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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  Happy VUE Owner - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By JEK - June 14 - 10:00 pm

  Finally I have a car that is like an SUV but doesnt drink gas like an SUV. Handles is all weather (I travel for work and drive in bad weather summer and winter.)I feel safe in my VUE no matter what. I never had a problem except for the one recall item which was taken care of by the dealership with no problem. In fact I just bought another VUE, a 2006, and Im sure this one will perform just as well.

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  06 VUE FWD - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Alan - June 14 - 8:00 am

  Have owned it for two years now. Ive done all the oil and filter changes myself so other than a few tire rotations, cost to maintain has been very low. Front end started to rumble at 24k, so I has that taken care of at the dealership under warranty, and they said it was the top strut mounts and front disc brake pins. Most of the noise is gone. Drives great, starts up everytime, lots of power, good gas mileage considering the power. I have not experienced the fit and finish problems others have had, but I dont deny they might be there. Hey, its plastic. It good for highway trips except I wish the bottom seat cushions were bigger (longer) with more thigh support.

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  Stylish new Vue - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Rich - May 31 - 5:20 pm

  I bought a 2008 Vue XE 4cyl during the Presidents day weekend sale. Traded in a reliable, fast Passat Wagon - so I was looking for something fun to drive, practical, took regular fuel, and got better mpg than the Passat. Most of my driving is around town with occasional slight hills. The tradeoff in power for the economy of the 4cyl is worth it! We have slight hills in San Diego & I just use the gear hold feature - does OK! Wish it had the 6spd auto from the Malibu w/ the same engine. Interior is awesome - so much better than the Japanese competitors. Lined large compartments all over! Got both premium packages, incl heated seats. Only 1000 miles, average 22 mpg.

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  Minus the Rattles...a Good Vehicle - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Vue Driver - May 31 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car late in 2003 and have 31k miles on it. I love the powerful engine. It was a real selling point for me. I also love all the options the car has for the price. The AWD is AWESOME in snowy weather. If it didnt make so many weird noises, I wouldnt have anything to complain about.

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  The greatest little cars in America - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By lyives - May 31 - 10:00 am

  This saturn is one of the best they have made. A great little all around car,very easy to get in and out of for all ages and agilities. Bonus is lots of space in the back and extra extra space with the back seats folded up. A wonderfu cross between a sedan and an SUV...also love their service!

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  LOVING this vehicle!! - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By cinnamon1 - May 31 - 10:00 am

  This is my first SUV and I absolutely love it!! It handles GREAT, gets terrific gas mileage, is VERY comfortable and roomy and my kids LOVE it! I get a lot of compliments on the sleek look (bought the black with tan interior). The price absolutely could not be beat! Terrific value for a great vehicle!

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  A View Of A Vue - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By view of a vue - May 30 - 3:40 pm

  I think this is a very underrated automobile. In comparing to similar size vechiles the Vue is clearly the best looking . The most supriseing feature to me is the ride comfort. The ride and handling are both great! This is a great buy.

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  Too many visits to dealership - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Lesa - May 29 - 11:16 am

  31,000 miles and has been at the dealership several times with the same issue, transmission, torque converter, or they say. Corporate says that the problem is normal for the Vue. If normal then would be there from day 1. Still rattling noise and hesitations after past last gear. Would never own another Saturn again. Zipping noise when turning steering wheel. Dealer says normal for car again.

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  Golden Vue for You! - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By SDConnors - May 28 - 9:23 pm

  The re-designed Saturn 2008 is gorgeous! We bought Metallic Gold w 3.5 V6 AWD StabiliTrak features vs. HyBrid (V4 2.2, 2WD) economy. Safety for family with Front/Side curtain AirBags, 4 Disc Brakes w ABS, StabiliTrak, AWD, and OnStar feeling of security, monitoring sensors and available at a touch to assist with lockouts, diagnostics, road assist or emergencies. German engineering and looks make this a solid Winner, designed by Saturns Euro Division in Germany. A+

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  Dont Pass it up - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By magick man - May 27 - 1:13 pm

  My wife and I had a 02 Blazer and 06 Escape and traded them both in for the 07 Vue V6. We were torn on whether to get the Hybrid or the V6. We chose the v6 because we do a lot of traveling, ant the extra horse power is needed for passing. We just made a 6 hour trip with 3 adults 1 child and a car seat in the back, and it was a comfortable ride. I will definetely by another Saturn. Hopefully next time we could afford the roomier outlook. My wife throws a fit if she doesnt get to drive it to work.