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:

    Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control
    If the cruise control system is already activated: • Move the thumbwheel toward SET/− and hold until the desired lower speed is reached, then release it. • To slow down in small am ...

    When the Light Is On Steady
    This indicates that one or more of the tires are significantly underinflated. A Driver Information Center (DIC) tire pressure message may also display. See Vehicle Messages for more informati ...

    Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
    AUDIO: To adjust the balance between the right and the left speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until BAL (balance) displays. Turn the knob to move the sound toward the right or the left s ...