We ended up driving the Buick Rendezvous Ultra back-to-back with the Lincoln LS, and were surprised to find a comparison between the two.  These disparate vehicles share similar levels of luxury and refinement, and we found ourselves choosing the multi-tasking over the sporty LS more than once.  Sure, the Rendezvous is about as sexy as a hamster, and similarly proportioned to boot, but it’s so darn useful that the handsome LS wound up parked more often than not.

The Rendezvous was a significant departure for Buick when it debuted in 2002, and a relatively new concept for the industry as well.  It’s an upscale do-all, an alternative to bulky, uncool minivans or ponderous luxury SUVs.  The Rendezvous set out to woo traditional Buick buyers who were migrating into trucks, with seating for six, a multi-configurable interior, and Buick-grade luxury appointments.  For 2004, the Rendezvous upped the luxury ante with a freshened exterior and the high-luxury Ultra model with standard all-wheel drive (AWD).  For 2005 the Rendezvous Ultra is available in two-wheel drive models as well, and it’s this multi-purpose vehicle that is elegant enough to garner positive comparisons to expensive luxury sedans.

Monochromatic trim was about the best thing Buick could do to improve the Rendezvous’ looks.  It’s based at heart on the ill-starred Pontiac Aztek, and classic Buick design cues like a toothy oval grille and gracefully sculpted flanks can only go so far to disguise its awkward proportions.  17″ wheels are standard on the Rendezvous Ultra and improve the body-to-tire ratio somewhat.  It doesn’t look bad, but the best that can be said about the short-bodied, high-roofed Rendezvous is that it’s distinctive.  The single-color Rendezvous Ultra is further accented with a color-keyed grille and hints of chrome.

Inside, things are much nicer.  The high body allows for easy step-in and chair-height seating.  Even though it’s not a traditional sedan, there’s no mistaking the elegant green-on-silver instrument panel and optional head-up display for anything but a Buick.  A high console contains several convenient cubbies, including a large lower bin that’s perfect for wet umbrellas or large boxes of tissue.  The Rendezvous Ultra features suede fabric inserts on the seats and wood trim on the dash and steering wheel.  The rear seats are equally comfortable, with captain’s chairs for the middle row and a rear bench (standard on Ultra, optional on CX and CXL models) bringing seating capacity to six.  The rear seat folds flat, and the center row seats can be removed.  With the rear bench and rear seats folded, the Rendezvous offers 108.9 cubic feet of cargo space.  It’s luxurious, too, with a ride that’s quiet enough to rival Volvo or Audi.  Our passengers found it to be a great place to get around town from, comfortable and secure.  The available navigation system is touch-screen activated and integrated into the stereo and climate controls on vehicles so equipped.  An ultrasonic parking assist is also available to aid in backing up.

The suspension is nicely tuned, and the Rendezvous rides much better than the average minivan or SUV.  The independent front suspension is common; at the rear, a short-long arm setup offers excellent stability and compliance for such a tall vehicle.  Of course, most luxury sedans will eat the Rendezvous for lunch on a twisty road, but this tall do-all has great roll stability, and it’s smooth on the freeway.  Planning a road trip for four?  The Rendezvous fills the bill nicely.

Power is provided by a new all-aluminum 3.6 liter V6.  Variable valve timing keeps the power delivery smooth, and 242 horsepower is enough to get the Rendezvous moving in respectable fashion.  Lesser Rendezvous are equipped with the tried and true 3.4 liter V6, which is slightly less powerful and considerably less refined.  A four-speed automatic transmission is standard across the board.  Rendezvous buyers have a choice of front- or all-wheel drive.  GM’s Versatrak all-wheel drive is a full-time, on-demand system that transfers power when it detects wheel slippage.  The AWD Rendezvous is no SUV, but the added stability and traction are welcome when the roads get slippery.  Anti-lock brakes are standard.

Buick’s crossover vehicle comes close to matching the versatility of a minivan, but without the bulk.  Disillusioned SUV buyers who find street-bred luxury sport-utes like the Lexus RX330 and Volvo XC90 to be a tad too bulky and space-inefficient will find many of their questions answered by the not-quite-a-minivan Rendezvous Ultra.  It’s also as comfortable as a comparable luxury sedan.  Pricing on the Rendezvous starts at $27,270, and climbs up over $30,000 for the Ultra.

Specifications:
All specs are for the 2005 Buick Rendezvous Ultra, which we tested.
Length:         186.5 in.
Width:            73.6 in.
Height:            68.9 in.
Wheelbase:        112.2 in.
Cargo space:        18.1 cu.ft. (all seats up); 108.9 cu.ft. (all seats folded)
Towing capacity:    3500 lb.
Base price:        $27,270
Engine:         3.6 liter V6
Drivetrain:         four-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Horsepower:         242 @     6000
Torque:         232 @ 3500
Fuel capacity:        18.0 gal.
Est. mileage:        19/26 (front-wheel drive)

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