2006 Buick Rainier in Greeneville, TN - $3,499

Introduced for the 2004 model year, the Buick SUV is based on GM's award-winning midsize SUV architecture. The Rainier offers a level of style, ride comfort and performance that sets it apart from other midsize SUVs.

For 2006, Rainier features elegant new exterior touches which include chromed accents on the side roof rails and exterior door handles. Up front, Rainier gets a new front grille design with a large Buick tri-shield emblem while its rear appearance is complemented by a body-colored rear exterior license plate surround and liftgate handle. In addition, all Rainier models are now equipped with the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system combined with traction control. Optional head curtain side airbags include a rollover protection sensing system.

Manufactured at GM’s Moraine, Ohio, assembly complex, the Buick SUV is available in the single CXL trim level and two- or four-wheel drive configurations. Power is generated by a state-of-the-art Vortec 4200 4.2L inline six-cylinder aluminum engine or a powerful Vortec 5300 5.3 V8 prime mover. Both engines communicate torque to the pavement through a smooth shifting Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed electronically controlled automatic with overdrive and torque converter clutch.

The Vortec 5300 V8 engine is equipped with GM's fuel-saving Displacement on Demand (DoD) technology. DOD enables fuel economy gains of up to five percent in certain light-load driving conditions by reducing the number of cylinders engaged in the combustion process. A sophisticated, next-generation engine controller determines when to deactivate cylinders, allowing the engine to maintain vehicle speed in lighter-load conditions -- such as highway cruising.

When the cylinders are deactivated, the engine effectively operates as a V4, with alternative cylinders on each cylinder bank disabled. The engine seamlessly returns to V8 mode the instant the controller determines the vehicle speed or load requires additional power.

On the road, the standard V6 engine is smooth and capable at speed. The optional four-wheel drive system does not interfere with low speed maneuvers. Rainier's strong body-on-frame vehicle structure and best-in-class body stiffness is complemented by QuietTuning, Buick's comprehensive engineering initiative aimed at reducing unwanted noise and harshness on every Buick car and truck for 2006.

Suspension hardware includes a fully independent front suspension system alone with a five-link, electronically controlled rear air suspension. Replacing the standard rear coil springs for superior damping and improved isolation from road noise, the air suspension system employs sensors that manage a compressor that instantly adjusts air spring pressure to maintain a level ride height.

Inside the cabin, occupants are treated to the high level of luxury and creature comforts. Outward visibility is excellent, with a full complement of analog gauges -- speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, volts, fuel and water temperature. The odometer is digital.

Thoughtful touches abound -- from the two dash mounted power points, seat mounted safety belts for driver and front passenger to the ample storage space and cupholders. Entry and exit are enhanced by wide doors and strategically placed hand grips at each door. Leather seating is comfortable and inviting.

Rear seat passengers enjoy special attention, with separate controls mounted at the back of the center console for ventilation, audio jacks for headphone, two power points and a dual cupholder. The 60/40 split rear seat is of the flip/fold variety. The headrest flips back when folded flat with the cargo floor. It does not have to be removed or stored separately.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 113.0; overall length: 193.4; width: 75.4; height: 74.5 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 4.2L inline six -- 291 hp at 6,000 rpm and 277 lbs-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm; 5.3L V8 -- 300 hp at 5,200 rpm and 330 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Transmission: four-speed electronically controlled automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 16 city/19 hwy., (RWD); 15 city/18 hwy., (AWD).

Cargo capacity: 80.1 cu. ft.

Towing capacity: 6,700 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, OnStar communications system, PASSLock passive theft-deterrent system, automatic power door locks, remote keyless entry, alarm system, engine immobilizer, universal home remote, fog lamps, daytime running lamps, automatic headlamps, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, StabiliTrak vehicle stability system and full-size spare tire. Optional safety equipment includes power adjustable pedals, heavy duty limited slip rear axle and front/rear head curtain airbags.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 6-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 Buick Rainier SUV starts from $30,580 for rear-wheel drive and $32,580 for all-wheel drive. Destination charges add $710.

As tested

2006 Buick Rainier CXL AWD SUV

Exterior color: Platinum Metallic

Interior color: Gray

Tire make/model: Michelin Cross Terrain

Tire size: P245/65R17

Base price $32,580

Destination charges $ 710

Luxury package $ 225

Head curtain side-impact airbags $ 495

Polished aluminum wheels $ 495

Electric adjustable pedals $ 150

Cargo convenience package $ 150

Total as tested $34,805

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