2003 Buick Rendezvous in Southern Pines, NC - $4,885

Labeled as a luxury crossover vehicle that combines capability, security, and comfort, the Rendezvous brings together the best features of a sport utility, premium sedan and a minivan in a way customers will appreciate.

Buick increases the pressure on its competitors with a host of changes and upgrades for 2006. Exterior changes include a monochromatic exterior appearance and a revised front grille design with the new, large Buick tri-shield emblem. Safety upgrades and improvements standard for 2006 include electronic rear park assist, theft-deterrence system and OnStar safety and security system.

Available in CX, CX Plus, CXL and CXL Plus trim levels, engine choices were upgraded this model year as well. Replacing last year's 3400 V6 is a more refined 3500 3.5L V6. The top-of-the-line model is outfitted with a 3.6L V6 with variable valve timing. Torque for both engines is communicated to the asphalt through a Hydra-Matic 4T65-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. The nameplate's Versatrak "on demand" all-wheel drive system is available across the entire model line.

On the road, the Rendezvous equipped with the base V6 is pleasantly responsive and nimble. For those engaged in the demands of the daily dispatch, the Rendezvous can offer welcome assistance in the transport of people and cargo.

The Rendezvous receives the benefits of Buick's QuietTuning engineering initiative, implemented for all Buick models in 2006. QuietTuning is designed to reduce or tune out unwanted noise and harshness throughout the vehicle.

The Buick's stout underpinnings start with a welded-steel unibody safety cage with a rubber-isolated front powertrain cradle along with a rubber-isolated aluminum cross member for the rear drive module.

Bolted to the chassis is an independent four-wheel suspension system with front struts, coil springs and anti-roll bar. Rear suspension hardware consists of a short and long control arms with one toe-control link per side, coil springs and anti-roll bar.

The passenger cabin is a cavernous place. The driver enjoys a commanding view of the road and the low step-in for driver and front passenger makes access easy. Seating is comfortable in all positions. Access to the optional third seat is easy (std CXL), thanks to a 50/50 split flip and fold forward seating arrangement for the second row seats. The floor mounted storage system adds to the plenty of storage space located throughout the vehicle. Two power points are standard in the center console for various portable electrical devices.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 112.2; overall length: 186.5; width: 73.6; height: 69.1 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.5L V6 -- 195 hp at 5,600 rpm and 215 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm; 3.6L V6 -- 242 hp at 6,000 rpm and 232 lbs-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm.

Transmission: electronically controlled four-speed automatic with overdrive and torque converter clutch.

EPA fuel economy: 3.5L V6 -â€" 19 city/26 hwy., (FWD); 18 city/23 hwy., (AWD); 3.6L V6 -â€" 18 city/27 hwy., (FWD); 18 city/25 hwy., (AWD).

Cargo capacity: 108.9 cu. ft.

Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, OnStar communications system, PASS-key III passive theft-deterrent system, remote keyless entry, retained accessory power, engine immobilizer, fog lamps, daytime running lamps, automatic headlamp control and ultrasonic rear parking assist. CX Plus adds programmable power door locks. CXL adds universal home remote, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, tire inflation monitor and traction control.

Optional safety feature include EyeCue head-up windshield display.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 Buick Rendezvous crossover starts from $24,280 for the CX 2WD model up to $27,780 for the CXL AWD. Destination charges add $710.

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