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Acceleration
"The 6-cyl provides brisk takeoffs, adequate passing power. The V8 feels measurably
stronger on both counts."
Value
"Buick positions Rainier as more luxurious than the Chevrolet, GMC, and Isuzu
SUVs that share its basic design. It is the quietest and best riding of the bunch.
Still, Rainier costs more than the others and can't escape the faults common
to their truck-type design: indifferent handling and mediocre fuel economy."
Ride
"Standard air-spring rear suspension provides firm control without the unwanted
bounce of the rear coil springs in related GM SUVs. Still, sharp bumps can cause
Rainier's tail to jolt or hop."
Economy
"Depending on driving conditions, we've averaged 12.1-17.4 mpg in tests of 6-cyl
versions of these GM models. We have not yet tested a V8 Rainier with Active
Fuel Management, but note that EPA estimates match those of the 6-cyl. Both engines
use regular-grade fuel."
Noise
"Buick's SUV has more sound insulation than its Chevy/GMC/Isuzu cousins. Rainier
has noticeably less wind and road noise than most truck-type SUVs. Unlike the
V8, the 6-cyl engine sounds gruff at full throttle."
Comfort - Front
"Fine head, leg room. Seat comfort OK, but firmer cushions would give better
support. Headrests, thick roof pillars interfere with some over-the-shoulder
and aft sightlines. Modest step-in height. Available power-adjustable pedals
may be helpful to shorter drivers."
Comfort - Rear
"Good head and knee room, plus adequate under-seat foot space despite uneven
floorboard. Split bench seat comfortable, fairly supportive, wide enough for
three friendly adults."
Controls
"Most controls are clear and handy, though adjusting low-mounted climate system
demands a long look from road. Available navigation system controls audio functions,
but is fairly easy to use overall. Interior materials and assembly fall short
of mark set by similarly priced SUVs from Acura, Lexus, and Volkswagen."
Cargo Room
"OK with rear seatback in place, generous with it folded. Seatback split 60/40,
folds easily with help from automatic-folding headrests. High opening to liftgate
glass hampers loading or unloading without using full liftgate. Nice array of
small-item storage space in cabin."
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