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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  A fun SUV to drive - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Molly A - April 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought this SUV to tow behind my 36ft Motorhome. It was between the Vue and the Honda CRV. I wanted a car that I didnt need to modify the transmission to tow it It was a pleasent experience to deal with Saturn. There no hassel was a breath of fresh air. As I bought the Vue the end of July I had to take it from dealers stock. The one I wanted my dealer didnt have so they looked throughout the 6 sate reagon they found me mine in Maine. They went out of there way to make sure I was completly satified. This is the way all car buying should be and the rest of the car dealers could take a lesson from Saturn.

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  This vehicle has surprised me!! - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By taar - April 15 - 10:00 am

  Its been about 11 months now with this SUV. The silky smooth Honda engine and tranny is a must have! I now have 30000 miles on this puppy with absolutely no problems.

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  Smooth and Fun - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By starrdancerr512 - April 15 - 10:00 am

  I love my Vue! Surfing the net for my new car was the very rewarding. The Vue has a very smooth ride which is also enhanced by the CVT transmission. The electric steering is one of reliability and a great performer. My reason for choosing a Vue is the CVT transmission, the electric steering, the Hepa air filter, the polymer body, the excellent bridgestone tires. Plenty of room inside the vehicle. It is a very fun vehicle to drive in the sunroof, the tinted windows, It has a very classy yet rugged look to it. Its a must drive SUV.

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  Vue to a Tow - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By DrDave654 - April 15 - 10:00 am

  The Vue has the Honda 3.5 and Honda Transmission in it The engine is very powerful and not only has 250 hp and has great torque but is also rated as a ULEV ( Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) It gets good gas mileage even when towing a camping trailer. ( I do reccomend a Tramsmission cooler be installed) Very good driveability and steering. Tows the trailer without effort. visability is very good, and once you get use to the heated seats it is hard to do without them We have a 2003 Saturn L300 with the heated seats. Still have it as well. Compared it to several vehicles before buying. Saturn of Concord is fantastic to deal with.

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  Great other than few issues - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Robert Simmons - April 8 - 8:30 am

  This is my first Saturn. Has great response,handling on curves,electric power steering does the job. Instrumentation is appealing to the eyes. Steering wheel control of radio, cruise control in good location.

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  Honda Engine great, Rest of car JUNK!! - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By rugby209 - April 5 - 10:30 pm

  Ive had 3 Saturns, this one being the most recent and this will be the last time I buy Saturns again. I originally looked at the reviews and everyone said it was a great SUV with a Honda engine and transmission. The reviews were right about the transmission and engine but everything else is flawed. Its been in the shop 11 times since weve owned it. Steering column broke, left front ABS sensor broke, when its cold out it makes horrible grinding noise when you hit bumps (which the dealer said was normal), hazard light fell into dash etc, etc. I should have bought a REAL Honda.

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  Great car - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By rona - April 3 - 10:00 am

  Before I bought my car I looked at the reviews from about 20 other people and I have to tell you, I just love this car. It is so comfortable and I had Saturn put a moonroof in and it was the best thing I ever did. This car gets good gas mileage, is comfortable, and I love the OnStar. My whole buying experience was amazing and I could not be happier.

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  Will hit 200K Next month - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By uppity - April 2 - 8:41 am

  This has been a wonderful car. Ive kept it well maintained so repairs have been minimal. Only things needing repair have been something related to the front end and a sensor of some kind. Repairs were so long ago I dont really remember. Have replaced brakes, battery and tires but I consider those part of maintenance. Still on the original exhaust system and clutch. Only redid the brakes once. I.can only hope my next car is this reliable.

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  Love this car!!! - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Joe vue now - April 1 - 10:00 am

  My 2001 honda civic only wishes it could be as nice as this vehicle. Its sooooo nice and fun to drive!!! My old room mate had a Honda C rv- Like this one better!

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  Redline VUE is a Head Turner - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By 06vueredline - March 28 - 3:26 pm

  I recently traded my 2004 VUE V6, for the new and improved 2006 VUE V6. This time I opted for the Redline version. The 18-inch wheels, wide tires, and tuned sport suspension offer a huge improvement in handling to compliment the 250hp V6 under the hood. In addition, the much needed interior refinements, along with firm bolstered sport seats, and aggressive exterior styling make this vehicle unique, fun, and versatile.