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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  uncomfortable seats - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By marta Cano - February 19 - 12:53 pm

  The person who designed the drivers seat did not sit in it for long periods of time. I drive 3 hrs everyday and at the end of the day have severe back pain, and at the end of the week I have back pain and neck pain. I told this to a coworker who also owns a Saturn and drives almost as much as I do and his answer was " yes, their seats are not comfortable". My son in law owns an ION and has the same complaint about "their seats are uncomfortable".

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  HAD MY DOUBTS..BUT IM FINE NOW!! - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By HRP53 - February 19 - 10:00 am

  GREAT PICK UP AND HANDLING.GOOD FUEL ECONOMY,SPACIOUS INSIDE, NICE OUTSIDE DESIGN. PLASTIC SIDE PANELS AND DOORS SAVE ON PARKING LOT DENTS AND YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN!! I HAVE AWD BUT I THINK FRONT WHEEL DRIVE WOULD HAVE BEEN ENOUGH. HOW OFTEN DO YOU NEED AWD?

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  Perfect Fit - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By EmmasMom - February 17 - 12:50 pm

  Originally, I was not even considering the Vue since I get a Dodge discount because of family members working there. I was going to get a Nitro. But I decided to go try out the Saturn and boy am I glad I did. As soon as I saw them up close and the great interior I was hooked. It has great lines and very fun to drive. I tried the 4 and the 6. I went with the 4 for the increased fuel economy and for me its fine. I am no speed demon. But the 6 would have been nice but not worth the increased cost to me personally.

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  Not a Good First Impression - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By nothappy - February 15 - 11:16 pm

  I have owned my Vue for less than a month and am not very happy. The first day we bought the Vue we went to activate the OnStar and the button pushed into the ceiling and had to be replaced. It took them 3 weeks to fix it because they could not get the part. Finally after my third visit they took the part off another Vue I hate the door handle on the passenger door it sticks if pulled from the side. The dealer told us it is made that way and that we just need to pull the handle straight out and not from the side to avoid it from sticking (great design there). There is no storage I have to leave my childs stroller at home if I want to carry any other items. I miss my Honda.

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  Better than a Honda,Bigger than a Subaru - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Love my Saturn Vue - February 14 - 6:43 pm

  I have only owned my Saturn Vue for one month, but I can tell you that I am very satisfied with my vehicle overall. As others, I researched the Honda CRV, Toyota RAV, and even the Nissan Rogue. This vehicle is much more stylish then the Honda, and the price is way better than the RAV. The Nissan Rogue had too bad of a blind spot. The Saturn has it all, looks, style, comfort, room, and the gas mileage is not too too bad. I bought the 4 cylinder and it gets me where I need to go in ample time. If I want to pass someone, I can pass someone with ease. You will love how the Saturn holds the road. My insurance went down $33/6 months compared to my 05 Toyota Corolla; Saturn crash rating better!

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  Love the VUE! - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By P J Wolf - February 12 - 4:56 pm

  After having owned several large SUVs (Ford Bronco V8, for example), the switch to a smaller, more nimble and economical vehicle is difficult to describe. I like the VUEs handling, fuel economy, carrying capacity and overall appearance. Im buying one for my daughter for safety and handling reasons.

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  Solid and Fun, One quick little SUV - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By zules - February 10 - 8:33 am

  The Saturn VUE with the 3.5 liter V6 has much more power and response than I expected. It is fun to drive and hugs the road. I took it on a trip from Southern California to Oregon and it was really comfortable to drive. The only thing that was a bit of an annoyance was that the seats are a bit narrow and the arm rests are too close.

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  Very Nice SUV - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Ronbo - February 10 - 3:40 am

  We are first time Saturn owners. The car is still brand new and has been flawless so far. We really like the dent-resistant panels and this is what convinced us to buy our first Saturn. The Honda engine is also a big plus. It is very nimble and quick and the mileage is good. We like it a lot.

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  Do not buy a Vue - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Hfuller - February 5 - 7:23 pm

  Purchasing my 06 Saturn vue was the worst mistake I have ever made. Since purchase I have had my vue in the shop a total of 6 times for the same problem-clunking noises in the front and back tires. A total of around $8000.00 in cost. Since it is out of warranty, Saturn corporate refuses to lend any assistance. Struts have been replaced twice ($800), wheel differential has been replaced twic (total of $5000), wheel bearing replaced, rotors replaced-it goes on and on. Saturn corporate will no longer return our calls. It has been a nightmare-I am going to go broke driving this car. Please-do not purchase a Saturn vue-

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  Fantastic value - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By jkelly in PA - February 1 - 9:26 am

  The beauty of the interior is in its utter simplicity. My VUE has proven to be amazingly utilitarian and wonderfully proportioned for its class. The 6 cyl is peppy and smooth, and it handles like a sporty car! The exterior style is just right. Im a little disappointed they made the grille styling so car-like on the new models, but I would buy another one without hesitation!