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 ...

    Defensive Driving
    Defensive driving means “always expect the unexpected.” The first step in driving defensively is to wear the safety belt. See Safety Belts . WARNING Assume that other road users (pedestrian ...

    When the Change Engine Oil Soon Message Displays
    Change engine oil and filter. See Engine Oil . An Emission Control Service. When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message displays, service is required for the vehicle as soon as possible, within the next ...