2002 BUICK RENDEZVOUS CXL
General Motors describes the Buick Rendezvous as a three-in-one package: a sport-utility
vehicle with minivan versatility and luxury sedan equipment. Though seen as a variation on the
Pontiac Aztec, in size the Rendezvous is practically identical to the Chevrolet Venture in its
standard-wheelbase version.
The Rendezvous clearly shares a number of features with the Aztec, such as the engine and the
Versatrak All-Wheel Drive system. On the other hand, it distances itself from Pontiac with its
three-row seating, four-wheel disc brakes, distinctive instrument panel and its different doors,
among other things. The Rendezvous is available in three trim levels: CX Front-Wheel Drive,
CX Versatrak and CXL Versatrak.
A minivan
The Rendezvous is as easily accessed as most minivans in the first two rows of seats. Accessing
the rear bench is another story entirely since the passageway to get there is fairly narrow. While
we’re on the subject, let’s not forget that this seat is meant for smaller people and/or children—
and even then, only for short distances, as seating comfort is rudimentary at best.
Conversely, those occupying the front seats find them very comfortable, regardless of travelling
distance. The driving position is very good as well, but visibility leaves something to be desired
about ¾ of the way toward the back, as well as directly out the back due to the narrow rear
window.
The first bench proves reasonably comfortable and slides fore and aft, which also allows for a bit
of legroom for passengers in the last bench. There are folding footrests like the ones on airplanes
behind the front bucket seats. This bench is split 50/50 and affords good leg clearance when it is
slid fully back.
Cargo capacity is nonexistent when the rear bench is in place, though the space becomes
significant when the bench is folded down, especially because it then becomes a flat floor. If
more storage is required, simply remove one or both sections of the first bench. This is the area
where one sees hints at the versatility that is usually specific to minivans though less so that in
extended-wheelbase versions.
The vehicle’s overall finish needs improvement, both inside and out, as evidenced by creaking
noises and poorly aligned parts. Additionally, the soundproofing is lacking as concerns wind,
engine, exhaust, and especially the road noise—surprising from a Buick product.
If there is one area where the Rendezvous shines, it is in the many roomy storage spaces,
especially in front where there is a deep central console that features a second shelf beneath the
cup-holders—well thought out and very practical. As for other areas, let’s just say that while the
heating and ventilation are satisfactory for those occupying the front bucket seats and first bench,
those passengers in the rear will likely find the ride long with nary a puff of air blowing their
way. Many minivans have ceiling and floor vents to provide air to those passengers, but this
Buick does not. Further, the turn signal lever holds too many controls—as is usual with many
GM products—and the signal itself is barely audible. Elsewhere, the gear shift lever hides the
radio controls. Note that the windshield wipers do one too many cycles when using the washer
jets, and that the jets spray only after the first wiper cycle. While on the subject of windshield
wipers, the rear wiper only has an intermittent cycle. In a vehicle of this price, there should be a
continuous cycle in addition to the intermittent one.
From a safety standpoint, the Rendezvous has two front and two side airbags, powerful
headlights, large mirrors, high enough front head restraints, and four-wheel antilock disc brakes.
On the downside, three-quarter rear visibility is limited, the rear head restraints are too low for
taller people and none of the head restraints lock.
An SUV?
The venerable V6 3.4L engine provides 185 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque, which is
a little tight for moving a vehicle weighing 1,860 kg. The resulting performance is modest, but
what saves this engine is the generous torque, which, despite everything, allows the Rendezvous
to move with a certain ease and keep up with the traffic. When loaded, passing requires foresight
and plenty of time. As it has to work fairly hard, fuel consumption suffers significantly.
The four-speed automatic transmission works very smoothly at all times. Versatrak all-wheel
drive sends torque to the rear wheels when the front wheels spin. Our test vehicle’s rear allseason
tires were due for a change, which probably explains why the system was slow to move
the vehicle with any real conviction. In fact, the front wheels would spin for quite a while before
the vehicle began to move. Actually, this system works well at improving traction on a slippery
surface, but not well enough to go out and play with real 4X4s. Another factor that prevents it
from off-roading is the low ground clearance that results in the vehicle’s undercarriage scraping
anything higher than a roadside curb.
The four-wheel independent suspension provides a beautifully smooth ride on practically all
surfaces. Some bumps and cracks might evoke a firm reaction, but nothing more than that. In
curves the vehicle leans as it should, yet sticks to its true path.
Very well-weighted, the power steering proves quite stable, precise and quick. Its turning circle
is short, providing better vehicle manoeuvrability. The brakes are powerful and fade-resistant.
Upon examination of the vehicle at the CAA-Quebec Technical Inspection Center, we found
some omissions beneath the Rendezvous. As GM doesn’t believe in protecting the discs, there
are no backing plates protecting the brakes. Additionally, several joints were not sealed.
Conclusion
General Motors has tried in vain to dress up the Rendezvous as a three-in-one vehicle; it is still
simply a minivan with traditional hinged rear passenger doors rather than sliding ones. However,
those who purchase this vehicle will find themselves behind the wheel of a comfortable,
reasonably multi-purpose vehicle with respectable road-handling ability. All the same, it is
disappointing to find that the finish and soundproofing leave something to be desired for a Buick.
With the arrival of the Chevrolet Venture, the Oldsmobile Silhouette and the Pontiac Montana—
all featuring the Versatrak system—the Rendezvous will lose some of its privileged status as an
appealing choice for those who want a more exclusive vehicle.
FOR AGAINST
Comfortable seating for 5 Soundproofing
Smooth transmission Third-row access
Good ride Poor finish
Powerful headlights Modest engine power
Generous storage room ¾ rear visibility
Versatility Unprotected brake discs
2002 BUICK RENDEZVOUS
Engine: 12-valve, 3.4-litre V-6
Horsepower: 185 h.p. @ 5,200 rpm
Torque: 210 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Suspension: fully independent
Brakes: 4-wheel disc
Length: 473.4 cm
Width: 187.1 cm
Height: 182.7 cm
Wheelbase: 285.1 cm
Weight: 1,792 to 1,890 kg
Tires: P215/70R16
Towing capacity: 1,588 kg
Air bags: dual front and side
Fuel consumption with Versatrak:
- Transport Canada rating: city: 12.7 L/100 km (22 mpg); highway: 8.,7 L/100 km
(32 mpg)
- Test result: 14.8 L/100 (19 mpg)
Fuel tank capacity: 68 litres
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h: 10.3 seconds 60-100 km/h: 8.1 seconds
Competition: Chevrolet Venture, Dodge Caravan, Nissan Quest, Oldsmobile Silhouette,
Pontiac Aztek and Montana, Toyota Sienna
Maintenance (amount may vary from dealer to dealer):
Frequency; 3 months/5,000 km; total cost to 100,000 km: $1,263
Warranty:
- Full basic coverage: 3 years/60,000 km
- Powertrain: 3 years/60,000 km
- Surface corrosion: 3 years/60,000
- Perforation damage: 6 years/160,0000 km
- Emissions control system: 3 years/60,000 km (full coverage); 8 years/130,000 km
(catalytic converter, electronic control module)
Factory replacement parts:
Rear bumper: $1,183 Front brake disk: $291
Brake pads: $159 Muffler: $500 with tailpipe
Front fender: $417
Average insurance premium (Quebec City, replacement cost endorsement, claim-free
insurance record, female driver or male driver 30 to 40 years old): $1,110 to $1,420
Price according to trim line:
CX: $30,995
CX Versatrak: $34,995
CXL Versatrak: $40,995
Main options:
Option packages from $2000 to $4,300
Price as tested: $42,930
Freight and preparation: $850
Dealers: Québec: 173; Canada: 697
Ó CAA-Quebec, December 2001
source: http://www.caaquebec.com/DocumentLib...zvousCXL_0.pdf
General Motors describes the Buick Rendezvous as a three-in-one package: a sport-utility
vehicle with minivan versatility and luxury sedan equipment. Though seen as a variation on the
Pontiac Aztec, in size the Rendezvous is practically identical to the Chevrolet Venture in its
standard-wheelbase version.
The Rendezvous clearly shares a number of features with the Aztec, such as the engine and the
Versatrak All-Wheel Drive system. On the other hand, it distances itself from Pontiac with its
three-row seating, four-wheel disc brakes, distinctive instrument panel and its different doors,
among other things. The Rendezvous is available in three trim levels: CX Front-Wheel Drive,
CX Versatrak and CXL Versatrak.
A minivan
The Rendezvous is as easily accessed as most minivans in the first two rows of seats. Accessing
the rear bench is another story entirely since the passageway to get there is fairly narrow. While
we’re on the subject, let’s not forget that this seat is meant for smaller people and/or children—
and even then, only for short distances, as seating comfort is rudimentary at best.
Conversely, those occupying the front seats find them very comfortable, regardless of travelling
distance. The driving position is very good as well, but visibility leaves something to be desired
about ¾ of the way toward the back, as well as directly out the back due to the narrow rear
window.
The first bench proves reasonably comfortable and slides fore and aft, which also allows for a bit
of legroom for passengers in the last bench. There are folding footrests like the ones on airplanes
behind the front bucket seats. This bench is split 50/50 and affords good leg clearance when it is
slid fully back.
Cargo capacity is nonexistent when the rear bench is in place, though the space becomes
significant when the bench is folded down, especially because it then becomes a flat floor. If
more storage is required, simply remove one or both sections of the first bench. This is the area
where one sees hints at the versatility that is usually specific to minivans though less so that in
extended-wheelbase versions.
The vehicle’s overall finish needs improvement, both inside and out, as evidenced by creaking
noises and poorly aligned parts. Additionally, the soundproofing is lacking as concerns wind,
engine, exhaust, and especially the road noise—surprising from a Buick product.
If there is one area where the Rendezvous shines, it is in the many roomy storage spaces,
especially in front where there is a deep central console that features a second shelf beneath the
cup-holders—well thought out and very practical. As for other areas, let’s just say that while the
heating and ventilation are satisfactory for those occupying the front bucket seats and first bench,
those passengers in the rear will likely find the ride long with nary a puff of air blowing their
way. Many minivans have ceiling and floor vents to provide air to those passengers, but this
Buick does not. Further, the turn signal lever holds too many controls—as is usual with many
GM products—and the signal itself is barely audible. Elsewhere, the gear shift lever hides the
radio controls. Note that the windshield wipers do one too many cycles when using the washer
jets, and that the jets spray only after the first wiper cycle. While on the subject of windshield
wipers, the rear wiper only has an intermittent cycle. In a vehicle of this price, there should be a
continuous cycle in addition to the intermittent one.
From a safety standpoint, the Rendezvous has two front and two side airbags, powerful
headlights, large mirrors, high enough front head restraints, and four-wheel antilock disc brakes.
On the downside, three-quarter rear visibility is limited, the rear head restraints are too low for
taller people and none of the head restraints lock.
An SUV?
The venerable V6 3.4L engine provides 185 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque, which is
a little tight for moving a vehicle weighing 1,860 kg. The resulting performance is modest, but
what saves this engine is the generous torque, which, despite everything, allows the Rendezvous
to move with a certain ease and keep up with the traffic. When loaded, passing requires foresight
and plenty of time. As it has to work fairly hard, fuel consumption suffers significantly.
The four-speed automatic transmission works very smoothly at all times. Versatrak all-wheel
drive sends torque to the rear wheels when the front wheels spin. Our test vehicle’s rear allseason
tires were due for a change, which probably explains why the system was slow to move
the vehicle with any real conviction. In fact, the front wheels would spin for quite a while before
the vehicle began to move. Actually, this system works well at improving traction on a slippery
surface, but not well enough to go out and play with real 4X4s. Another factor that prevents it
from off-roading is the low ground clearance that results in the vehicle’s undercarriage scraping
anything higher than a roadside curb.
The four-wheel independent suspension provides a beautifully smooth ride on practically all
surfaces. Some bumps and cracks might evoke a firm reaction, but nothing more than that. In
curves the vehicle leans as it should, yet sticks to its true path.
Very well-weighted, the power steering proves quite stable, precise and quick. Its turning circle
is short, providing better vehicle manoeuvrability. The brakes are powerful and fade-resistant.
Upon examination of the vehicle at the CAA-Quebec Technical Inspection Center, we found
some omissions beneath the Rendezvous. As GM doesn’t believe in protecting the discs, there
are no backing plates protecting the brakes. Additionally, several joints were not sealed.
Conclusion
General Motors has tried in vain to dress up the Rendezvous as a three-in-one vehicle; it is still
simply a minivan with traditional hinged rear passenger doors rather than sliding ones. However,
those who purchase this vehicle will find themselves behind the wheel of a comfortable,
reasonably multi-purpose vehicle with respectable road-handling ability. All the same, it is
disappointing to find that the finish and soundproofing leave something to be desired for a Buick.
With the arrival of the Chevrolet Venture, the Oldsmobile Silhouette and the Pontiac Montana—
all featuring the Versatrak system—the Rendezvous will lose some of its privileged status as an
appealing choice for those who want a more exclusive vehicle.
FOR AGAINST
Comfortable seating for 5 Soundproofing
Smooth transmission Third-row access
Good ride Poor finish
Powerful headlights Modest engine power
Generous storage room ¾ rear visibility
Versatility Unprotected brake discs
2002 BUICK RENDEZVOUS
Engine: 12-valve, 3.4-litre V-6
Horsepower: 185 h.p. @ 5,200 rpm
Torque: 210 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Suspension: fully independent
Brakes: 4-wheel disc
Length: 473.4 cm
Width: 187.1 cm
Height: 182.7 cm
Wheelbase: 285.1 cm
Weight: 1,792 to 1,890 kg
Tires: P215/70R16
Towing capacity: 1,588 kg
Air bags: dual front and side
Fuel consumption with Versatrak:
- Transport Canada rating: city: 12.7 L/100 km (22 mpg); highway: 8.,7 L/100 km
(32 mpg)
- Test result: 14.8 L/100 (19 mpg)
Fuel tank capacity: 68 litres
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h: 10.3 seconds 60-100 km/h: 8.1 seconds
Competition: Chevrolet Venture, Dodge Caravan, Nissan Quest, Oldsmobile Silhouette,
Pontiac Aztek and Montana, Toyota Sienna
Maintenance (amount may vary from dealer to dealer):
Frequency; 3 months/5,000 km; total cost to 100,000 km: $1,263
Warranty:
- Full basic coverage: 3 years/60,000 km
- Powertrain: 3 years/60,000 km
- Surface corrosion: 3 years/60,000
- Perforation damage: 6 years/160,0000 km
- Emissions control system: 3 years/60,000 km (full coverage); 8 years/130,000 km
(catalytic converter, electronic control module)
Factory replacement parts:
Rear bumper: $1,183 Front brake disk: $291
Brake pads: $159 Muffler: $500 with tailpipe
Front fender: $417
Average insurance premium (Quebec City, replacement cost endorsement, claim-free
insurance record, female driver or male driver 30 to 40 years old): $1,110 to $1,420
Price according to trim line:
CX: $30,995
CX Versatrak: $34,995
CXL Versatrak: $40,995
Main options:
Option packages from $2000 to $4,300
Price as tested: $42,930
Freight and preparation: $850
Dealers: Québec: 173; Canada: 697
Ó CAA-Quebec, December 2001
source: http://www.caaquebec.com/DocumentLib...zvousCXL_0.pdf
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