The Ultra features new interior and exterior treatments and a new, all-aluminum 3.6L V-6 VVT (Variable Valve Timing) engine. This front-wheel-drive engine combination is exclusive to Buick.

"The Rendezvous Ultra represents Buick’s next step in establishing itself as a contender in the premium utility market," said Chris Mazglad, marketing director. "Rendezvous has been a real success story with its great ride, excellent function and unique style. The Ultra simply pushes that success to new heights."

The Ultra’s monochromatic exterior, body-colored grille and jewel-like touches create a sleek, sophisticated look. The easily identifiable exterior continues with the trademark Buick chrome tri-shield emblem, which will be larger and take on the look of high-end jewelry.

Inside, the Ultra is elegant and refined with wood accents, including a wood steering wheel, and chrome touches on various gauges and dials. A new seat design, featuring leather and sueded fabric inserts, creates a comfortable atmosphere.

"The interior upgrades reflect Buick's commitment to further improving interior quality, and supports the division’s strategy as it continues to offer premium products to the marketplace," adds Mazglad.

The V-6 generates 245 hp (preliminary), 65 hp more than the base Rendezvous engine, and delivers smooth acceleration and highly refined power. This double overhead cam engine, first used on the Cadillac CTS, will also be available as an option on the Rendezvous CXL for the 2004 model year. Preliminary fuel economy is 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway for AWD, comparable to the base AWD Rendezvous.

Rendezvous has successfully brought a new customer to Buick showrooms. Averaging 15 years younger than the Buick sedan customer, current Rendezvous owners are among the most affluent in the medium utility segment, and the Rendezvous Ultra is expected to continue that trend. Buick expects the Ultra to comprise 10 percent of its overall model mix. Production begins in the first quarter of 2004.