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:

    Air Vents
    Air Vents Use the louvers located on the air vents to change the direction of the airflow. Use the thumbwheels near the air vents to control the amount of airflow or to shut off the airflow. Oper ...

    Transmission Messages
    SERVICE TRANSMISSION This message displays if there is a problem with the transmission. See your dealer. SHIFT TO PARK This message displays when the transmission needs to be shifted to P ( ...

    Control of a Vehicle
    The following three systems help to control the vehicle while driving—brakes, steering, and accelerator. At times, as when driving on snow or ice, it is easy to ask more of those control syste ...