Vehicle Overview

As the 2004 model year began, a midsize luxury sport utility vehicle dubbed Rainier joined the Rendezvous "crossover" model in Buick's lineup. Built with full-frame construction, the Rainier can carry up to five occupants.

Rainiers come with rear- or all-wheel drive. All are built on General Motors' short-wheelbase midsize SUV architecture, which is also used for the Chevrolet TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy. An electronically controlled rear air suspension is intended to produce a comfortable ride.

An inline-six-cylinder engine is standard, and it gains 16 horsepower for 2006. A 5.3-liter V-8 is optional. Woodgrain trim is standard on the instrument panel, doors and center console. Side curtain-type airbags are available.

Though it is intended primarily for driving on regular pavement, the all-wheel-drive Rainier offers offroad capability, according to Buick, and is said to be "very capable on . . . an unpaved, two-track road."

    See also:

    Heated Mirrors
    For vehicles with heated mirrors: (Rear Window Defogger): Press to heat the mirrors. See “Rear Window Defogger” under Automatic Climate Control System for more information. ...

    Audio/Video (A/V) Jacks
    If available, the A/V jacks are located on the rear of the floor console. They allow audio or video cables to be connected from an auxiliary device such as a camcorder or a video game system ...

    Making Turns
    Notice: Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. The vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering. ...