Overview & Reviews

At its debut, the Buick Rainier added a bit of diversity to the brand's rather uniform lineup. Joining a family of mostly big, softly sprung sedans, this truck-based, midsize SUV became the first Buick in a long time with traditional body-on-frame construction and rear-wheel drive (with optional all-wheel drive), enabling it to carry a considerable amount of cargo (80 cubic feet) and tow heavy loads (up to 6,700 pounds).

Buick sourced the majority of Rainier's design from General Motors' midsize SUV platform. This meant that there wasn't much variation between it and its GM sport-ute brethren like the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy and Oldsmobile Bravada -- the third of which the Rainier effectively replaced when the Olds division was discontinued.

Of this core SUV grouping, the Buick Rainier was meant to be the most comfortable and upscale. Buick's exclusive rear air spring suspension made the Rainier the most successful at concealing ruts in the road, and the effects of Buick's "QuietTuning" could be heard in its near-silent interior. The Rainier also earned a bit of initial distinction as it was the only regular-length SUV of the bunch to offer an optional V8 engine. (The Rainier was never offered in extended-length seven-passenger form.) Finally, Buick's SUV came with the most standard equipment.

Sadly, all the extra effort didn't cure the Buick Rainier of its deepest family flaws. The combination of a high stance, high weight, a softly tuned suspension and a live rear axle penalized handling on several fronts. Handling was sloppy even by truck-based SUV standards. The Rainier's numb steering needed continual corrections to hold a straight line and its rear end felt loose and unstable in extreme handling situations. It also guzzled more gas than any modern Buick, and its interior was marred by cheap and mismatched materials, illogical controls, a lack of storage space, subpar build quality and fatiguing seats.

The Rainier partly redeemed itself with smooth and strong powertrains, competitive acceleration and a plush, quiet ride. But compared to other competing upscale SUVs, Buick's entry failed to completely deliver in the important categories of refinement, feature content and handling. For consumers shopping used midsize SUVs, we suggest taking a look at more qualified and desirable vehicles such as the Mercury Mountaineer, Toyota 4Runner or Volkswagen Touareg. Another good option is Buick's new large crossover SUV, the Enclave.

Most Recent Buick Rainier

The Rainier debuted for 2004 and received minor changes over its four-year run. Initially it was offered in CXL and CXL Plus trim levels with the six-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque and the 290-hp (320 lb-ft) V8 available as an option. Aside from its significant increase in torque, the V8 also featured a cylinder deactivation system that saved a little fuel when cruising. Either way, a four-speed automatic transmission was standard, and both engines were available with rear- or all-wheel drive.

The following year, Buick dropped the Plus trim and the optional front seat-mounted side airbags. In their place, full-length side curtain airbags became available. In 2006, stability control became standard, the inline-6 gained 16 hp for a total of 291 and the V8 was pumped up to 300 hp.

The Buick Rainier midsize SUV was discontinued after 2007, its final model year, to make way for the vastly superior Enclave. At this point there was one well-equipped model, the CXL. Standard equipment included alloy wheels, an auto load-leveling suspension, dual-zone climate control, a CD player, power front seats, leather upholstery, antilock brakes, traction control and stability control. Major options included a navigation system and a rear-seat entertainment system.

If you're shopping for a used Buick Rainier, we'd advise confining your search to the '06 and '07 model years to ensure you get a Rainier with stability control, a feature we consider especially important given this SUV's less-than-ideal handling dynamics.

User Reviews:

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  Buick Rainier 8 cyc. - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By Golfer - November 1 - 2:00 am

  I just bought the 8 cylinder Rainier with satellite radio, navigation system, and sun roof. The 5.7 engine has plenty of pick up, more than most people will need. The handling and quiet ride is better than any suv I have driven. My other choice was the Cadillac SRX. It is less money, quieter, and I could not even get 2 sets of golf clubs in the SRX. There is no comparison in value and ride. Buy the Rainier.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By rbranscum - October 18 - 4:04 pm

  Extremely comfortable. I am in sales and spend a lot of time in it. It is very quiet and the heated seats and moonroof are great. Also the Bose sound system is a wonderful plus. I have the awd model and have had problems with it. It wants to engage sometimes when you are backing up. The dealership has not been able to stop it from doing it. Otherwise, great vehicle

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  Long Rides Enjoyable - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By James Jenkins - September 22 - 2:26 am

  I travel a lot. I have found the Rainier a pleasure to drive for hours at a time. My partner also shares in the driving and I sleep quite comfortably in the reclining passenger seat, although I would prefer the seats to have a little more of a bucket-seat form to provide a more settled feel into the seat. Overall, this ride feels and handles more like my older Buick Park Avenue than an SUV. I luv it, just what I was looking for!

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  My Buick - 2005 Buick Rainier
  By Nanny - September 19 - 12:58 pm

  This is the first car I have purchased. I previously owned a Park Avenue and my husband owned a GMC Pick Up. I loved both and didnt need both so the salesman suggested I purchase an SUV. I have made a couple of trips to Atlanta and love the power, V6, the ride, It reminds me of my car and gives me the height of the truck. There is plenty of room for me to travel as I want. My sister and I will make a trip to Norfolk, Va in October and she has a small scooter which will fit in the back real well. I couldnt be happier with my decision. The only way, would be if it were paid for.

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  Excellent SUV - 2005 Buick Rainier
  By Jay - August 14 - 2:15 am

  We have owned the vehicle since June 05 after owning a 1990 Toyota 4 Runner. The Rainier is such a wonderful ride and very quiet. It is easy to get in and out of and with all of the standard options included, it was a no brainer. On the highway, set your cruise or before you know it, you will be over 80 mph. Mileage is 20 highway and 15 city. Leg room is plenty, both front and back seats. The Bose audio system is outstanding. The front drink holders need to be redesigned as to location, but overall, we love this vehicle.

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  Buick Rainier - rock solid! - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By nrund - August 8 - 2:00 am

  After researching all the luxury midsized SUVs I narrowed the list to; Lexus RX330, Toyota Highlander and 4Runner Limiteds, Infiniti FX35 and Buick Rainier. I test drove all five again. The FX35 felt like a fancy station wagon. The 4Runner was a disappointment as it rattled and lacked the quality Toyota is known for. The Highlander reminded me of the RX300 I was replacing, the dull exterior and price didn’t warrant serious consideration. Only the RX330 and Rainier remained. Both are comfortable, luxuriously appointed and well constructed. Rainer’s rock solid construction, luxury amenities and GM’s financing make the Rainier a true value.

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  Getting acquainted - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By palex - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Previously had a van so there is an adjustment going on. The ride is excellent as well is the handling. Had running boards installed but they still do not give much of a platform to enter or exit vehicle on. The rear door is very restrictive for getting in or out. Wind noise is more then I expecdted at highway speeds. Fuel economy is only about 13.8 in town. Have not been on the road yet. Rear seart belts are difficult to connect because of a very short anchor strap. Rear seat heater is o.k. at low speeds but makes too much noise if it is turn up. Brakes feel somewhat spondgy right now..will have to have the dealer chect them.

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  Exciting Fun SUV - 2005 Buick Rainier
  By Gary - August 2 - 1:46 am

  Purchased my new 2005 Rainier in July, and have 600 miles on it. It came with most every option available. GM Employee discount and rebates helped. Having a 97 Ford Explorer for 8 years, I was tired of the rough truck ride. I test drove the new Explorer (better) and a couple others. After reading consumer reviews the Buick sold me for what you got for the price. Wanted a bit more luxury & smoother ride. Its a fun SUV to drive, very quiet, very comfortable, very smooth ride, nice handling, responsive, V6 has plenty of power. Bose sound system is worth the money. Major complaint in all reviews, the front cup holders, I totally agree, they are too small & worthless! More safety features would be nice

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  Rainier - 2006 Buick Rainier
  By John T Valentine - August 1 - 12:27 am

  A gook looking SUV with all the options. Nice drive with power. Very quiet and a smooth ride. The fuel economy is poor, city 16 highway at 20. Headroom for a big guy like myself is not as much as I would like, but would be fine for anyone under 6 foot 1. Nice engine.

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  My wifes Rainier - 2005 Buick Rainier
  By i loar - July 10 - 8:55 pm

  This one is thirsty, getting only 17 mpg city and 18.5 highway. it has too much body roll. The engine seems to be working too hard at interstate speed. Its missing some features of a LeSabre and is not enough vehicle for the money. I really expected more from a Buick. Its not as quiet as advertised.