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 - 2003 Saturn VUE
By gt95 - April 9 - 10:00 amFor my first new vehicle it has been a pleasant experience all around. The people at the dealership have been very helpful. The no haggle on price takes away the adversity. The vehicle is priced right to be a great value. It has the latest inovations including electronic steering. I feel confident that if I keep up on regular maintenance the car will last a long time. The back seat has plenty of room.
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My Cypress Saturn - 2006 Saturn VUE
By Saturn Cypress - April 7 - 11:40 pmThis is my second VUE. It is more than I expected in a mid-sized SUV. It is easy to get in and out of. Very roomy, lots of cargo space. I and my husband thoroughly enjoy driving this vehicle and plan to keep it for a number of years unless Saturn improves on this model substantially. Saturn has a quality, classic vehicle and their customer service is to be envied by other auto makers and dealerships. Ask any Saturn owner!
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Very Impressed...but waiting! - 2004 Saturn VUE
By Preacher Man - April 5 - 10:00 amThis is my 3rd Saturn. Love the looks... Thrilled about the safety features.I received 3750 off of the price of the car and that made it well worth it. Love the Honda engine and transmission. The exterior looks are very stylish. Need seperate trip along with odometer that can be read at the same time. Bumpers need to be the same color. Do not like the exhaust showing in the rear. Overall an excellent vehicle, but I will wait and see how it all turns out! I am hoping that after one to two years this vehicle will be very reliable and trust worthy. I am loyal to Saturn.
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Best SUV for the money (IMO) - 2004 Saturn VUE
By Hockey Crazed - April 5 - 10:00 amAfter 4 months, no major complaints. Got the 4cyl, 5 speed manual with Sport Plus package (power everything, sunroof, alloy wheels, compass, RKE) all under $15K. Ample power and accel. with the 5 speed. Traded off getting the V6 in order to have a manual shift. Getting approx 400 miles per tank and about 26-28MPG. Can easily carry 2 hockey players (incl. a goalie) and their equip with the rear split seat folded down. My wife says the rear seats and legroom are more spacious than her Subaru Forester. Love the exterior looks though I would prefer to have foglamps. Cant wait to upgrade the looks by having roof rails, mud flaps, front grill and side step bars
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Reba The Rabbit - 2004 Saturn VUE
By MWalsh - April 5 - 10:00 amWe are very happy with our vehicle. Before we retired, we drove 160 miles a day, to and from work. Reba handled very good on Rt.#95, and we get very good mileage. We found no problem with the steering, in fact we love the easy steering. We actually bought the car in 2002, the first year it was out, right off the showroom floor! They have made some improvements since then, all for the better! We are looking forward to seeing their new "Relay". It looks beautiful. Reba is in retirement with us right now and doesnt get used that often, and she looks as good as new! Sincerely, M. Walsh
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Pleasant Surprises! - 2006 Saturn VUE
By Jackie - April 4 - 11:33 pmSurprised performance and reliability. Didnt even want to look at the car when searching, but tried it and fell in love. Much like any car, it had a few issues, RT strut tower clunking, dealer fixed. At 49K torque converter went out, dealer fixed. Now I have annoying squeeking noises from tire areas. Volume down button on steering wheel changes channel, not sound. Road and wind noise from frt passenger door. Replaced tires rather quickly..less than 20K miles. Overall, love the performance and the look. Like it way better than 2005 models. Had some flaws, but great car. Dealer great at covering warranty issues. I love the car. First car I bought brand new and will run it to the ground.
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I hate this car! - 2002 Saturn VUE
By disappointed - April 3 - 3:06 pmWorst car I have ever owned! I bought this car in 06 and have had problems ever since! Within a week of getting it, it went the shop for a mouth and a half. and I have had problems ever since. Wish I could trade it in instead of putting more money in it but cant afford either one right now. I really dislike this car!
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Best value - 2005 Saturn VUE
By alex san juan - April 2 - 3:16 amI chose the Saturn Vue because of its dent proof features because Im tired of having those irritating small dents that nobody knows who did it. Secondly, it is very quick, because of its 250hp honda engine. I just dont know why almost all the reviews are kinda negative. The Vue can easily beat most of the SUVs on the road 0-60 or quarter mile...best mileage too for a V6.
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My VUE Experience - 2006 Saturn VUE
By redvue - April 1 - 12:43 pmThis SUV is very reliable! Very good quality!, The only problem I have had was my battery died. This is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned!
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Built for the style conscious consumer - 2005 Saturn VUE
By Sherry - April 1 - 7:26 amA great overall value, dependable and reliable, at a very fair price for the quality. Its not intended to be, nor is it, a luxury ride, but it is fine for he price I paid. Highly recommend this one, as this is my 3rd Saturn vehicle
