Buick Rendezvous Model Years and History

Buicks first foray into the crossover vehicle market, the Rendezvous was based on the same platform as the Pontiac Aztec. While the Pontiac crossover vehicles styling was poorly received by the marketplace, Buicks Rendezvous was welcomed as being less polarizing. Available either as a front-wheel or an all-wheel drive train, the 2002 Buick Rendezvous was propelled by a 3.4-liter V-6 engine generating 185 horsepower. Power for the premium crossover was upgraded during the 2004 model year with the optional 3.6-liter V-6 engine featuring variable valve timing. Standard on the Rendezvous Ultra, the 3.6-liter V-6 produced up to 245 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. The 3.4-liter engine would eventually be replaced by a 195-horsepower 3.5-liter powerplant in 2006. A premium crossover vehicle offered interior accommodations for up to seven passengers. The Buick Rendezvous received numerous year-to-year equipment additions since introduction. In 2003, the Rendezvous was available with XM satellite radio and an electronic lift-gate release. Equipment on the Buick crossover was again enhanced in 2004 to include second-row captains chairs, heads-up display and an ultrasonic rear park assist system. OnStar became standard on the 2004 model year Buick Rendezvous. A touchscreen navigation system was offered during the 2005 model year and the 2006 model year treated the Rendezvous to a mild styling refresh. In 2007, the was only offered as a front-wheel drive model with the 3.5-liter engine ahead of the vehicles replacement by the larger Enclave crossover vehicle.