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.

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    Leather
    Leather, and lighter colored leather in particular, will need more frequent cleaning to prevent the buildup of dust, dirt, and colors transferred from other items so that these do not become permanent ...

    Traction Control System (TCS)
    The vehicle may have a Traction Control System (TCS) that limits wheel slip. The system operates if it senses that one or both of the front wheels are slipping or beginning to lose traction. When this ...

    Windshield Wipers
    The windshield wiper lever is located on the left side of the steering column. Turn the band with the wiper symbol on it to control the windshield wipers. (Mist): For a single wiping cycle, h ...