After along string of Honda cars, I just got myself a 2006 all black Rendezvous CX and after two months, I am still very much impressed with my choice. It’s quite the vehicle, and quite the deal if you ask me! The all black treatment really makes it look better than lighter colors and the previous two tone choices, and with the appearance modifications of recent years (clear blinkers and bigger wheels and tires notably) the rendezvous is a fine looking contraption. For the price, it is a splendid van/wagon/SUV and it looks way more upscale than it’s $28000 price tag. We had looked at used ones, but with all the good offers from GM, a new one seemed like a better idea.
I am quite impressed with the standard equipment (fogs, large wheels and tires, big V6, good towing capacity, 4 wheel disc brakes, independent suspension, tons of room, removable rear seats, good radio, cruise, and even more impressed by what it doesn’t have (no abs, no traction control, no unnecessary high-tech under the hood, no wood on the dash, no mag wheels – I prefer steel rims and hubcaps – no third row, no navigation, no useless electronic gizmos). I just wanted a nice looking and spacious vehicle to bring us where we want to go in comfort and that could easily tow week-end toys on a small trailer. It is quite economical if you use the cruise control on the highway and keep the revs below 2000 rpm. Despite it’s big V6, it compares well to a Honda Element on fuel economy. Besides, for most errands and my commute to work, I drive my odd little Honda hybrid. The Buick complements it well.
Reliability wise, I am totally at ease with the Rendezvous. They’ve been building it long enough (another plus) and I’m sure GM has ironed the kinks out. 2005-2006 models don’t appear to have had any noteworthy problems. And if there are issues, well the warranty is quite good. I just believe this is quite the deal and that more people should take it on a test drive when wanting a family vehicle in that price range. This thing is the same price as a regular sedan, but it is HUGE inside and it towers over pretty much everything. I also must add that I am 37, (about half the age of a typical Buick owner) and just find it so amusing to say I drive a Buick! It’s soooo comfortable, and smooth and different to the generic or trendy cars that all my neighbors or friends have. I love it!!