2004 Buick Rainier CXL AWD review from North America
"A Very Refined and Elegant SUV"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Nothing has gone wrong with this vehicle so far.
General comments?
The interior is well designed. Ergonomics and controls are excellent. All controls are within easy reach, are easily readable, and are not hard to use.
The leather is elegant and the seats are consequentially comfortable.
Chrome is used abundantly in the cabin.
Real burled walnut is accented throughout the cabin too.
The interior fit/finish is first-rate.
The exterior exhibits first rate fit and finish too.
The engine is strong, smooth, and quiet. Even at 5800 RPM, the engine does not exhibit any harshness or vibration.
The transmission is smooth and has great shift patterns. It easily downshifts when you need to, and delivers great gas mileage.
Gas mileage, on average, is about 15 in mixed driving. The vehicle requires 87 octane fuel.
The Rainier is an excellent vehicle that is as quiet, elegant, and refined as they come. I would take one over an Acura MDX, Volvo X40, and even a Mercedes M500.
A 5.3 liter OHV DOD V8 is also available. This engine produces 300 HP and 335 FT LB of torque.
The standard 4.2 liter DOHC Vortec I-6 produces 275 HP, and 275 FT LB of torque.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 2004 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.2 Liter DOHC Inline 6 Vortec, VVT-E Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 25 miles |
| Most recent distance | 4187 miles |
| Previous car | GMC Envoy |
| Date of Entry | 1st August, 2005 |