The Rendezvous was introduced in 2002 and is Buick's first foray into the SUV market. Trying to be all things to all people, the Rendezvous is actually more of a crossover SUV in that it blends elements from Buick's luxury sedans with the storage capacity of a minivan and the sportiness of an SUV.
It is much more luxury and family-oriented, providing tons of storage compartments and power outlets, along with a low step-in height, and plenty of standard convenient features (OnStar, rear parking sensors), all at a lower cost than most of its competitors. Originally offered in front-wheel and all-wheel drive in base and luxury trims, the Buick Rendezvous featured two V6 engine options, rated at either 196-hp or 242-hp. Both the all-wheel drive and the stronger engine were dropped in 2007. The Rendezvous handled more like a car, which appealed to parents, but it didn't lack for passenger and storage options. Standard with two rows of seats for five, a third row bench was optional, upping the passenger room to seven. Seats could be removed or folded down to increase the cargo capacity. Outside, a sloping rear roof line added a bit of distinctive styling to an otherwise standard SUV shape.
The blend of SUV height and versatility with the luxury comfort and ride quality of a sturdy sedan proved to be a successful combination for Buick. The Rendezvous has done well and spawned the mid-size truck-based Rainier a year later. Though sales helped reinvigorate the company, Buick is planning to replace its total SUV lineup, including the Rendezvous, with the 2008 Enclave.