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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  Buick Rendezvous - 2005 Buick Rendezvous
  By dihiggs - March 24 - 2:08 pm

  After buying vehicles year after year, I have finally settled on the Buick Rendezvous. With its comfort, easy handling, and good gas mileage, it is definitely the upcoming vehicle to watch out for. It is sporty and has the luxury of an SUV. This was a great choice for me.

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  Love It!! - 2003 Buick Rendezvous
  By kar1 - March 20 - 10:00 am

  The car is wonderful and fun to drive- get so many compliments.. love the room and the ride is terrific- just like a nice car. could not be happier!!! They are now showing up everywhere!!

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  Joy to drive! - 2004 Buick Rendezvous
  By Rendevous happy! - March 14 - 3:55 pm

  Have had this vehicle for six months and it is better than expected. My mileage has been between 27 and 28 mpg on trips. It is very quiet and comfortable. It feels nimble and responsive. Only one minor repair, low fuel warning not working required reprograming the computer. The sound system is very powerful. The large outside mirrors help for backing, otherwise visibility out the rear window is restricted due to high profile. The center console is the best I have ever used, many useful compartments. Front wheel drive gives better performance and mileage, and reduces repair bills.

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  2005 CX Rendezvous - 2005 Buick Rendezvous
  By Rich Mayer - March 13 - 2:43 pm

  The 2005 CX base model Rendezvous has been an outstanding experience for me !! Smooth, quiet ride. Better gas mileage than many smaller vehicles. Gorgeous exterior -- especially from the front. My favorite thing is the way the dashboard lights up at night. The light-silver dials turn to black. All numbers and pointers light up in a green/blue teal. And there is a slight angelic white glow emminating from behind the anchor spot of the needles.

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  Review of my Rendezvous - 2005 Buick Rendezvous
  By Carol Grider - March 11 - 9:55 pm

  My past two vehicles were a Ford Explorer, then a Ford Expedition. I loved both, but when the family got smaller I didnt need all the room of an Expedition, so we looked for a comparable vehicle as far as looks and comfort. We tried the Rendezvous and fell in love. I have had it almost a month now and love how it drives, handles and the smooth ride. We got all the bells and whistles and we cant say anything bad about it. I LOVE IT!! Thanks GM for a great product.

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  Great Automobile - 2005 Buick Rendezvous
  By Bob Corwin - February 22 - 4:22 pm

  This is my 2nd Rendezvous, the 1st was a 2002 CX. I was so pleased with my first Rendezvous and its dependability that I purchased the 2nd with most of the bells and whistles". So far I have not been disappointed. I find the styling, features and construction to be top-notch. As for the most often complaint as to its underpowered engine, I have found no trouble in passing any car when I wish and this autos hill climbing abililty on the highway is unsurpassed. Unless you have a lead foot and are looking for a race car I think youll find its power more than adequate and you will get decent gas milage as a bonus. Take one for a test drive and I dont think youll be disappointed.

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  My 3rd Rendezvous - 2005 Buick Rendezvous
  By Bill - February 17 - 8:43 pm

  This is my 3rd Rendezvous (2002, 2003, 2005) and obviously, I love this car. It is extremely comfortable on trips and very stylish. I put on a lot of miles and have traded each time because of GMs discount, rebates, GM credit card, and warranty. It does have some flaws, though. Wheel bearings will most certainly go (both "02 and "03) and the gasket around the drivers door was a problem (wind noise) on the "03. Power steering gets sluggish in sub-zero temps and transmission is touchy in heavy traffic. Many of the options Buick offers were standard on the "02 (Side air bags, ABS, monogrammed mats, cargo storage compartments on floor, etc...

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  Nice Ride - 2005 Buick Rendezvous
  By Dan Gannon - February 15 - 8:31 am

  This car has a great ride and looks much smaller then it is. It gives much space but could use some extra, especially in the back for storage.

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  Finally pulled the trigger - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
  By Rendezviewer - February 15 - 2:00 am

  After researching about everything comparable (Highlander, upcoming Honda Pilot, MDX, Trailblazer), we finally pulled the trigger on a Rendezvous. Most of my cars have been foreign cars and I was probably biased against GM, but the value on the RDV combined with the features and appearance made us purchasers. So far everything is perfect. The features combined with the convenience of a mini-van (seating for 6-7) with an SUV appearance were the key factors for us. Safety factors were also important.

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  Great Ride - 2004 Buick Rendezvous
  By Happy Owner - February 14 - 6:22 pm

  I bought this vehicle after much study, and after owning sedans for my entire car-life. I have been extremely pleased with it, and have driven it on two long and challenging trips, as well as around town. I like the room, comfort and handling. Lots of space for child and the many trips to the home improvement store. I would purchase it again in a minute, and have not regretted my purchase in the least.