground. Whether you go for the diesel or gas model, you're in for a consistently smooth ride, especially in the rear-wheel drive setup.

Step inside, and you'll notice how roomy and comfy the Yukon is. It's got plenty of space for families and long trips, making both the diesel and gas versions a hit with customers. Sure, maneuvering this beast in tight spots can be tricky, but the generous space for passengers and cargo more than makes up for it.

When it comes to driving dynamics, each engine has its perks. The diesel engine is all about torque, though it takes a bit longer to get up to speed due to its heft. On the flip side, the gas engines, especially the 6.2-liter V-8, are all about quick acceleration and a lively drive.

Cost Considerations

When it comes to the GMC Yukon, cost is definitely something to keep in mind. The diesel model usually has a higher sticker price than the gas version. Interestingly, the 6.2L V8 can sometimes end up being more expensive than the diesel, as pointed out by our sales team.

This price difference is due to the advanced tech and engine efficiency that the diesel option brings to the table. However, thanks to its better fuel economy, the diesel engine can help balance out that initial extra cost over time.

In the end, your choice really boils down to what you need and how you plan to use the vehicle. If you're often towing or hitting the open road, the diesel’s efficiency and longer range might make its higher upfront cost worthwhile. On the flip side, if you're mostly cruising around the city and want that quick acceleration, the gas engine could be your best bet. If cost is a big factor in your decision, you can also explore our financing options to figure out a plan that works best for you.

Environmental Impact

When deciding between diesel and gas engines, it's important to consider their environmental effects. Diesel engines, while more fuel-efficient, tend to emit more nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, which can affect air quality despite advancements in emission controls. This is something our more eco-conscious customers should keep in mind.

Gas engines, on the other hand, release fewer nitrogen oxides and particulates than diesel, but they still emit carbon dioxide and other pollutants that contribute to global warming. Although they may be less detrimental to air quality in the short run, their overall environmental impact is still significant.

In general, electric vehicles offer a greener option with zero tailpipe emissions and a smaller environmental footprint, especially when powered by renewable energy. However, producing EV batteries does come with environmental challenges. Even so, electric trucks typically have lower lifetime emissions compared to diesel and gas engines.

Summary

Visit Summit GM in Fort MacMurray to check out our wide selection of GMC Yukons!

In a nutshell, picking between the GMC Yukon diesel and gas engines really boils down to what you need and how you drive. The diesel engine is a champ when it comes to fuel economy and towing power, making it perfect for those long road trips and heavy-duty hauls. Meanwhile, the gas engines are all about that zippy acceleration and lively drive, which might be just what urban drivers are looking for.

Both options have their own perks and trade-offs. By weighing things like performance, fuel economy, towing strength, driving feel, costs, environmental impact, and tech features, you can choose the one that fits your lifestyle best. Whether you go diesel or gas, the GMC Yukon is ready to deliver a dependable and enjoyable ride. Visit us today or reach out to book a test drive, and see for yourself which one of these engine options is the perfect fit for you.