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:

    Headlamp Delay
    Press the customization button until HEADLAMP DELAY: 10 SEC appears in the display. To select your preference for how long the headlamps will stay on when you turn off the vehicle, press the selec ...

    To Use the Engine Heater
    1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The electrical cord is located on the passenger side of the engine compartment, near the air cleaner. 3. Plug it into a n ...

    StabiliTrak® System
    The StabiliTrak system assists with directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. The system turns on automatically every time the vehicle is started. ► To turn off both t ...