2004 BUICK RENDEZVOUS NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Buick Rendezvous?
Mid-year, the Ultra model debuts with a powerful new aluminum 3.6-liter V6 engine that makes about 245 horsepower and features variable valve timing. The 2004 Buick Rendezvous Ultra's monochrome exterior paint visually sets it apart from the CX and CXL models, while inside new seats with leather and suede upholstery, wood dash accents and a wood steering wheel provide an upscale ambience. The Ultra's engine is optional on the CXL after the first quarter of 2004. Other changes include the addition of XM satellite radio to the options list for all models, and a new multimedia sound system with navigation for the CXL. Steering wheel controls for the radio, formerly standard on all Buick Rendezvous models, are now an option on the CX.

Advantages of the 2004 Buick Rendezvous:

• Roomy and multi-configurable interior
• Available all-wheel-drive
• Drives more like a car than a truck
• Comfortable front seats
• More stable during emergency maneuvers than your typical SUV

Objections to the 2004 Buick Rendezvous:

• Ungainly appearance
• Squeaking interior
• Small third-row seat
• Small cargo compartment with third-seat in use
• Vehicle platform is from the eight-year-old GM minivans
• Unrefined character of 3.4-liter V6
• No real off-roading capability

Editor's Advice:
The 2004 Buick Rendezvous is little more than a minivan masquerading as an SUV, much like the Mazda MPV All-Sport of the late 1990s. Though it comes with available all-wheel-drive, it has no more off-roading capability than a Subaru Impreza and handles as well as the average Mommymobile minivan. The benefit, however, is that it's a more stable vehicle than a typical SUV because it possesses a lower center of gravity. The inside looks stylish, but the parts feel and fit inexpensively. The 3.4-liter V6 engine has lots of torque for quick getaways from a stoplight, but is unrefined and runs out of breath at higher speeds. Comfort levels are high for all except third-row seat occupants. An average effort, the Rendezvous, though the new Ultra model that will debut after the first of the year shows promise.