 About the Buick RainierThe Buick Rainier was a mid-sized SUV that became a very popular choice in that market after its introduction in 2004. It's notable for its body-on-frame construction, rear wheel drive, an optional 5.3L V-8 engine and optional all-wheel drive, as well as its standard SUV size, unusual for a Buick. While the Rainier certainly made an impact and provided some differentiation for Buick's lineup, it was phased out of production in 2007. The Rainier was a comfortable ride, but unfortunately it wasn't very fuel efficient and drivers often complained of poor handling.One of the advantages of the Buick Rainier was its power. Its standard engine was a 4.2L Vortec I6, which provided 291 hp. The optional 5.3L V8 offered an improved 302 hp. With a curb weight of about 4400 pounds, the... View more Rainier was big for a standard truck-sized SUV and was capable of towing 5800 pounds standard. However, there was never a seven passenger version of the SUV. Buick kept it as a five-passenger auto and focused on promoting its smooth ride and luxury features. Fuel economy was a major issue at 16/22 mpg for the standard I6 engine. The history of the Buick Rainier is brief. General Motors introduced the mid-sized SUV in 2004 and made minor changes to its features before it was eliminated in 2007 to make way for the Buick Enclave. The Enclave was seen by many critics as a superior alternative to the Rainier due to its improved handling. However, by the time the last Raniers rolled off of the assembly line, many of the handling problems had been improved or eliminated. A stability control system, for instance, provided a much smoother ride in the later model. The CXL trim option added features to the Rainier including an XM satellite radio and additional options included a rear seat entertainment system and leather upholstery. A CXL Plus trim was also available in the 2004 model, although it was dropped. Buyers preferred the standard I6 engine to the V8, probably for the lower cost. Despite a cylinder deactivation system, both engines suffered from poor fuel efficiency, which became a serious factor in the model's mainstream acceptance as gas prices rose. While the Buick Rainier was a decent alternative to the Oldsmobile Bravada, it received lukewarm reviews, especially given its adequate but not exceptional safety ratings. The best features of the SUV were in the 2005-2007 models. Consumer Guide and other publications lauded the luxury features, off-road abilities and the superior stability control of the later models. While its successor, the Enclave, improved on these features, the Rainier was a notable step into the mid-size luxury SUV market for the Buick brand. View less | |||
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