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:

    StabiliTrak® System
    The StabiliTrak system assists with directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. The system is on when the vehicle is started. To turn off both Traction Control and Stabil ...

    Delayed Entry Lighting
    The interior lamps will turn on if you open the door when it is dark enough outside. When you close the door with the ignition off, the interior lamps will stay on for up to 25 seconds or until ...

    Checking Engine Oil
    It is a good idea to check the engine oil level at each fuel fill. In order to get an accurate reading, the vehicle must be on level ground. The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop. See En ...