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:

    Trip/Fuel Menu Items
    (Trip/Fuel): Press this button to scroll through the following menu items: Odometer Press the trip/fuel button until ODOMETER displays. This display shows the distance the vehicle has been d ...

    Jump Start (eAssist Only)
    This display allows for on-board jump starting of the vehicle. See “Jump Starting (On-board with eAssist Only)” for more information. ...

    Using Universal Home Remote
    Press and hold the appropriate Universal Home Remote button for at least half of a second. The indicator light will come on while the signal is being transmitted. ...