I can't say I'm a giant fan of the silver faced gauges and green needles now that I've lived with them. While they are kind of cool to look at I suppose I'm a traditionalist preferring white on black backgrounds or at the very most black on white. Just the same they help Buick distinguish its SUV from the Trailblazer, Envoy, Bravada, etal, and tie the larger truck in with the minivan based Rendezvous.

For the price tag that the Rainier carries, I wasn't expecting faux wood trim. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

In the same way the faux wood is a little too faux, and in the Buick's price range should be real to compete with its imported competition. The chrome trim is a nice touch and leather of a decent quality, covering door panels and seats. As expected the front buckets are more chair-like in their construction than others in this category, offering comfortable heated cushions but nowhere near the lateral support of say an Acura MDX or Chrysler Pacifica. But again, those that find protruding bolsters uncomfortable, especially when entering or exiting a vehicle will appreciate the Rainier's seats.

The Rainier's Trailblazer roots show through pretty well everywhere you look. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

I suppose my only complaint with the interior overall is an all too common theme. I find that most often when a carmaker attempts to take a lesser model upmarket in options and price, something has to suffer. In the case of the Rainier, its Trailblazer roots show through pretty well everywhere you look, despite Buick's ardent attempt to give the Buick an original appearance. It's actually this attempt, highlighted by a unique pattern covering the majority of the vehicle's plastic trim surfaces, that cheapens the look overall. Ironically the GMC Envoy appears more upscale in interior styling.

Features such as rear seat passenger audio controls and GM's exceptionally good OnStar communications system help to appease any concerns though. Optional are personalized memory features for the outside rearview mirrors, power driver seat positions, climate control and stereo settings.