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2003
Buick Rendezvous

Starts at:
$25,795
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • CX FWD
    Starts at
    $25,795
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • CXL FWD
    Starts at
    $25,795
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • CX AWD
    Starts at
    $28,895
    18 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • CXL AWD
    Starts at
    $28,895
    18 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    All Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous 2003 Buick Rendezvous

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Expert 2003 Buick Rendezvous review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
Buick’s Rendezvous crossover vehicle was brand-new for the 2002 model year. It blends the virtues of a sedan, sport utility vehicle and minivan and serves as the first truck-based model in Buick’s lineup since 1923. With the Rendezvous, Buick hoped to attract more younger buyers and counteract the brand’s appeal to older motorists. To help in that quest, and long before it went on sale, Buick exhibited the Rendezvous at golf tournaments, the COMDEX computer dealers’ convention and various public events.

Two new entertainment options will become available in the 2003 model. An XM Satellite Radio and a DVD-based system that has a 7-inch fold-down screen for video viewing in the rear seats may be installed in the new Rendezvous. At midseason, the Mexican-built SUV will gain an electronic liftgate release.

Either five or seven passengers can ride in the Rendezvous. A fully independent suspension aims to ease the ride quality, which is intended to emulate the Park Avenue Ultra sedan. The Rendezvous comes in two forms: as the front-wheel-drive CX model and as the higher-level CXL trim with Versatrak all-wheel drive (AWD). Versatrak is an optional feature on the CX, and this AWD system gives the Rendezvous extra flexibility in various road conditions.

Exterior
Described by the manufacturer as having a “refined ruggedness,” the Rendezvous has an overall shape like that of an SUV. The crossover model features details that promote a youthful image. Sharp lines take precedence over curves, and a fastback rear slope is said to be less boxy than a typical SUV’s back end.

Styling elements that are common on other Buicks are evident on the Rendezvous. The SUV’s front features an oval-shaped grille that is painted rather than trimmed in chrome. Chrome is used minimally throughout. An accent ring surrounds the center tri-shield emblem, and headlights with detailing around their lenses sit deep in the front fascia.

The Rendezvous’ eight-spoke 16-inch wheels are similar to the ones used on other Buick vehicles, but this SUV’s wheel design is aggressive. The top portion of the vehicle is considered more refined. The lower body gets a more rugged blacked-out appearance, which emphasizes the fact that its design combines the attributes of a premium sedan with those of a versatile SUV. Two-tone side cladding wraps around the entire vehicle. The Rendezvous rides a 112.2-inch wheelbase, measures 186.5 inches long overall and stands 68.9 inches tall (not including the roof rack).

Interior
The Rendezvous seats five occupants in standard form, and its reconfigurable interior may be equipped with third-row seats that hold two more occupants. The front buckets hold two people, and the second row can have a three-place split bench seat or two captain’s chairs; footrests are optional. Buick says the second-row seats flip and fold to give access to the optional third-row seats, which results in a seven-passenger capacity. The seats fold down to yield a cargo volume of 108.9 cubic feet, and a 4-by-8-foot panel can be loaded through the back door.

Low doorsills are intended to ease entry and exit. A two-tone interior comes in either leather, flat-woven cloth with leather bolsters or all-cloth with pile fabric. Instrument-cluster detailing is said to produce what Buick calls “a look of precious stones set in polished metal,” with the needles and numbers set into a silver face. The center console can hold a full-size laptop computer, and it has a special area for stowing a purse.

Driver amenities include an automatic locking and unlocking feature for the doors, a tire-inflation monitor that illuminates if low tire pressure occurs and an ultrasonic intrusion-alert system that can detect movement inside the vehicle while it is locked. An optional Ultrasonic Rear Park Assist system uses sensors to warn the driver of obstacles to the rear while the vehicle is backing up. A driver information center is included in the CXL model. GM’s OnStar communication system is a factory-installed option.

Under the Hood
A 185-horsepower, 3.4-liter V-6 engine generates 210 pounds-feet of torque and teams with a four-speed-automatic transmission. Versatrak on-demand AWD is standard on the upscale CXL model and offered as an option on the CX. No action is needed to engage the AWD system. The Rendezvous can haul up to 3,500 pounds when it is equipped with the available towing package.

Safety
Side-impact airbags and all-disc antilock brakes were standard on the 2002 Rendezvous but are now offered as optional equipment.

Driving Impressions
Despite structural similarities to the wildly styled, slow-selling Pontiac Aztek, Buick’s crossover SUV has an appearance and personality all of its own. The Rendezvous looks essentially like a Buick that happens to have a minivan/SUV type of body behind the familiar-shaped grille.

The excellent automatic-transmission responses are quick and easy, and acceleration is good, if not exactly inspiring. The Rendezvous runs very quietly and offers plenty of versatile space in a distinctive interior. Its gauges are especially notable in appearance, though they’re not the easiest to read at a glance.

The Rendezvous offers a generally soft ride, but the suspension hits some bumps rather hard. It tends to overreact to modest undulations in the pavement and causes a little too much motion for its occupants; the SUV creates excessively noticeable responses to bad spots. The Rendezvous’ handling is undeniably minivanlike; it is reasonably precise with good steering feel and feedback.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2003 Buying Guide
Posted on 2/5/03

2003 Buick Rendezvous review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
Buick’s Rendezvous crossover vehicle was brand-new for the 2002 model year. It blends the virtues of a sedan, sport utility vehicle and minivan and serves as the first truck-based model in Buick’s lineup since 1923. With the Rendezvous, Buick hoped to attract more younger buyers and counteract the brand’s appeal to older motorists. To help in that quest, and long before it went on sale, Buick exhibited the Rendezvous at golf tournaments, the COMDEX computer dealers’ convention and various public events.

Two new entertainment options will become available in the 2003 model. An XM Satellite Radio and a DVD-based system that has a 7-inch fold-down screen for video viewing in the rear seats may be installed in the new Rendezvous. At midseason, the Mexican-built SUV will gain an electronic liftgate release.

Either five or seven passengers can ride in the Rendezvous. A fully independent suspension aims to ease the ride quality, which is intended to emulate the Park Avenue Ultra sedan. The Rendezvous comes in two forms: as the front-wheel-drive CX model and as the higher-level CXL trim with Versatrak all-wheel drive (AWD). Versatrak is an optional feature on the CX, and this AWD system gives the Rendezvous extra flexibility in various road conditions.

Exterior
Described by the manufacturer as having a “refined ruggedness,” the Rendezvous has an overall shape like that of an SUV. The crossover model features details that promote a youthful image. Sharp lines take precedence over curves, and a fastback rear slope is said to be less boxy than a typical SUV’s back end.

Styling elements that are common on other Buicks are evident on the Rendezvous. The SUV’s front features an oval-shaped grille that is painted rather than trimmed in chrome. Chrome is used minimally throughout. An accent ring surrounds the center tri-shield emblem, and headlights with detailing around their lenses sit deep in the front fascia.

The Rendezvous’ eight-spoke 16-inch wheels are similar to the ones used on other Buick vehicles, but this SUV’s wheel design is aggressive. The top portion of the vehicle is considered more refined. The lower body gets a more rugged blacked-out appearance, which emphasizes the fact that its design combines the attributes of a premium sedan with those of a versatile SUV. Two-tone side cladding wraps around the entire vehicle. The Rendezvous rides a 112.2-inch wheelbase, measures 186.5 inches long overall and stands 68.9 inches tall (not including the roof rack).

Interior
The Rendezvous seats five occupants in standard form, and its reconfigurable interior may be equipped with third-row seats that hold two more occupants. The front buckets hold two people, and the second row can have a three-place split bench seat or two captain’s chairs; footrests are optional. Buick says the second-row seats flip and fold to give access to the optional third-row seats, which results in a seven-passenger capacity. The seats fold down to yield a cargo volume of 108.9 cubic feet, and a 4-by-8-foot panel can be loaded through the back door.

Low doorsills are intended to ease entry and exit. A two-tone interior comes in either leather, flat-woven cloth with leather bolsters or all-cloth with pile fabric. Instrument-cluster detailing is said to produce what Buick calls “a look of precious stones set in polished metal,” with the needles and numbers set into a silver face. The center console can hold a full-size laptop computer, and it has a special area for stowing a purse.

Driver amenities include an automatic locking and unlocking feature for the doors, a tire-inflation monitor that illuminates if low tire pressure occurs and an ultrasonic intrusion-alert system that can detect movement inside the vehicle while it is locked. An optional Ultrasonic Rear Park Assist system uses sensors to warn the driver of obstacles to the rear while the vehicle is backing up. A driver information center is included in the CXL model. GM’s OnStar communication system is a factory-installed option.

Under the Hood
A 185-horsepower, 3.4-liter V-6 engine generates 210 pounds-feet of torque and teams with a four-speed-automatic transmission. Versatrak on-demand AWD is standard on the upscale CXL model and offered as an option on the CX. No action is needed to engage the AWD system. The Rendezvous can haul up to 3,500 pounds when it is equipped with the available towing package.

Safety
Side-impact airbags and all-disc antilock brakes were standard on the 2002 Rendezvous but are now offered as optional equipment.

Driving Impressions
Despite structural similarities to the wildly styled, slow-selling Pontiac Aztek, Buick’s crossover SUV has an appearance and personality all of its own. The Rendezvous looks essentially like a Buick that happens to have a minivan/SUV type of body behind the familiar-shaped grille.

The excellent automatic-transmission responses are quick and easy, and acceleration is good, if not exactly inspiring. The Rendezvous runs very quietly and offers plenty of versatile space in a distinctive interior. Its gauges are especially notable in appearance, though they’re not the easiest to read at a glance.

The Rendezvous offers a generally soft ride, but the suspension hits some bumps rather hard. It tends to overreact to modest undulations in the pavement and causes a little too much motion for its occupants; the SUV creates excessively noticeable responses to bad spots. The Rendezvous’ handling is undeniably minivanlike; it is reasonably precise with good steering feel and feedback.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2003 Buying Guide
Posted on 2/5/03

Safety review

Based on the 2003 Buick Rendezvous base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Nhtsa rollover rating
3/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years / 100,000 miles
Powertrain
3 years / 36,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 model years or newer / up to 75,000 miles
Basic
12 months / 12,000 miles bumper-to-bumper original warranty, then may continue to 6 years / 100,000 miles limited (depending on variables)
Dealer certification
172-point inspection

Consumer reviews

3.7 / 5
Based on 39 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.4
Interior 4.3
Performance 3.8
Value 3.8
Exterior 4.0
Reliability 3.6

Most recent

  • Good car, keep it maintained

    This car has been reliable over the years, handles well, decent on gas. Nice car for someone who will take care of it not so much for a young person who hot rods. Enjoy the back cargo space, used it to keep toolbox.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    21 people out of 21 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Nice looking, but beware of problems

    After a year of having it the back windows fell off the track, now rear hatch ajar light stays on. Currently has a fuel problem.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 2.0
    11 people out of 13 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Roomy, comfortable, reliable family vehicle!

    We have had several Rendezvous of various years and love them. Good gas mileage, roomy family vehicle, loaded with options, comfortable ride, easy maintenance, it will not disappoint.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    15 people out of 15 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I have a few minor issues

    I need to catch up on the recall notices. I have a panel that is saying check fuel and the other meter is all blurry
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 3.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • First car

    Interior design was great for me, loved how it drove very smooth and great on bumps. Great for someone with a family or someone with little ones. Felt safe and like Suzy (that was her name) could take a hit, just like her owner:)
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Most comfortable vehicle I've ever had

    I love the sleek body style and nice lines. It is the most comfortable car I've ever owned. Plenty of room, comfortable seats and rides smooth like a luxury vehicle. I was never a fan of Buicks but this changed my whole perspective.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I wouldn't have another g m come xxxx or highwayer

    It's a piece of xxxx!!!!!� I hate this car like u don't know i want to burn it!! !!! Gm should b ashamed for putting this thing on the road
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 1.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 1.0
    2 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Good car

    It's ok but had a few issues brought to mechanics and they didnt pickup the problems when I brought the car for an inspection .. so I purchased the car but then had to make repairs
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 2.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 3.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Please, bring back the Rendezvous

    I was so happy with this vehicle. Sad to see it go. So want it back. Loved the bells and whistles. Sunroof, power everything, heated seats. Great on gas for me.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Best car I've ever owned

    You can drive for miles and miles, these cars go over 400,000 miles and that if you keep up with it and stuff. But it worked for college for me, and I love it.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 2.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Buick Rendezvous

    This car is really good aa big family. Its comfortable and everything works really good and it has new motor and new radiator.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great car, clean, no smoking, no problems

    I kept this vehicle in mint condition and it has been a reliable vehicle requiring standard maintenance. I have replaced suspension parts due to mileage to get a more comfortable ride. There is slight hail damage which wont cost much to repair. I am selling this because I wanted a new pick-up for carry more of a load. I would recommend this to anyone. I would even buy it if I didn't need a pick-up.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

Buick dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2003 Buick Rendezvous?

The 2003 Buick Rendezvous is available in 2 trim levels:

  • CX (2 styles)
  • CXL (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2003 Buick Rendezvous?

The 2003 Buick Rendezvous offers up to 19 MPG in city driving and 26 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

Is the 2003 Buick Rendezvous reliable?

The 2003 Buick Rendezvous has an average reliability rating of 3.6 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2003 Buick Rendezvous owners.

Is the 2003 Buick Rendezvous a good SUV?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2003 Buick Rendezvous. 71.8% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

3.7 / 5
Based on 39 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.4
  • Interior: 4.3
  • Performance: 3.8
  • Value: 3.8
  • Exterior: 4.0
  • Reliability: 3.6
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