A new Buick sensibility has guided the evolution of its
existing stable and the introduction of new models. The
2005 Buick Rainier, first introduced last year, is a prime
example. The first Buick truck-based SUV, the Rainier has
typical Buick luxuries combined with more power and rugged
capability than any Buick in history.
The Rainier offers a couple of engine choices, comes with
two trim level, that start with the up-level CXL, which
means you can expect even the most "basic" Buick
Rainier to not be basic at all. In short, The Rainier is
a very credible and competitive addition to the offerings
in the popular full-size SUV class.
Available
Models
The 2005 Buick Rainier offers the up-level CXL trim only,
a determinants of interior amenity. Performance options
include Front- or All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) with either engine,
V6 or V8.
Interior Features
The four-door Rainier has plenty of room, either for big
families or for four adults on the go with plenty of luggage.
Two lush bucket seats are up front, while the second row
split-bench has automatic folding headrests and can fold
up itself for lots of additional room cargo room.
Some of the standards that come with the CXL trim include
A/C with dual-zone automatic climate controls, the OnStar
system, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and
climate controls, cruise control and leather upholstery
on 8-way power front bucket seats. A memory system for the
driver seat and mirrors, add to the convenience, as do heated
power mirrors, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/ cassette and
CD player, rear radio controls and so on. The list goes
on and this is the standard trim level. Add GPS Navigation,
Bose Audio, a sunroof or heated front seats as stand-alone
extras.
Exterior Features
The Rendezvous Ultra has a power liftgate that features
an electronic release for easy, one-handed operation. It
also has an easy step-in height to accommodate most every
type of passenger.
Performance
2005 Buick Rainier buyers have a choice between a 4.2-liter
dohc V6 engine with 275 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 275 lb-ft
of torque at 3600 rpm or a honkin' V8 with a 5.3-liter ohv
engine capable of 290 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque at 4000
rpm. These engines are mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission
with overdrive and torque converter clutch and they can
power either a front or all-wheel-drive powertrain. The
Rainier engine choices offer between 14 and 21 mpg (city/hwy),
depending on your choice of V8 or V6.
Other performance features include standard traction control
(2WD only), a limited-slip differential and 245/65R17 tires
on alloy wheels, and with a full-size spare tire. Towing
features include a towing capacity up to 6700 lbs and a
trailer-hitch platform, wiring harness and rear load-leveling
air suspension are standard.
Safety and Security
Safety appointments include standard front and optional
side airbags with advanced inflation characteristics for
front-seat passengers, a safety-cage construction and standard
four-wheel antilock disc brakes. fog lights, cornering lights,
a theft-deterrent system and available OnStar emergency
assistance service add to the safety and security profile.
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Fast Stats
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Seats |
5
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MSRP
from |
$35,765
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Engine |
4.2L I6
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5.3L V8
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Horsepower |
275 @ 6000
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300 @ 5200
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Transmission |
4-speed
auto
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MPG:
City/Hwy |
16 / 21
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15 / 19
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