Introduced for the 2002 model year, Buick’s crossover model blends the virtues of a sedan, sport utility vehicle and minivan. Buick hoped the Rendezvous would attract more young buyers and counteract the brand’s appeal to older motorists.

Depending on the seating configuration, five or seven people can fit inside this vehicle. A fully independent suspension aims to ease the ride quality. The Mexican-built Rendezvous comes in two forms: as the front-wheel-drive CX model and the higher-level CXL with Versatrak all-wheel drive (AWD).

Buick will add a Rendezvous Ultra trim level early in 2004. It will be equipped with a posh interior and a new dual-overhead-cam 3.6-liter V-6 engine. Billed by the manufacturer as “unpretentious luxury,” the Ultra promises more power and less noise and vibration; it will compete against the popular Lexus RX 330. Monochromatic exterior paint includes a body-colored grille. Wood decorates the instrument panel and console, and the gauges are trimmed in chrome.