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:

    Towing with a Stability Control System
    When towing, the sound of the stability control system might be heard. The system is reacting to the vehicle movement caused by the trailer, which mainly occurs during cornering. This is normal wh ...

    Battery Power Protection
    The battery saver feature is designed to protect the vehicle's battery. If some interior lamps are left on and the ignition is turned off, the battery rundown protection system automatically tu ...

    Curve Tips
    • Take curves at a reasonable speed. • Reduce speed before entering a curve. • Maintain a reasonable steady speed through the curve. • Wait until the vehicle is out of the curve bef ...