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:

    Battery
    Refer to the replacement number shown on the original battery label when a new battery is needed. See Engine Compartment Overview  for battery location. WARNING Battery posts, terminals, an ...

    Safety Belts
    This section of the manual describes how to use safety belts properly. It also describes some things not to do with safety belts. WARNING Do not let anyone ride where a safety belt cannot be worn ...

    Driving On Grades
    Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before starting down a long or steep downgrade. If the transmission is not shifted down, the brakes might have to be used so much that they would get hot and ...