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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Happy with Rainier - 2004 Buick Rainier
By Mary Mix Up - May 25 - 2:00 amThis was a step smaller from my real love the Tahoe. Reason for change was the Toyota was 11 years old and by keeping the 7 year old Tahoe in excellent condition and new tires, I had the best of both. For the kind of everyday errands and general getting about the Rainier gave me the fun of a new vehicle with the better mileage with increased gas prices.
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My Opinion of Rainier - 2004 Buick Rainier
By judy - May 24 - 2:00 amWe love the comfort and the quiet interior. The tow ability is good and excelleration is quite acceptable.
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Love My Buick Rainier - 2004 Buick Rainier
By Kathy S. - May 20 - 2:00 amThis is my first brand new vehicle in my life and I do not regret anything about purchasing it. I know gas is expensive but riding in this vehicle I try not to think about it. I love the way the vehilce handles and its quietness and the feeling of a well built automobile. Recently I drove a Trailblazer, which I test drove before purchasing my Rainier boy am I glad I made the right choice. There is no comparison.
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My - 2004 Buick Rainier
By Tom Weiss - May 15 - 2:00 amThis was an unexpected replacement vehicle for my 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Anniversary Edition auto which was totalled in a car accident. I couldnt be happier with the Buick Rainer. Quality, Fit, Finish is excellent and I have the 6cyl which is getting @18 mpg which isnt great, but not as bad as previous Explorers and Mountaineers that I have owned. I have the navigational system which is alot of fun and is much more reliable than a friends Range Rover of the same year. The ride is incredible smooth and quiet and completely untruck like.This is just a very comfortable and luxurious vehicle which gets alot of compliment and is a headturner.
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2004 Rainier - 2004 Buick Rainier
By Dr Tim - May 15 - 2:00 amThe graceful look. The magnificent vortec power, and the fact that it is not my fathers Buick
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Beverlys Buick - 2004 Buick Rainier
By Beverly Stephens - May 15 - 2:00 amI test drove my new Ranier 1/2 mile and knew I had to have it. It is the most comfortable vehicle I have ever owned.
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Rainier Excellence - 2004 Buick Rainier
By Mr Diggs - May 15 - 2:00 amThe quality of the Rainier shows in many ways. The smooth ride, fun to drive and high engine performance are there. The ability to look out from any angle is amazing. The amount of room to transport people or put the seats down and haul items is very nice feature. The ability for each individual to have their own temperature control is a very smart idea. I still am in awe when I drive the Rainier for the quality and the price! Great job Buick!!!11
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BUICK RANIER - 2004 Buick Rainier
By MENDELSON - May 8 - 2:00 amEXCELLENT ALL WAYS RIDE IS COMFPRTABLE, AIR PUMP IS EXCELLENT AND OVER ALL RIDE IS FANTASTIC
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Great Car - 2004 Buick Rainier
By printman2004 - May 8 - 2:00 amThe ride is real smooth but it has the power to cruise into openings on the highways or freeways. When youre driving down the road the Rainier just feels solid and well-built. The only things I dont like are the cupholders.
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Great - 2004 Buick Rainier
By Dans Mom - May 4 - 2:00 amReally enjoy driving this SUV. Sized down from a Denali to a Rainier and have to say I am not dissapointed. Handles great and much easier to maneuver and park. Very Quiet ride.
