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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  time will tell - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By marc - August 14 - 10:16 pm

  Our 2008 Vue has the 3.5L motor, most have 3.6L or 2.4L, anyways it has lots of power and excellent braking and handling. It was a pleasure to drive last winter. We have experienced a few problems so far but nothing major. The seats stain very easily (even water left a mark),glove box light stays on when closed unless you slam it shut. Like I said nothing major. Only has 23k on it in a year and a half so time will tell if it holds up. The zero percent financing was the deal sealer.

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  2007 Saturn VUE 4 cylinder - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By Jodi - August 14 - 8:46 pm

  We bought the VUE after driving a Plymouth Vibe for 11 months. Our decision to purchase the VUE came after trying to get home during a bad snowstorm with the Vibe. The VUE is the most safe, reliable car I have ever driven in the snow and ice and rain.

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  I love it - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By jamadel - August 13 - 6:20 am

  I absoulutly love this car. I have had if for 3 1/2 months and have over 11,000 miles on the car and not a single problem. I went from a small car with 300,000 and was looking for something a bit bigger and more comfortable to drive in traffic and I found it in the VUE. We shopped for 6 months test driving all the cars in its class, and for comfort, fun to drive and price the VUE was the only choice. We have 5 cars in our household and the VUE is the car of choice for all to drive. We love it!

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  love our new Saturn VUE - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Kewlmom44 - August 12 - 2:00 am

  We already had a Saturn SL2, so when it came time to buy an SUV we knew right away that the VUE was the one to get. We have only had it for 1 month, but we love it. The people at the dealership are extremely friendly and helpful. The VUE handles extremely well.

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  one problem after another - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By ajacs - August 12 - 2:00 am

  Have 30,000 miles. Needed a clutch the first week, then motor mounts, then stearing problems. Had zone in and they were no help. Just had steering noise corrected in front end then appeared in steering column, came back 3 days after repair. Hood release cable broke. Does not handle well on a windy day and if a truck passes you it rocks and the wheel turns in your hands.

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  america can do it - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By a herman - August 2 - 10:00 am

  Still wanted to purchase an American car ... even thought it has a Honda engine. Car rides very well and the fit and finish are superb. Performance for a six is spectacular and the gas economy is good ... if not great. It reaaly is fun to drive. My only complaint is simple. GM should have spent some more money on the interior. The arm rests are to small and the car lacks overhead handles. It is a shame. These small cheapies ruin a perfect score

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  04 vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By rw3025 - August 2 - 10:00 am

  Good ride & handling. Comfortable & peppy. Could use more storage in console area

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  Never Again - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By Don - July 31 - 5:03 pm

  Bought brand new in 2007, absolutely worst car I have ever owned. Obvious electrical problems, speakers would work intermittently, dashboard lights flashed off and on. Dealer told me they could find nothing wrong. Shifting not smooth at all. Gas mileage barely 20 in the city, 22 HWY. Manifold leak at 12,000 miles. AC Compressor out at 16,000 miles. This car bears truth to the saying "you get what you pay for". Inexpensive SUV, and shows it. After the compressor went out, I decided I didnt want to see what would happen once the warranty expired at 36,000 miles, and traded it in for a Nissan Xterra. Horrible trade in value. Know 2 other people who own one and not happy either.

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  Tire size causes some problems - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By Terry - July 27 - 2:13 pm

  The only problem Ive had with the VUE is replacement tires! The tires that came with the VUE dont perform well in wet weather and if it snows they are terrible, and I have all wheel drive. If you are putting 17 inch wheels on a vehicle at least have a selection of tires to buy. The Bridgestones that came with the vechicle are not a good fit!

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  V6 VUE ... affair to remember - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By gehe - July 24 - 2:00 am

  -Thoroughly researched a new vehicle and never considered a Saturn. Now I am a Saturn fan and VUE fan. (Even toured the factory in Spring Hill, TN) -It has been everything I thought it would be and more. Each trip feels like a treat. -The V6 is smooth and powerful. The AWD should read AWESOME DRIVE. -The step in height is "butt" perfect. You just slide in side ways. No ups and downs. The tinted windows look crystal clear viewed from within. The Cruise Control is intelligent and allows for acceleration and braking without resetting. -The electric steering is the best. Heavier at high speeds and finger light at low. -Go buy one !!