Automotive Trends

     When it comes to midsize luxury SUVs, it seems imports get all the glory. 
     Let’s see — there’s the stunningly popular Acura MDX, with its precise driving feel, solid body, and nimble handling. Then there’s the gadget-filled Lexus RX 330 that has such a smooth ride and quiet cabin, it hardly feels like you’re driving at all. And who can forget BMW’s wild-child X5, the sports car of SUVs?
     With an all-star lineup like that, you’d think there’s no room left for another competitor. Yet, like the Helen Keller of automakers, Buick has bravely — and perhaps naively — entered the mix to produce a car-based, luxurious SUV called the Rendezvous.
     Unlike the gutsy Miss Keller, Buick could see its hard-to-beat competition and knew it would be virtually impossible to whip those stalwarts on their own turf, so the company decided to offer a lower-priced alternative that matches the competition in most areas. Better yet, while it doesn’t have the horsepower of those fancy imports, it has something even more important: star power from Tiger Woods.
     Geniuses, these Buick marketing execs.
     In any event, the Rendezvous turned out to be a nice SUV at a very nice price when it was introduced as a 2002 model. With a starting sticker well under $30,000, it holds its own against competitors that can cost twice as much.
     Its strong points are a smooth ride and terrific handling, both helped by a taut unibody frame similar to those used on modern sedans. The ride is velvety, soaking up bumps and potholes like homemade bread in Mom’s beef stew. Plus, with good steering, a well-tuned suspension, and grippy tires, the Rendezvous handles more like the X5 than you’d expect.
     And, no matter what the snooty Europeans and Japanese may think, there’s something to be said for the Rendezvous’ all-American style. Sweeping lines, chrome trim, and vivacious curves give it an air of classicism rarely seen this side of the new Ford Thunderbird, yet it’s conservative enough to pass as a modern SUV.

     Inside, the cabin is nice and comfortable without being ostentatious. Materials and colors are above expectations, especially for a General Motors product, and the leather seats are particularly soft and comfortable. The back seat is roomy as well, but no third-row seat is available.
     Two new options will keep gadget lovers happy. XM Satellite radio is available and particularly nice for long road trips, and a DVD player can keep back-seat passengers entertained for hours.
     Now for the downside: Buick engineers had to cut corners somewhere, and they picked the noise level and powertrain. While neither are particularly awful, they simply don’t match the extreme refinement of the Rendezvous’ imported competitors.
     Power comes from a 3.4-liter V6, which makes an acceptable 185 horsepower. It’s adequate for climbing hills or accelerating onto highways, but it’s far from the ample horsepower and torque expected in today’s luxury SUVs. It also makes a fairly loud racket when you step on the gas pedal.
     Overall, though, it’s hard to argue with the Rendezvous’ near-perfect mix of luxury and economy. It has a roomy, sumptuous cabin and a supple ride that’s difficult — if not impossible — to beat at its entry-luxury price.