Driving Impressions

Despite structural similarities to the wildly styled Pontiac Aztek, Buick's crossover model has a personality of its own. Automatic-transmission responses are quick and easy. Acceleration is good, if not exactly inspiring. The Rendezvous runs very quietly and offers plenty of versatile space. The gauges are notable in appearance, but they're not the easiest to read at a glance.

The Rendezvous delivers a generally soft ride, but its suspension hits some bumps rather hard. Handling is reasonably precise with good steering feel and feedback, very much like what drivers might expect from a minivan.

    See also:

    Compass
    Compass Operation There is a compass display in the upper right corner of the mirror. Compass Calibration Press and hold to activate the compass calibration mode. CAL displays in the compass ...

    Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
    The arrows on the instrument panel flash whenever signaling a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps also flash, telling other drivers the vehicle is turning, changing lanes, o ...

    Seat Recall
    Press the customization button until SEAT RECALL: OFF appears in the display. To select your preference for recall of the driver’s memory seat, mirrors, and adjustable pedals, if your vehicle ha ...