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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  It never let me down! - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By Twistedsister - May 4 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my 2005 Saturn new in July 2005. I loved it until the day it died this past October in a car accident. I loved this car. I average 25K a year on my vehicle, so it had 125000 miles on it. I changed to synthetic oil around 95K and increased my mpg to 30 on highway, 26 or so in city. I loved this car. It always started, drove well, loved the convenience of the trunk/back seats that lie down flat. Went through two sets of tires and had rotors turned at 110K. I never had it in the shop for repairs other than maintenance issues. I loved this car. My only complaint was the road noise/ weather stripping was bad. It allowed dust to come in and it was a bit noisy.

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  Enjoying My Vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By VueAWDv6 - May 1 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has been fun to drive and made snow not a worry. I found that this car handles great in all weather and with the V6 it has the power that I wouldnÂ’t expect out of an SUV. The options that where standard on the V6 made this and easy purchase and I didnÂ’t walk away feeling I had any regrets. I would recommend this car to all those people looking for a little of everything.

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  Dont buy.. Too many Suspension Problems - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By sunnibear - April 27 - 10:00 am

  Within 4 days of buying has to go into the shop for the front suspension. fixed broken tork bar but didnt fix problem took in in again one day later said could not find problem and that I had 36,000 miles on warranty so not to worry about it. Four days after that took it in again this time broken strut mount... it has now been 2 months and it is in the shop again Whole new front suspension...was told that they have been replacing alot of them

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  Redline Vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Sleepe64 - April 27 - 10:00 am

  Unbelivable power, acclerates like a sports car! great road feel but alittle harsh on bumpy roads. Nice size and works well for my wifes needs, as a kid hauler. Interior materials are kinda cheesy. Exterior stlye is like nothing else, period. Honda produced 250hp 3.5 V6 and 5speed auto tranny are smooth, GM needs to pay attenion here. By and large their front driver sixs are junk.

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  2004 Redline VUE - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Peabo - April 27 - 10:00 am

  We searched many months for the perfect, loaded, and new SUV under $26000 and we found it Saturn VUE Redline. The Redline VUE is really a head turner. Its like having a smooth riding sports cars that is quick, handles great, and gets good gas milage. At the same time it seats 5 people comfortably and has plenty of cargo room. We get tons of compliments on the styling and the ~$1800 upgrade for the Redline is well worth it. If you buy the Redline, get ready the the attention it draws.

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  2005 Red Line VUE - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By Dave Tucker - April 20 - 2:43 pm

  We bought the VUE in January and have had no problems. This is the Red Line, so it is loaded. We have 18 inch wheels on it, and 6 speaker sound. Power moonroof. The six cylinder engine is supplied by Honda, along with the drive train. For the size of the car and 250 horses, it gets up and moves! Saturn customer service has been excellent since the purchase. We can call them with any questions regarding the car, and they are actually there to give real time answers. Bottom line, we are happy campers!

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  Not bad, but not for the long run - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By Joe - April 20 - 10:00 am

  I broke one of my cardinal rules and bought a new vehicle in its first model year. Ive paid for that. Weve had the standard 02 Vue problems (AC condensation ruining the carpet on the passenger side, rear wiper fluid everywhere but on the glass) and a few new ones (inaccurate fuel gauge-Shell gas?) but overall it has been fairly reliable. Its just too small for more than 4 people, whether they are infants or adults. Havent tested the legedary Saturn safety features (and hope I dont have too) but cant help feeling I paid too much for what I got.

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  Unbeatable quality and style - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Sheila Ward - April 20 - 7:30 am

  Styling of my 2008 onyx VUE turns head. The after purchase leather package for the interior makes it even more stunning! I love the OnStar and XM radio. My VUE is a joy to drive in town and on the highway. I make long trips each month and have been thrilled with the smooth ride, handling and max gas mileage. I get max mileage driving in town. Dash panel is easy to see, access and operate while driving. On steering wheel dials make it even easier. The reasons I purchased the VUE - quality craftsmanship, safety, gas mileage, cargo space and styling have been proven as I own and drive the car. Experience with my Saturn dealership has been excellent. I recommend the VUE to all!

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  Good bang for the buck - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By Vueguy - April 19 - 1:16 am

  Good combination of price, power, features, and quality. I would have never dreamed of owning a Saturn until I heard this model was equipped with a 250hp Honda engine. Merging onto freeways is a breeze and the 250 hp has gotten me out of some bad snow drifts.

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  A doom with a vue - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By brian - April 16 - 2:26 pm

  Should have been and still be recalled due to computer failures in all or most vues sold. Poor repair info and no gm dealer is willing to touch it. Power steering fails and makes it like driving a tank. Poor info for self repair work. Recall these cars.