Overview & Reviews

Before Saturn was forced to call it a career after the 2009 GM bankruptcy affair, the Saturn Vue was one of the company's more endearing products. The Vue debuted in 2002 as GM's first home-grown entry in the car-based small-SUV segment, it recorded solid sales but not much critical acclaim. To compensate for the latter, Saturn made steady improvements and expanded the Vue's model lineup with the high-performance Red Line and hybrid Green Line variants. Though still not as polished as other top compact SUVs, the first-generation Vue remained attractive because of its low price and Saturn's famed no-hassle buying experience.

Introduced for 2008, the second-generation Saturn Vue improved upon the original's formula in many areas. This Vue shared much of its basic structure with the Antara, a small SUV produced by Opel, GM's Germany-based European division. While we usually roll our eyes at so-called badge engineering, this was one instance where we were flag-waving fans. The second-generation Vue was a remarkable improvement over its forebear, looking and feeling like a European-designed car that just happened to have Saturn badges.

However, Saturn's departure from the scene changes our view of the Vue. Given the first-generation Vue's spotty reliability record and the second-generation's European parts sourcing, we'd advise steering clear of used Vues unless you find an outstanding deal that leaves room for expected maintenance costs.

Most Recent Saturn Vue

The second-generation Saturn Vue was produced from 2008-'09. Compared to the earlier Vue, it was very similar in size, with a nearly identical wheelbase and marginally greater width and height. However, its exterior was constructed of steel body panels. Although the old Vue's plastic ones prevented unsightly dings, they also looked cheap and created huge panel gaps. The second-generation Vue's interior was also higher in quality with improved ergonomics.

The five-passenger compact Vue crossover was available in three trim levels: base XE, midgrade XR and sporty Red Line. A 2.4-liter inline-4 that produced 164 horsepower and 160 pound-feet of torque was standard on the XE and for '09, on the XR. It was connected to a four-speed automatic. An optional 3.5-liter V6 was available on the XE, and it sent 215 hp and 220 lb-ft through a six-speed automatic. A 3.6-liter V6 (also matched to a six-speed auto) that generated 257 hp and 248 lb-ft was standard on the XR for '08 and optional for '09. The Red Line was available only with the 3.6-liter V6. A manual-shift feature for the automatic transmission was standard on the Red Line and optional on the XR. Front- or all-wheel drive was available on each trim.

When compared to other compact SUVs, the Vue was on the small side, with only 56 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, almost 20 cubes less than some of its key competitors. Passenger space was good, however, with a reclining rear seat that offered decent legroom. Front seat comfort was good as well, although some found the bottom cushions a little short and the seats in general lacking lateral and lumbar support.

In reviews of the front-drive Saturn Vue XR, we found it to be a real competitor in the rapidly expanding compact-SUV market. Although others offered more space or a more entertaining driving experience, the Vue made up for it with European-inspired styling, a well-built and attractive cabin, composed handling and respectably strong engine choices.

Past Saturn Vue Models

The first-generation Saturn Vue was produced from 2002-'07 with plastic body panels (the second-generation has steel) and no specific trim levels. Though this Vue's interior was always second-rate, it was notably improved for the 2006 model year; models built previously were even more deficient in terms of interior materials quality and ergonomics. One should also note that Saturn offered a continuously variable transmission (CVT) from the 2002-'05 model years. Fitted to the 143-hp 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine, the CVT provided improved fuel mileage compared to the five-speed automatic. But long-term reliability was apparently an issue and Saturn discontinued it. It was replaced by a five-speed automatic as the optional transmission, while a five-speed manual remained standard equipment.

Finally, Vues built through the 2004 model year had a 181-hp, 3.0-liter V6 instead of the later Honda-engineered 3.5-liter V6 that was more refined and powerful with 250 hp. With this bigger engine came a few more features, including the option of all-wheel drive and the "Red Line" performance package.

In reviews, the first-generation Saturn Vue earned favorable commentary for its strong 3.5-liter V6 engine, roomy cabin, comfortable ride and dent-resistant plastic body panels. Noted downsides included below-average build quality, low-grade interior materials, vague steering and weak performance from the base four-cylinder engine.

User Reviews:

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  Nice, reliable vehicle - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By altomi - March 20 - 2:53 am

  A few issues, but nothing too serious. Had to replace strut (making noise again after replaced), drive-shaft bearing, wheel bearing. No issues with Honda engine or transmission. Performance is fabulous, but there are some minor issues, such as; wind noise, quite a bit of road noise, radio cuts out intermittently - although sound system sounds fantastic. Overall, I have been very happy with performance and comfort.

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  Worst nightmare possible - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Gary Moroz - March 17 - 8:26 am

  Our problems began after 4 months and less than 3000 miles when a p.s. hose burst on Jan 21/08. Dealer said it was probably water in the p.s. hose that froze and burst the line! No hoses available in N.A. so dealer finally stripped a new vehicle to get us going after a week. Second p.s. hose burst Feb. 13 causing smoke and fumes to enter our vehicle while driving! P.S. hose replaced again. Feb 21, 3rd hose ruptures, radiator is leaking antifreeze, transmission leaking oil and various electrical problems occurring. Still waiting on parts and without the use of our Vue for almost 2 months . Dealer does not know what is causing the problems. We are very very disappointed with this vehicle.

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  My dragonfly - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By megan - March 17 - 12:46 am

  This vehicle has been superb. Easy handling, comfortable. Easy to get into and out of vehicle. I like everything about this car. This is my first SUV, so I am still adjusting to the differences between my 2002 Saturn Car and this 2005 Vue.

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  Cool new VUE! - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By Nic - March 16 - 9:16 am

  I just got a V6 auto VUE and I love it! I had a small European car, and although it does not have a lot of the neat features of my old car, I still like the VUE. Great gas mileage, fun to drive, roomy, dealership is customer friendly! I was looking for a small afordable SUV as I convert over from a sedan to an SUV and this is perfect. I would recommend it for non-SUV drivers. My husband, who has a huge SUV, says its just "OK" and not much to it, but for me its great! Just enough! My good friend has an 06 and has not had one problem. She and her family (dog & kids) all enjoy the car. My dog, likes the space in the back where I can store her water for long trips!

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  A New Vue - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Cathy 77 - March 14 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed by Vue. The dealership was great. It made buying a new vehile an enjoyable experience

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  Saturn Hybrid - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Richard - March 13 - 3:33 pm

  I have had my hybrid now for 1000 miles, no significant complaints. There is a blind spot and I am trying to get use to using the big mirrors to overcome it, but may have to buy small stick on mirrors to overcome the flaw. The low rolling resistance tires perform well on highway; the ride isnt as good on local streets or unimproved roads. Gas mileage has been excellent so far, my first tank was 26.3, second 26.5 and after a short road trip, I averaged over 28.7.Still modifying my habits to maximize mileage and keep the "econ light" on. Seats could me more comfortable, power seat on pass side should be an option. Lumbar support adjustment is very good.

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  $6000 in repairs, stay away. GM makes bad cars - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By Fedup - March 12 - 3:57 pm

  Bought car with 20,000 miles. At 70,000, hybrid battery crapped out. At 90,000, engine needed to be replaced. At 107,000 transmission. At 110,000, fuel pump and now at 119,00, $1200 GM only alternator. Biggest headache and GM wont do a thing.

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  Given us Great Service - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By tizmeusee - March 11 - 3:18 am

  Owned it since new (June 02). It really has been quite reliable. Had a few accidents and it still handled great after the repairs. Honestly, you cant tell. Apart from normal wearables (tires, oil changes, tune ups, etc.), it has had a few expensive repairs over the years. Several faulty sensors had to be replaced to the tune of $500 a pop and the belt that MUST be done at 100K miles. Gas mileage was about 22 mpg in mixed city/hwy. We took a number of very long trips in it (family of four) and were quite comfortable.

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  New Old Review - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By Mike F - March 10 - 10:00 pm

  Im currently in the market to replace my Vue. I wanted to write this review to say how there really isnt anything on the market now that is better than this vehicle. If you compare what is important to me, Power, MPG, & Cargo Capacity, the Vue still has the crossover market of 2010 beat. Im sure I can find something that is more comfortable and looks better, but the MPG/HP out there is terrible. And most dont have the cargo room. Ill keep looking, but I think Im still ahead of the game 3.5 years later.

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  Pams Review - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Pamela E. Woodard - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I love my Saturn Vue. It is beautiful, fun to drive, reliable, and I get great service from Earvin and everyone at Saturn of Union City in Union City, Ga. My only complaint is that I would like better gas mileage, but speaking honestly 18 mpg in a city like aTlanta is not bad and I do get better than 25mpg on the highway. I was recently rear ended by a Tahoe, and the back of my Pumpkin (her name) looks so much better than the front of that Tahoe it is not funny. I plan for all my cars to be Saturns.