Overview & Reviews

At its debut for the 2002 model year, the Buick Rendezvous midsize crossover SUV was touted as a cross between a luxury sedan, an SUV and a minivan. But in reality, the Rendezvous didn't offer the level of interior design and driving excitement that luxury car buyers expected. And although Buick's crossover could seat up to seven and had the requisite fold-flat third-row seat, it was too small to appeal to minivan buyers, and it didn't have much of a styling advantage over them anyway.

An optional all-wheel-drive system made the Rendezvous a less costly alternative to true SUVs for buyers needing a snow vehicle, but otherwise this Buick wasn't particularly rugged. Over the years, the Rendezvous fell behind the rest of the crossover SUV crowd, which exploded into a very competitive market dominated by the leading import brands.

Rather than update the Rendezvous, Buick decided to halt production midway through the 2007 model year. For used car consumers who can accept the Rendezvous' faults, it could still prove to be an affordable, practical choice for a family vehicle. But we think the vast majority of shoppers would be better served by other, more refined crossovers, including Buick's own Enclave.

Most Recent Buick Rendezvous
Sold from 2002 through the first half of 2007, the Buick Rendezvous was typically offered in two basic trim levels, CX and CXL. There was also a high-line Rendezvous Ultra model in 2004 and '05. Since Buick considered the Rendezvous a premium crossover, even the base CX trim came with a decent list of standard features, including keyless entry, power accessories, air-conditioning and a CD player. The Rendezvous CX came with a five-passenger seating arrangement.

You could pick up a third-row seat on the CXL as a standard or optional feature, depending on the model year. This was also your ticket to leather upholstery, power front seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, wood-tone cabin trim and alloy wheels. In addition to a more powerful engine, the Ultra model came with second-row captain's chairs (dropping seating capacity to six), satellite radio and a head-up display. These items were moved to the CXL's options list when the Ultra was discontinued.

But Buick stopped short of its competitors when it came to high-end amenities. Key safety features like ABS and front-seat side airbags were moved to the options list after the '02 model year, and items like stability control and side curtain airbags were never available. Buick did at least offer a DVD-based navigation system (starting in 2004) and a rear DVD entertainment system (starting in 2003) as options.

Although the Rendezvous' interior design and materials were better than most General Motors fare of the time, it wasn't quite up to import-brand standards. It was, however, one of the roomier crossover SUVs on the market, with plenty of passenger room in the front and back. It wasn't quite a minivan substitute, though, as the third row was best left to the kids. Cargo room was generous, too (with a maximum capacity of 109 cubic feet), though Buick's packaging of the third-row seat made for an uneven load floor.

Three different engines were offered on the Buick Rendezvous, and all were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. For 2002 and '03, the only choice was a 3.4-liter V6 with 185 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque. Acceleration was sluggish, but fuel economy was above average for this class. In 2004 and '05, you could get either this engine or, on the Ultra model, a more sophisticated 3.6-liter DOHC V6 good for 245 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque. For 2006, Buick replaced the old 3.4-liter with a more vigorous 3.5-liter V6 rated at 201 hp and 216 lb-ft of torque. It still wasn't a very refined engine for this class, but acceleration was improved. The 3.6-liter V6 remained optional for '06, but was discontinued at the end of the model year.

All-wheel drive (AWD) was standard on all 2002 Rendezvous models, but lower-cost front-wheel-drive versions were added the following year. Oddly, AWD was discontinued altogether for 2007, making the Buick Rendezvous the only crossover SUV not to offer any kind of all-weather capability.

In road tests we found the Rendezvous similar to most other Buicks in its driving characteristics, which is to say it focused on comfort at the expense of road feel. The vehicle's handling was sloppy, with considerable body roll around most corners. Neither the 3.4-liter nor the 3.5-liter engine was particularly competitive when it came to response or refinement, and the four-speed automatic's wide gear ratios didn't take full advantage of the power reserves. Although Rendezvous models equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 still had this old-tech transmission, they felt much stronger during passing and merging maneuvers. The 3.6-liter's power delivery was smoother and quieter as well.

Consumer reviews of the Buick Rendezvous have generally been favorable, as owners are pleased with its combination of interior space, ride comfort, fuel economy and overall value. Resale value has never been a strong point for the Rendezvous, so if you're in need of an affordable family vehicle, it might be worth a look on the used car market. We'd advise you to zero in on 2004-'06 models equipped with the 3.6-liter V6.

User Reviews:

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  Money pit - 2003 Buick Rendezvous
  By stephanie - April 9 - 8:12 pm

  We purchased this used at 38,000 miles from someone smart enough to dump it before it started falling apart. Replaced front wheel bearings at 42,000 and 45,000 miles. The head gasket was replaced last month at 83,000 miles after dealer misdiagnosed the problem twice. The load leveler would not stop running (at 75,000 miles) so we pulled the fuse and replaced it to stop the noise. Dealer advised that unless we fix it, the rear air-filled shocks will fail. We have already spent too much replacing things too soon. Recently replaced rear wheel bearings (great design those sealed bearings, not!). It is currently at the dealer again for other problems. So sorry we bought this. No more GMs.

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  great car - 2003 Buick Rendezvous
  By MattRivera - April 9 - 10:00 am

  I think that this car is amazing. with its luxurious intereior and third row seating make this feel like a real luxury suv. i believe that this suv is among the best in its class

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  Great Ride - 2003 Buick Rendezvous
  By cjohan - April 8 - 2:00 am

  My rdvous is awsome. the car rides super smooth and perfect for my uses - daily driver to work and carting the family around on the weekends occassionally. Great stereo system i have the 6 disc upgrade system and if I thoght it would help top drop $$ on a better stereo, but it does not need it. My biggest problem with the car is the wheels are a bit small for it...it could use 17/265. The soft suspension is great for driving around, but is a bit squishy in the corners. It is a great looking car and very comfortable inside.

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  Happy Change - 2005 Buick Rendezvous
  By Tracy G - April 3 - 11:55 am

  This was my second car! I drove a 2000 Ford Focus that got great mileage and never had any problems until one day it just died at 165,000 miles. My husband and I wanted a car that would last and be great for when we have kids. I outright refused to get a minivan. This car was perfect. I drive 60 miles a day on the highway and have no problems. The gas mileage is pretty good for an "suv." (I get 28/mpg) I run a small catering company and the cargo space is great. I love the deep center console that locks. And the several other compartments, as well as the multiple plug in areas for phones etc. There is also plenty of room if my friends and I decide to car pool. Excellent value for the price.

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  Virtually flawless as the miles pile-on - 2003 Buick Rendezvous
  By Dave - April 2 - 12:06 pm

  Purchased 2WD-CXL - Mar 2003. I average about 11000 miles per year. 5 yrs later, no mech problems tires & brakes in excellent shape. All fluids (ABS,p/s, coolant, oil, trans) were changed 3 wks ago. My family & I enjoyed 10 days through the Desert Southwest including TX, NM, & AZ. The highlights were The Grand Canyon & Tombstone. Smooth, comfortable, trouble free, 22-25 miles/gal - 75 mph avg car was fully loaded! Maintain, rotate tires, wash & wax, change all fluids as scheduled, and you, too, can enjoy a terrific SUV. Summertime, I tow the jetski to and from many lakes. I almost traded for an Enclave. My SUV is paid-for & still looks brand new. Wife talked me out of it. Thanks!

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  It does the job - so far - 2005 Buick Rendezvous
  By bri - April 1 - 9:31 pm

  We bought ours from private seller used. Basic model with one or two upgrades for 12,000 with only 20500 miles on it. Would not have paid the advertised 15000 from a dealership for similar Rendezvous. Rides like a truck and uses the gas. I have only had this suv for a little more than a month with no major complaints. If any major complaints come along I will do another review

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  Best Luxury SUV/Minivan - 2004 Buick Rendezvous
  By New Driver - March 28 - 7:36 pm

  This is the best SUV I have ever owned. The traction control works like a pro. The ultrasonic parking aid is help, because I like to back up in my driveway, and there is a gate and it lets me know when I am close enough. The third row seat is a nice addtion as well. The front seats are first class. The rear seats a first class as well they recline, and and you can push them forward and back.

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  Rendezvous scores! - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
  By Josef - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Rdv is pretty cheap for its class.It can beat a mercedez.The name mercedez is only famous not the cars.I think rdv is top of its class.

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  2 years and loving it - 2005 Buick Rendezvous
  By Sunni - March 21 - 12:07 am

  I have had this Ultra for 2 years and have been very satisfied with its comfort and quietness as well as the total ease of driving. It is very smooth to handle and of course it rides like a Buick. With the larger V6 engine it has plenty of get up and go and the interior was well designed with plenty of cubby spaces and cup holders. The heads up display keeps your eyes on the road and the radio controls on the steering wheel keep your hands on the wheel. If you need a good vehicle to keep your family safe and comfortable and you are sick of mini-vans this is your ride.

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  Rendezvous NOT! - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
  By fear - March 20 - 4:58 pm

  Bought the car as GM Certified, NOT. Serious mechanical problems from the get go. Years later, still having difficulties - car has turned off on the highway fuel gauge changes constantly turn on car and drive but then turn it off and it does NOT restart dangerous, dangerous vehicle.. Now we are stuck with it, who would purchase it from us? GM is NEVER, EVER helpful... No wonder they are losing billions. Should the company ever go bankrupt, just have them survey the car owners.