2006 Buick Rendezvous

New levels of power, quietness, safety and security make Rendezvous the Buick’s premium crossover vehicle one of the most comprehensively equipped vehicles in its segment.

Powertrain and Performance

All Rendezvous models for 2006 are equipped with GM’s 196 horsepower, 3.5L V-6 engine, except the CXL Plus. This is powered by GM’s 3.6L V-6 VVT (variable valve timing) engine. This state-of-the-art powerplant, rated at 242 horsepower, delivers 90 percent of its peak torque where it is most useful-between 1500 and 6000 rpm – while returning outstanding fuel efficiency.

Design and Equipment

Like all Buicks, Rendezvous features GM’s OnStar safety and security system as a standard equipment in all versions for 2006. It is OnStar’s Generation 6 hardware, which includes hands-free voice recognition capabilities such as more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy. OnStar uses GPS satellite network and wireless technology, featuring care safety services and an OnStar Personal Calling, which enables drivers to make and receive hands-free voice activated phone calls using a powerful three-watt digital/analog system and external antenna for greater reception.

All Buick models for 2006 are joined in Rendezvous in receiving GM’s comprehensive Quiet Tuning initiative designed to reduce or tune out unwanted noise and harshness throughout every area of the vehicle. The quietest ride and most desirable frequency ranges for every Buick car and truck are achieved by the attention to areas such as exterior aerodynamics, component isolation and fine-tuning of all related elements

The use of laminated front side glass, revised or additional foam seals for the outside rearview mirrors and door handles, and the application of denser sound-absorbing material on the inside hood, within the instrument panel and on the engine compartment wall just ahead of the interior - all are included for Rendezvous by Notable Quiet initiatives.

A monochromatic exterior appearance is standard on all models for 2006 using a cue from the 2005 Rendezvous Ultra, and also new exterior colors are included such as Sagemist Metallic and Blue Frost Metallic on all models. A pair of optional two-tone exterior color combination is offered as an option on the CXL: Dark Platinum Metallic lower/ Platinum Metallic upper, or Sandstone Metallic lower/Cappuccino Frost Metallic upper. A revised front grille design with the new, large Buick Tri-shield emblem is also an additional change for 2006.

With each model equipped with a second-row bench seat that can seat three across, five-passenger seating is standard on the Rendezvous CX and CX Plus. A third-row seat is available on both those models and standard on CXL and CXL Plus, expanding seating capacity to seven, including the driver. With a third seat folded flush and the second row of seats removed, Rendezvous boasts a class-leading 108.9 cubic feet (3,084L) of cargo capacity.

All-wheel drive system and an independent front suspension and innovative short-and-long-arm (SLA) rear suspension give Rendezvous the smooth ride of a premium sedan. As an option, an automatic level-control system is included in the trailer package. Air bladder-assisted rear shock absorbers are regulated by an on-board compressor to maintain a level vehicle when heavy loads are carried or a trailer is attached. An auxiliary pressure outlet, rubber air hose and pressure gauge are provided in the rear for the convenient inflation of a tire, sports gear or beach toys. The available towing package is rated to pull loads of up to 3,500 pounds.

Safety and Security

In addition to GM’s OnStar system, Rendezvous comes with a full complement of standard safety and security features, including dual-stage frontal air bags, safety cage construction, remote keyless entry, PASS-Key III theft deterrent system, Rear Park Assist and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (AWD model). Side-impact air bags for front-seat occupants are also available.

The Rendezvous has GM’s Passenger Sensing System (PSS). PSS uses the latest sensing technology to turn the front passenger air bag on or off. If the sensor system detects an unoccupied front passenger seat or the presence of a smaller occupant, the front passenger air bag is designed to automatically turn off so it does not deploy in the event of a frontal collision. A status indicator on the instrument panel alerts occupants that the passenger air bag is on or off.

Even with this system, GM strongly recommends placing child passengers in an appropriate child seat secured in the second or third row of the vehicle. Never install a rear-facing infant seat in front of an active air bag. GM also recommends that all children 12 and under ride in the rear seat when possible.