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Buick released their 2002 Rendezvous crossover vehicle in order to attract a younger generation of enthusiasts as their sales in small and mid-sized sedans had been on a steady decline for over 10 years. With yearly releases from 2002 to 2007, many potential buyers saw this as one of the few crossovers that were able to fully encompass the benefits of a minivan, SUV, and luxury sedan. Here is a closer look at the specs and handling of this SUV and what drivers can expect once they get behind the wheel.
Specs
While upgrades were available on some models, throughout its 5 years of manufacturing the Buick Rendezvous came with a standard 3.4 to 3.6 liter V-6 cylinder engine in base models with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Most CX models did come with 2WD but later versions offered an AWD package to help compete with similar sport-inclined SUVs. From 2002 to 2007, each of the models ranged from 16 to 20 MPG on city streets with 20 to 24 MPG on the freeway. As a mid-size crossover SUV, the Rendezvous has a relatively wide 112 in. wheelbase and a lighter 4072 lb. curb weight.
Features and Upgrades
In the first year of its release, the Buick Rendezvous came with a number of standard features such as a keyless entry and all power accessories which helped it to compete with the luxury market. After the 2002 model, some of these features did transfer over to the base model with other features being added to the upgraded CXL model. The abundant interior storage and leg room did not quite give any Rendezvous models the feel of a family minivan, but they did provide all passengers with ample leg room, a removable third-row seat, and the ability to carry the proverbial 4’ x 8’ plywood that many SUVs tout as a key feature.
Handling and Comfortability
Much like many of the smaller Buicks that have been released throughout the years, the Buick Rendezvous tends to sacrifice aggressive road handling for a more luxurious and comfortable ride. While the AWD systems from the 2002 through the 2006 models did help with handling characteristics, the Rendezvous has more of a resemblance to a comfortable daily driver than a sporty vehicle. When fuel economy, interior space, and ride comfort are taken into consideration, almost all owners are going to enjoy the overall value of their Rendezvous.
Specs
While upgrades were available on some models, throughout its 5 years of manufacturing the Buick Rendezvous came with a standard 3.4 to 3.6 liter V-6 cylinder engine in base models with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Most CX models did come with 2WD but later versions offered an AWD package to help compete with similar sport-inclined SUVs. From 2002 to 2007, each of the models ranged from 16 to 20 MPG on city streets with 20 to 24 MPG on the freeway. As a mid-size crossover SUV, the Rendezvous has a relatively wide 112 in. wheelbase and a lighter 4072 lb. curb weight.
Features and Upgrades
In the first year of its release, the Buick Rendezvous came with a number of standard features such as a keyless entry and all power accessories which helped it to compete with the luxury market. After the 2002 model, some of these features did transfer over to the base model with other features being added to the upgraded CXL model. The abundant interior storage and leg room did not quite give any Rendezvous models the feel of a family minivan, but they did provide all passengers with ample leg room, a removable third-row seat, and the ability to carry the proverbial 4’ x 8’ plywood that many SUVs tout as a key feature.
Handling and Comfortability
Much like many of the smaller Buicks that have been released throughout the years, the Buick Rendezvous tends to sacrifice aggressive road handling for a more luxurious and comfortable ride. While the AWD systems from the 2002 through the 2006 models did help with handling characteristics, the Rendezvous has more of a resemblance to a comfortable daily driver than a sporty vehicle. When fuel economy, interior space, and ride comfort are taken into consideration, almost all owners are going to enjoy the overall value of their Rendezvous.
