2004 Buick Rendezvous

2004 BUICK RENDEZVOUS AND RENDEZVOUS ULTRA ADVANCE TO THE NEXT LEVEL IN LUXURY AND PERFORMANCE

As Buick Motor Division celebrates 100 years of premium vehicle production, Buick welcomes Rendezvous Últra to its 2004 product line. Joining Rendezvous CX and Rendezvous CXL, Rendezvous Últra is an outstanding illustration of a versatile 21st Century driving machine designed to meet the increased demands of today's diverse market.
Building on the growing success of its versatile, next-generation design, all 2004 Rendezvous models handily achieve the disciplines of a premium touring vehicle, agile urban commuter and rugged rural workhorse in a stylish, well-appointed quality package.

Últra's new V-6 VVT powerplant
When it comes to performance, the 2004 Rendezvous Últra features a new, all-aluminum 3.6L VVT (variable valve timing) global V-6 engine coupled to GM's proven Hydra-Matic 4T65-E electronic four-speed overdrive automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com)

Representing a new generation of flexible GM powerplants designed for use in premium and high performance applications, the 3.6L V-6 VVT generates 245 horsepower (183 kw), a significant jump from the base 185-hp (138-kw) powerplant.



Tested on the world's most challenging race circuit - Germany's famed 12.8-mile (20.6-m), 177-corner Nürburgring - the 3.6L V-6 VVT was painstakingly engineered and fine-tuned to meet exacting specifications. 'The result is an amazing powerplant that is surprisingly smooth and quiet, especially for the impressive amount of power it delivers across a wide range of driving conditions,' said Tim Cyrus, chief engineer, V-6 VVT engines.

The 3.6L V-6 VVT engine's fully variable intake and exhaust valve timing - a first for any GM engine - achieves outstanding flexibility, delivering 90 percent of the engine's peak torque available across a remarkably broad 1600 rpm to 5800 rpm operating range. The engine's VVT design allows for more complete combustion, contributing to improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. Rendezvous Últra's estimated fuel economy numbers are 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined.

Rendezvous Últra ride
Along with its advanced powertrain, features such as GM's innovative Versatrak 'on-demand' all-wheel-drive system, independent front and rear suspension, and rear gas-pressure monotube shocks all contribute to Buick Rendezvous Últra's precision cornering characteristics and highly adaptive ability to deliver a smooth, quiet ride in any number of environments.

The automatic level-control system, included in the trailer package, is also available as an option. An on-board compressor regulates air-bladder-assisted rear shock absorbers 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.

Rendezvous Últra interior
Rendezvous Últra's quiet, relaxed interior environment features a list of comfort and convenience accoutrements that reflect Buick's commitment to upscale luxury and quality:

• Second-row captain's chairs

• Third-row seating

• Head-up instrumentation display

• High-fidelity XM Satellite Radio with 100 coast-to-coast digital channels

Available GPS Satellite Navigation Option with detailed on-screen map information
Available DVD entertainment system with 7-inch (178-mm) fold-down, ceiling integrated monitor

Standard OnStar system
Últrasonic Rear Park Assist warns driver of obstacles behind the rear bumper

Electronic release for one-handed liftgate operation
With its unique blend of SÚV, premium sedan and minivan attributes, Rendezvous Últra is an attractive alternative for busy families. Customers enjoy the added visibility of raised seating, the sure-footedness of all-wheel drive and the cargo-carrying capability of an SÚV in addition to its great ride, good fuel economy and easy step-in height. Former minivan owners welcome Rendezvous Últra's six-passenger seating. Former premium sedan owners are impressed with Rendezvous Últra's luxury comfort and styling, as well as its added flexibility for passengers and cargo.

The versatility of Rendezvous Últra is reflected in its various seating combinations for as many as six passengers. There are two sumptuous bucket seats in the front. The second row comes with two captain's chairs. The third row bench, which can be folded flush, provides comfortable seating for two adult passengers. Rendezvous leads its competitors in available cargo space with 108.9 cubic feet (3,084L) when the second row is removed and the third row is folded.

Safety features
Customers will welcome the 2004 Rendezvous Últra's numerous safety appointments such as standard front and optional side air bags with advanced inflation characteristics for front-seat passengers, safety-cage construction, available four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes and optional OnStar communications.

New features for Rendezvous CX and CXL
Rendezvous for 2004 introduces new exterior colors and interior colors and features. Dark Steel Blue Metallic is new for exteriors and Light Neutral replaces oak inside.Chrome trim accents, color-keyed door switches and leather seats in new monotone finish further refine the interior. GPS navigation radio is also available for the first time in 2004..

Rendezvous CX and CXL
Rendezvous CX and CXL models are available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, with a 3400 3.4L V-6 engine that produces 185 horsepower (138 kw). Fuel economy estimates are 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for the front-wheel-drive version and 18/24 for the all-wheel-drive version. For 2004, the V-6 VVT is available for the Rendezvous CXL.

An innovative short-and-long-arm independent rear suspension is key to Rendezvous' impressive ride and handling. The rear suspension utilizes cast aluminum knuckle assemblies, cross members, and upper and lower control arms for minimal unsprung weight. Curved coil springs are packaged neatly between each lower control arm and the rear-suspension cross member. As a result, Rendezvous' superior road-holding and ride characteristics are more like a premium sedan than an SÚV or minivan.

Source - Buick