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The 2004 Buick Rainier is the vehicle the famed golfer touts in
television commercials
The 2004 Buick Rainier is the vehicle the famed golfer touts in television commercials. And with Buick's trademark front grill style and my test car's deep black exterior, 2004 VB Rainier is an impressive sight.
But the exterior is further complemented by a well-designed interior, a 5.3-liter engine and a host of standard features that sets it apart from the GMC Envoy, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Mercury Mountaineer, the comparable offerings in its category.
As one example, the Rainier has a standard 6-cylinder engine, but there's an optional V8, albeit a $1,500 option. As such, it's the only mid- sized, five-seat SUV with a V8. The Rainier is only available with a four- speed automatic transmission, but options include rear-wheel drive with traction control or the all-wheel drive my vehicle included.
It's nice the Buick Rainier is marketed as a five-passenger vehicle and doesn't claim to be larger as is often the case with other manufacturers. Head and knee space in the front and rear seats is more than adequate.
The Buick Rainier couldn't drive more smoothly, particularly considering its power and versatility. While exceedingly quiet and stylish, a towing package and wiring harness is standard for more rugged needs.
But when driven as a passenger vehicle and not a working car, the Rainier's quietness is the result of 2004 model's thicker laminated glass in the windshield and side windows. Likewise, sound-reducing material has been added into the body.
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