2005 Buick Rendezvous New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Buick Rendezvous?
For 2005, the Buick Rendezvous offers the Ultra package on front-wheel drive models, while the high-output 3.6-liter V6 engine is now available with the CXL front-wheel drive configuration. New wheel-and-tire combinations jazz up the exterior appearance, while the stereo system and other functions are controlled through a touchscreen navigation system to aid ease-of-use.

Advantages of the 2005 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 2005 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 standard 3.4-liter V6
• No real off-roading capability

Editor's Advice:
The 2005 Buick Rendezvous is little more than a minivan masquerading as an SUV, an average effort that must compete with numerous other crossover family haulers, most of which outclass it.