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:

    Easy Exit Driver Seat
    This feature moves the seat rearward allowing the driver more room to exit the vehicle. To activate, place the ignition in OFF and open the driver door. If the driver door is already open, pl ...

    Tilt Wheel
    The steering wheel should be adjusted before you drive. The tilt lever is located to the left of the steering column, under the turn signal lever. It can be raised to the highest level to give ...

    Outside Automatic Dimming Mirror
    If the vehicle has this feature, the driver side mirror adjusts for the glare of headlamps behind you. This feature is controlled by the on and off settings on the automatic dimming rearview mir ...