2006 Buick Rainier Trims and Specs

Based on the Envoy platform, but with only two rows of seating, the 2006 Buick Rainier CXL SUV offers more interior passenger space and legroom. The rear seats do fold 60/40, to expand cargo capacity to 80 cubic feet. The rear-wheel drive CXL features a standard 4.2-liter, 291-hp V6 engine, with an option to upgrade to the meatier 302-hp, 5.3-liter V8. The only transmission is a 4-speed automatic. ABS brakes are standard, as are dual front-side airbags, a self-leveling suspension, 17-inch all-season tires, and fog lights. In 2006, the Rainier CXL also gets StabiliTrak.

Inside, the SUV is about luxury and comfort. Power front seats (with driver memory settings), leather upholstery, OnStar, dual-zone climate control, wood trim, cruise and audio controls on the leather-wrapped steering wheel, universal remote, heated mirrors, front and rear wipers, and rear audio jacks are standard. The rear window opens separately from the power liftgate. Roof rails and door handles are brushed in chrome for 2006. Optional equipment adds heated seats, head airbags with new rollover protection, MP3 capability, a CD changer, sunroof, navigation system, satellite radio, and running boards. Strong power, and yet a smooth ride are highlights of the 2006 Rainer CXL. The long list of standard luxury features and overall comfort are also rated highly. Negatives include gas mileage.

The 2006 Buick Rainier CXL AWD is a roomy SUV with a focus on luxury and high-end driving, without sacrificing good hauling power and all-wheel drive performance in difficult road or weather situations. It comes standard with a 4.2-liter, 291-hp V6 engine, but also offers a 5.3-liter, 302-hp V8. Both come with a 4-speed auto tran. Sitting on 17-inch tires, the 2006 Rainier CXL AWD can tow up to 6500 pounds. Cargo space is up to 80 cubic feet with the rear seats down. Roof rails that are brushed in chrome (new for 2006) add more versatility.

The CXL AWD is the same as the rear-wheel drive version in terms of features. Power front seats, memory settings, leather upholstery, cruise and audio controls on the steering wheels, wood and leather trim, front and overhead consoles, dual-zone climate control, universal remote, OnStar, rear audio inputs, and front and rear wipers are standard. StabiliTrak is new this year, adding to the ABS brakes, self-leveling suspension, dual front-side airbags, fog lights, and daytime running lights. Options add on heated seats and mirrors, head airbags, rollover protection, sunroof, DVD player, navigation system, running boards, and a cargo cover. Praise goes to its quiet ride, roominess, and V8 power, though some drivers wish it had a 6-speed transmission. Rear seats don't fold flat, and some owners wanted a third row option.