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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  Very disappointed - 2003 Buick Rendezvous
  By CX 4DR SUV - July 30 - 11:29 pm

  My husband and I bought this vehicle in January 07, by July 07, weve already had some serious problems. First was the Security light kept coming on, was told it was a battery problem but to have the diagnostics on the vehicle checked out was costly just to have to change the battery. Next was the window, went down wouldnt go back up cost me$430 to get the regulator replaced. Ive read a lot on the Rendezvous and the windows are a hugh problem and very costly. Also, not nearly enough room in the drivers seat and the seatbelts are not roomy enough and the radio keeps changing stations. We have been very disappointed so far and hope this SUV doesnt end up costing us a fortune.

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  3-1/2 years and still enjoying the ride! - 2003 Buick Rendezvous
  By JJ - July 28 - 10:46 pm

  Reliable, decent fuel economy, 3rd row seat helps when hauling kids, AWD for the winter and a comfortable ride. This has been a great addition to the family.

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  small breaks big bucks - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
  By cat - July 25 - 11:35 am

  Just after the extended warranty was up the power window quit working. A small plastic piece broke costing $190. Now the other front window has made a loud pop and I am afraid to use it for fear it will not roll up soon. The ac condensor has a pinhole rubbed in it by the frame the quote is $800. If summer would have come a month sooner the vehicle would have still been under warranty. The mechanic that quoted the ac problem said that this is a common problem that he sees a lot.

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  Rendevous with this one /Nice SUV - 2004 Buick Rendezvous
  By Tom Russell - July 10 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is underated, except HP, I have had this vehicle since July 2002, it has 15,700 miles and I really love it It handles well, has a loads of storage space. Fit and finish is very good, however it is produced in Mexico (so much for foreign trade) The seats are very comfortable, and up front visiability is excellent. If you purchase one make sure you check the options on the sticker, and that they are actually on the vehicle. Mine was missing footrests, and cabin air filters, which are located in the glove box. Take your time and look it over very carefdully you might want to Rendevous with this one !!

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  Almost perfect - 2007 Buick Rendezvous
  By Jim in Vegas - July 6 - 5:34 pm

  We traded our trusty 2002 Impala on the Buick to get more room and pull our small boat trailer. So far so good. Stereo system is awful. Will have to replace it. Will not even stay on local stations. It did stall one time in traffic with no explanation. Were praying this does not happen again. But, for the money (we purchased an off-lease car) it still seems a bargain. Mileage averaging 20mpg overall, not bad for a vehicle of this size and weight.

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  No major problems until warranty expired - 2002 Buick Rendezvous
  By Marisa - July 4 - 1:54 pm

  Our family purchased this vehicle with 15,000 miles left on the warranty. Within a few thousand miles after warranty expiration, right and left wheel bearings and air condintioning needed repair. Approximately every 3 months since then (over the past 4 years), a major malfunction has occurred, which usually consists of the car not starting for a variety of reasons, including major fuel line corrosion. I dont understand how this vehicle has been reviewed so highly. Most people Ive talked to with Rendezvous have had similar experiences. Our mechanic feels so bad for us that he frequently undercharges for his services.

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  Low speed acceleration - 2007 Buick Rendezvous
  By Peformance - July 2 - 7:11 pm

  Just bought the vehicle and have noticed that at low speed with the foot off the accelerator and then trying to accelerate again the vehicle does not engage immediately. I think the torque converter or accelerator (electronically controlled) is a problem. Love the styling, should have the trip computer (fuel economy reading, oil change time, etc,) as standard like on my Chevy 05 Malibu. Disappointed with the storage compartments in the rear and the fact the second row seats do not slide per the brochure. Milage about 22 around town is excellent, ride is fantastic,

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  Definitely go in for a test drive - 2004 Buick Rendezvous
  By omowasu - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I went in to drive the Rendez. as it accomplishes everything the Highlander does for much less $$$ (and toyotas are a dime a dozen around here). The Buick does not disappoint. Handling is superb, and the steering is tight and right on track. Actually holds 7 passengers in relative comfort, and looks good doing it. Rear hatch is very easy to lift and close.

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  Great vehicle - 2007 Buick Rendezvous
  By pjkPA - June 26 - 6:40 pm

  We just bought our 3rd Rendezvous. Just couldnt find a better vehicle for 20K. Nothing comes close to the amount of car you get for the money. OnStar. Stainless exhaust. Galvanized metal, and seats that come out which makes more cargo room to haul things than any other SUV. I get 27 mpg on the highway and have gotten 28. Hard to find one now though. They are selling fast. My 2002 will need replaced just in time for me to buy a Chevy Volt unless Buick comes out with something to compete with it.

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  Why did I buy this car? - 2005 Buick Rendezvous
  By Judi - June 25 - 10:28 pm

  This is not a good SUV for a short person. The huge side mirrors block view from all angles. The overhead tailgate is unbelievably difficult to close. Tailgate interior strap broke last week, and tonight, the overhead interior glasses case clasp broke and is now hanging interfering with the rear view mirror. The third row seats are extremely difficult to return to a sitting position. Overall, very poor interior design.