Side-impact airbags and all-disc antilock brakes are optional.

Driving Impressions
Despite structural similarities to the wildly styled Pontiac Aztek, Buick’s crossover model has a personality all 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 offers a generally soft ride, but its suspension hits some bumps rather hard. Its handling is undeniably minivanlike, which means it is reasonably precise with good steering feel and feedback.