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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Saturn VUE, a top quality SUV - 2004 Saturn VUE
By David Knight - February 18 - 10:00 amMy new Saturn Vue combines comfort, build quality and economy (yes, the interior is not fancy yet the materials are of excellent quality and the appointments are well thought out.) In a recent trip from Virginia to Massachusetts we achieved nearly 30 mpg. Its not a Maseratti on the get aways but power with the manual 5-speed is totally adequate. Apparently steering on the 04 has been improved. Mine is very precise.
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Fun. No complaints. - 2003 Saturn VUE
By doubleeeee - February 18 - 10:00 am17000 miles and happier now than when I first brought it home. No real issues. The Vue handles nice, is comfortable, reasonably priced, plenty of cargo room and very reliable so far. In summary.. I have NO complaints.
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My Vue View - 2008 Saturn VUE
By My Vue View - February 17 - 6:46 amHave only driven for 500 miles but realize the 4 speed auto isnt great. It seems to bog down when traveling between 45-55 mph, where I spend most of my time driving around town. So I have to always decide whether to live with it or use the manual feature (which is fun but defeats the purpose of an auto). I think a 5 or 6 speed with the 4 cylinder would be better. Also cant figure out why they put a 12V outlet in the rear but only have one up front...and its in the console?! Even my 97 Explorer had two up front and in the front dash. Need at least one in the dash (radar detector) and keep one in console for cell phone. Otherwise love the look, drive, ride, and fit and finish.
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Karens yellow VUE - 2004 Saturn VUE
By karenLT - February 11 - 10:00 amI am very happy with my Saturn Vue, V6 AWD. I bought it in Florida, moved to Wisconsin and drove it in snow there, and liked the way it handled. Was easier and better to drive in the snow than my husbands Ford Truck. Very peppy, never have problems with it.
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petes review of my 2004 saturn - 2004 Saturn VUE
By pete h. - February 11 - 10:00 ami am a new saturn owner and i am impressed with the power of the 4 cyl. i travel to and from the mountains in pa at least twice a week and i like the comfort and the pickup. i am very happy with the gas mileage
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Saturn Vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
By Lou T. - February 11 - 10:00 amafter driving a Dodge Durango for many years I was skeptical about the vue, however it turns out that it is a very capable vehicle! I am 65" and have no trouble getting in or out of this vehicle,it is very comfortable,easy to drive/park/manuver,gets good milage and has a lot of nice features,I would recomend(and have)this vehicle to anyone who is looking for a good all- around suv.
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Outstanding SUV - 2008 Saturn VUE
By Harry - February 7 - 2:30 pmI purchased a 2008 Saturn Vue with the 3.5 V-6 AWD. I had looked at other SUVs but after test driving this vehicle, there was no question that I would purchase it. I was impressed with the V-6 Engine power and the overall construction of the vehicle. The interior design and comfort is incredible. The vehicle I purchased has the electric heated seats and heated exterior mirrors. They work flawlessly in the cold Minnesota weather. I was also impressed with the OnStar and hands free phone system. My opinion is that this is a great vehicle for the money and would recommend it to anyone looking for a great SUV.
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Best of all worlds - 2003 Saturn VUE
By entendrentendre - January 29 - 10:00 amIve only had this car for about 7 weeks, but so far so good. This car hit the mark on size,comfort, features, performance,safety and price. Plus you cannot beat the Saturn sales experience! This is a station wagon with out the frump factor! The 5 spd is a blast to drive and is very smooth. Ive owned mostly manuals in my nearly 25 years of driving. The four is very strong and smooth and loves to rev! I have not noticed any performance degrade when loaded with passengers and cargo. The mileage is good as well upper 20s in mixed driving. Idles so smooth and quite I have to check the tach at stop signs and lights to be certain I have not stalled.
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Best medium SUV made...period... - 2003 Saturn VUE
By Flazund - January 24 - 10:00 amEverything abot this vehicle has been stellar. Best of all, with V6 and AWD I still get 25 mpg hwy! Reliability, comfort, handling, economy, everything excellent. Also, one of the roomiest of its class. Dealing with the dealership and service department is not the normal take a number and wait process. will probably never go back to the tradition way of buying cars and service. Other manufacturers need to take a lesson from Saturn!!!
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Beautiful piece of machinery - 2008 Saturn VUE
By Alex - January 24 - 1:23 amA very nice and responsive car with 6 speed auto and 3.6 L smooth GM engine. Styling is good and turns peoples heads for sure. Two disadvantages though -- rough ride and engine noise starting from 2.5-3,000 RPM.
