With its 185-horsepower 3.4-liter V6 the Rendezvous accelerates with reasonable aplomb. This engine uses an iron block and pushrod-operated overhead valves.
Models equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 accelerate more quickly. It's smoother, revs more freely and feels more responsive. The 3.6-liter V6 is an entirely new engine, with all-aluminum construction and dual overhead camshafts. A 32-bit microprocessor continuously adjusts its valve timing according to conditions; GM calls this technology VVT (for Variable Valve Timing). The same computer also manages its more advanced fuel injection and coil-on-plug ignition systems. In short, the dual overhead-cam 3.6-liter V6 is a more modern, more sophisticated design than the overhead-valve 3.4-liter V6. And the 3.6-liter produces significantly more power: 242 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 232 pound-feet of torque at 3500 rpm. More important, 90 percent of that peak torque is present and accounted for between 1500 and 6000 rpm. That means power is instantly available at all engine speeds.
Rendezvous deserves a look on the basis of economy alone. It uses regular unleaded gas, not premium, and its thirst is temperate for its size. Fuel economy ratings: 18/27 mpg City/Highway for the overhead-cam 3.6-liter, 19/26 mpg for the older 3.4-liter. With AWD, the numbers are 18/25 for the larger engine, 18/24 for the smaller.
The load-leveling suspension, available as part of the trailer towing package, uses compressed air to fill bladders in line with the rear shock absorbers. The air pressure keeps Rendezvous level when carrying a heavy load or towing a trailer. The system comes with an auxiliary air outlet, rubber air hose, and pressure gauge, for inflating tires or toys. Next Page