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:

    Outside Power Mirrors
    Controls for the outside power mirrors are located on the driver’s door armrest. To adjust the mirror: 1. Press the left or right side of the selector switch located beneath the control ...

    Portable Audio Devices
    Some vehicles have a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) auxiliary input and a USB port located in the center console. External devices such as iPods®, laptop computers, MP3 players, CD changers, and USB drives may ...

    SBZA Detection Zones
    The SBZA sensor covers a zone of approximately one lane over from both sides of the vehicle, or 3.5m(11 ft). This zone starts at each side mirror and goes back approximately 5.0 m(16 ft). Th ...