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:

• 

  Great looks, bad deal - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Thwarted Saturnite - October 1 - 10:00 am

  The appearance of the VUE is very nice, but dont let that fool you. There are too many "bugs" in this car that have not been addressed by Saturn. Ive had this car almost 2 years and Ive had "Warranty" repairs at least 20 times. Perhaps my vehicle is a lemon, but others that Ive test driven havent been much better. These vehicles have a front end problem that causes squeaking and rattling. Most drivers have said that it feels as if the front end is about to collapse. Overall the ride is not smooth, it feels like a old pickup. The factory radio system is below average. Reception is horrible. The air conditioner blower does not reach the back seat

• 

  So far so good! - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Buggs - September 22 - 3:03 pm

  I purchased the saturn after my FIL rented a 08 vue and hit a Large Buck in WI. He an 2 others WALKED away from the accident. I had driven a Lexus before and loved it, but did not want to part with 40K for a 330 this time. 6+ months later I still and very happy, I dorve the Honda CRV (2009 made and shipped from Japan...NOT an option) and looked at plenty of other options, but went with the Vue due to my FIL. The price was great and I know my kids and myself are safe. I am a small girl so interior space is not a problem. All and all I am happy, any problems have been addressed by my local dealer....Nothing major, just minor things.

• 

  Buyers remorse - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Heidi - September 20 - 6:30 pm

  It only took me 2 days to realize I had made a very bad choice. I was really excited to get an suv and upgrade from my 2005 mazda 6. When I bought it the visor buzzed so I took it back in and they politely fixed it and now the whole car buzzes. I drive down the road banging the roof of the car so that the buzzing will stop. The windshield is so windy it sounds like it isnt secure. The inside also looks very cheap. I am very disappointed and have been searching for a new suv ever since.

• 

  Cant beat it for the price! - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By DaddyO - September 18 - 5:03 pm

  I was looking for cheap but dependable. QVC had a special no obligation coupon for $1,000 off any Saturn, + April was truck month + another special = a very good deal on a 4 cyl, maual, with CD, powr moon roof, power windows, and ABS. My insurance went down! Would have loved a manual but with 6 cyl, but I also like the great mileage. Ill live. A great buy for the money, no complaints, I can even fit 8 long boards in the car and close the back!

• 

  Great value and performance! - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By jthanan - September 16 - 9:53 am

  Bought the VUE for its utility and it hasnt let me down. With the back seats and front passenger seat folded down I can haul the equipment for my entire band! Have had the truck for almost a year and put about 20K miles on it and havent had a single problem. Has made multiple trips Wisconsin-South Florida with no problems. Averages about 20mpg in the city and around 25-26mpg highway. The VUE is also great for towing, I pull a 1500 pound fishing boat with it and the VUE takes it all in stride.

• 

  Near perfect ride - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By lrigemag - September 13 - 7:56 am

  I never had a car buying experiance as pleasant as buying my Saturn VUE. I left feeling like I finally got what I wanted, paid what I wanted, and was treated the way I wanted for the first time. It was apparent that they listened to me, because everything that was important for me to have is in my VUE now. All the safety features that will make me feel secure when out and about with my loved ones on the road.

• 

  Exquisite Machine - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By MsJay39 - September 11 - 10:00 am

  Im very please with this vehicle so far. It handles with ease and flows smoothly across the highway with expertise. The bodystyle is what peaked my interest in this SUV. I didnt want a large SUV, I just wanted to sit up high enough to view the road and all blind spots clearly. This vehicle meets and exceeds my expectations.

• 

  Good car but not satisfy - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By VUE owner - September 3 - 10:00 am

  Love everything of the car and purchasing experence. Except for these: 1. carpet comes loose 2. Gas gauge shows wrong amount 3. Side of the panel makes a clicking sound when push 4. left fog light not secure. 5. The COMP on the mirror auto turns back on (this might be how it is supposed to work, but the problem is I asked the technicians, sales persons and 800 support number and nobody knows if its that way or something wrong.) I sold my old SL1 which had almost 100k. I know they are great cars just not sure if they rush out the VUE that cause the problems.

• 

  unique car! - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By Mark12 - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Unique looks, wonderful, functional and spacy interior. Excellent powertrain, unbelievable steering. You will love this car. The interior is, of course, plastic and cheap, but the car is cheap, so dont expect leather, chrome and wood. Unlike other SUV manufacturers, Saturn guys thought it makes more sense to give you folded front seat and cargo organizer instead of a folding picnic table that comes with CR-V. And, with AWD V6, everything you need is in standard.

• 

  SATURN IS A JOKE! - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Brandi - September 1 - 2:20 am

  I just paid cash for what I thought was a reliable and "responsable" vehicle. 3 DAYS after i bought the car the transmission went completly out!! Ive contacted the Saturn company, the Warranty company and the dealer I bought from. Saturn says they are no longer rebuilding that transmission and are not at this time doing anythig for thier drivers. The warranty company tells me to find a transmission shop who will rebuild it for me (NO ONE WILL IVE CALLED!) and they are right now taking the Saturn Vue OUT of thier warranties!! I am trying to get the dealer to back me out of the deal and give me my money back! Saturn knows theyve screwed up and are not doing anything to make it right!!