Used 2007 Buick Rendezvous

The Rendezvous is Buick’s crossover SUV, but in truth it’s more minivan than rugged off-road vehicle. Although the Rendezvous’ unusual exterior design is intended to conceal its minivan origins, it’s hard not to notice the low step-in height and tall roof. These same exterior dimensions, however, make for a truly spacious interior, including a usable third-row seat capable of comfortably accommodating two adults. The Rendezvous line has been paired down to just two trim levels this year, prompting the loss of the all-wheel-drive model and the larger 3.6-liter V6 engine. Still, the front-wheel-drive layout performs well in snow and the Rendezvous’ long list of appealing features and quasi-SUV image make a good choice for parents seeking to avoid the stigma associated with driving a minivan.

The Rendezvous gets a big boost in power with the addition of a 3.5-liter V6. This new engine sees improvements in low-end torque and fuel economy over the old 3.4-liter V6.
On the road, the Rendezvous demonstrates brisk acceleration with good pulling power for passing and merging. Even with the added horsepower, the Rendezvous manages a very respectable 26 miles per gallon in highway driving. The Rendezvous’ steering feel is firm, though the suspension is a bit soft, especially when pressed hard into a curve – although few of its owners are likely to do that. Brake feel is excellent and the front-wheel drive displays a sure-footedness in snow that no rear-wheel-drive SUV can match.

Available leather seating with suede inserts cradles occupants in complete comfort. Seating is generous, with room for up to seven people. Unlike many SUVs, the Rendezvous’ third-row seat can actually fit two adults, though there is little room left for cargo when in place. A brilliant center console design features compartments to store everything from loose change to a small laptop. A unique option in this class is the Head-Up Display, which projects speed, audio settings, fuel gauge and engine temperature onto the windshield’s lower corner.

The Rendezvous has a tall profile, making for good visibility from the driver’s seat. Its short nose and boxy rear are somewhat disguised by Buick’s styling treatment that includes wrap-over headlamps and a long, trailing line that sweeps down the C-pillar on past the belt-line to form the edge of the tail lamps. The large rear flip-up hatch makes it easy to load large items and a number of roof-rack options (including a hard cargo carrier) allow one to carry everything from bikes to kayaks.

Ultrasonic Rear Park Assist
The standard Ultrasonic Rear Park Assist (CXL) helps you avoid costly bumper dings – or worse.

Center Console
The ingenious center console offers a place for just about every item you’ll need for work or play.

The Rendezvous features remote keyless entry, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), air conditioning, power windows, power locks, rear defroster, AM/FM stereo with CD, dual power mirrors, leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel and cloth bucket seats. The CXL adds dual-zone automatic air conditioning, power driver’s seat, traction control, rear audio controls, front side-impact airbags, leather seating, 17-inch aluminum wheels, garage door opener and a wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel with touch controls.

Options include a touch-screen navigation display built into the audio head unit, power moonroof, XM Satellite Radio, rear-seat DVD entertainment center and a trailer package (includes automatic leveling, auxiliary air compressor outlet, heavy-duty engine cooling and trailer wiring harness).

The Rendezvous’ 3.5-liter V6 may not have the most horsepower in its class, but its ample low-end torque is more than adequate for passing and quick off-the-line acceleration. The 3.5-liter engine can be a bit loud at full throttle, but not annoyingly so. Fuel economy figures in the high twenties should come as welcome relief to families struggling with large fuel bills.

3.5-liter V6
196 horsepower @ 5600 rpm
215 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/26