DETROIT Buick Motor Division today announced the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for its all-new 2002 Buick Rendezvous and set the benchmark for value in premium crossover vehicles. The MSRP for an all-wheel drive Rendezvous equipped with Versatrak, General Motors' innovative "on-demand" system, is $28,027. That places Rendezvous over $6,500 below the all-wheel drive version of the Acura MDX ($34,850) and over $8,000 below the four-wheel drive Lexus RX300 ($36,150).
Also a great value, the front-wheel drive CX model without Versatrak has a base price of $25,499. It can be ordered with an all-speed traction control system that employs both powertrain and brake system intervention to avoid wheel spin on slippery surfaces. Versatrak also can be ordered as an option on the front-wheel drive Rendezvous CX model.
"Our MSRP for Rendezvous really sets us apart from the competition," said Jack Bowen, Rendezvous brand manager. "It opens up the premium crossover vehicle market to a whole new group of customers that up until now couldn't afford this kind of vehicle."
"In true Buick tradition, Rendezvous represents the combination of great value and a premium vehicle," said Bowen. It is the first crossover vehicle that makes available the combination of a third-row seat which can accommodate two full-size adults comfortably, a low flat-load floor, all-wheel drive and independent rear suspension. The Lexus RX300 does not offer a third row seat, lacking the reconfigurable seating of Rendezvous.