2005 BUICK RAINIER NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2005 Buick Rainier?
The 2005 Buick Rainier boasts a slight power boost for its V8 engine. It now makes 300 horsepower and 358 lb.-ft. of torque, up from 290 and 325, respectively. A new luxury package includes chrome side steps and heated front seats, while an in-dash six-disc CD changer finds its way into the Sun, Sound and Entertainment package. Also newly available is a stereo option with MP3 player. Genuine wood graces the steering wheel and wood shifter, and some additional chrome brightens up the interior. New color choices make their debut, and the digital note recorder is discontinued.

Advantages of the 2005 Buick Rainier:

• Optional V8 power
• On-demand all-wheel-drive system
• Smooth ride
• Impressive roster of useful standard and optional equipment

Objections to the 2005 Buick Rainier:

• Live rear axle suspension
• Substandard interior materials
• Twitchy handling at the limit
• Thirsty engines

Editor's Advice:
Last year, with the impending death of Oldsmobile, Buick inherited the Bravada, now dubbed Rainier. Styling tweaks identify the Rainier as a Buick, and it's the only regular-length, midsize GM SUV to get optional V8 power (if you don't count the Saab 9-7X), but otherwise this is the same rig as the Chevrolet TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy. In addition to the 300-horse, 5.3-liter V8, the five-passenger Buick Rainier is available with on-demand all-wheel-drive and a rear seat DVD entertainment system. If strong power and a smooth ride are your primary considerations, the 2005 Buick Rainier deserves a look. But keep in mind that there are several crossover SUVs on the market that handle much better on pavement, are constructed of higher quality materials and possess more brand cachet than does this Buick.