Overview & Reviews

The Saturn Relay was one of General Motors' minivans supposedly styled to have the look of a rough-and-tumble SUV rather than a plain-Jane family shuttle. Marketed as a "crossover sport van," the Relay had a longish nose, more aggressive styling and a roof rack to lend an SUV persona. However, the basic body structure and sliding doors remained true to the minivan segment's guiding principles.

The Saturn Relay was certainly family-friendly, with a folding third-row seat and optional 40GB digital media system that could store and play thousands of MP3 music files or a few dozen movies. Missing in action, though, were popular safety features like three-row side curtain airbags and a back-up camera.

Consumers never warmed to the Relay, however, and after just a few years on the market, Saturn pulled the van in favor of its new large crossover, the Outlook. As a choice for a used minivan, the Relay provides solid family transportation to be sure, and if price is a major issue, it will typically cost less than comparably equipped class leaders. However, more demanding shoppers who don't mind spending the extra cash will likely be happier with one of several other popular rivals.

Most Recent Saturn Relay

The midsize Saturn Relay minivan was produced from 2005-'07. Mechanically, it was related to GM's other vans, the Buick Terraza, Chevrolet Uplander and Pontiac Montana SV6. Originally, there were two trim levels simply named 2 and 3. Standard Relay 2 amenities included power accessories, air-conditioning, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, antilock brakes, first- and second-row side airbags and keyless entry. The Relay 3 added rear air-conditioning, a power driver seat, alloy wheels and upgraded interior storage.

Noteworthy options included the "PhatNoise" portable 40-gig digital media system, dual power-sliding side doors, a navigation system, rear park assist, leather seating, a sport-tuned suspension and a stability control system. For the van's final year, Saturn added a Relay 1 trim level that dropped some features in exchange for a cheaper price. The stability control system also became standard that year.

At first, all Saturn Relays came equipped with an underwhelming 3.5-liter V6 that made 200 horsepower and 220 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard. No other powertrain combinations were available, though buyers could opt for all-wheel drive. For 2006, a 3.9-liter V6 with 240 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque became optional on front-wheel-drive Relay 3 models. For the final year, Saturn made the big engine standard and discontinued all-wheel-drive availability.

The Relay could seat seven, and the folding third-row seat was split 50/50 for added versatility. A pleasing two-tone color treatment with faux wood accents dramatically brightened the cabin and lent an upscale ambience. Folding center trays between the first- and second-row seats were available, and an overhead rail system provided rear-seat access to storage and climate/entertainment controls.

When shopping for a Saturn Relay, we recommend trying to get a model with the 3.9-liter V6. This engine offered commendable performance around town and made quick work of merging and passing on freeways. The Relay's suspension was on the soft side, delivering a smooth ride and average handling for this class. Upgrading to the optional sport suspension provided tighter handling, though maneuverability in tight spaces was still compromised by the van's large turning radius.

User Reviews:

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  LEMON!!! Dont buy one of these cars - 2005 Saturn Relay
  By jamikey - December 25 - 12:00 pm

  I have had multiple problems with this car. My side paneling has peeled off 3 times now, the ABS system has had problems, and the remote sliding door has been replaced and the remote for it doesnt even work. That is just a few of the problems associated with the car. My latest problem is the engine blew in the car (yes, that is right!!) while in another state. They said that there was a bulletin about this potential problem, but since there hasnt been very many people with this problem, it wasnt a recall. The car has 26,000 miles on it. I have 2 children and do not feel safe driving this car. The child lock on rear door also locks on its own, trapping kids inside. Dangerous car!

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  Worst purchase of my life - 2005 Saturn Relay
  By neverdriveasaturn - April 2 - 9:06 am

  Nothing new, except proof of serious probs that should have resulted in recalls. Numerous prob with ABS and traction control systems going out--replaced sensors four times at a cost of $500+ twice(other two times were under part warranty).Had probs with rotors warping immediately after purchase, replaced at 35000 miles.Also had probs with cupping tires(on third set at 67000 miles).Warped tire rods. Auto door opener stopped working.Lever to fold 3rd broke.Depreciation!Traded this one in last week when we were upside down on the loan by $4000 because it was too costly to keep.Our cost to own this one for 3.5 yrs-over $40,000(purchase of $28000 and the rest in repairs, not incl. gas at 20mpg)