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:
Showing 1581 through 1590 of 1,730.00-
Our third Saturn - 2008 Saturn VUE
By Jeff H. - November 24 - 11:00 pmWe have thoroughly enjoyed owning a Vue. Looks a whole lot better than our old 2005 Vue (the 08 model is easy on the eye). Interior is a little smaller than the 05 model because of the styling change, not bad though. OnStar free for one year is great. XM radio is always on 60s station. Cant imagine so many standard features, figured wed have to pay extra for all of them. I miss those polymer side body panels. Also miss having a compass.
-
I love it - 2005 Saturn VUE
By Mlashun - November 20 - 1:43 pmI have had my Saturn for right at 4 months and so far, have had no problems. I like the exterior design and although I agree with the interior ratings of others and Edmunds, thats not as much a factor for me as comfort and reliability. Ive never owned a Saturn and am a previous Nissan car owner. This is my first SUV, but Ive ridden in several and I feel that my VUE is a match for the others. I like the gas mileage as its not much different from my car. I also like the roomy interior and the coziness of it. Of particular satisfaction for me is the reclinable rear seats, the grocery rack in the back and the window controls.
-
Fast, Intuitive, Practical - 2005 Saturn VUE
By Brian - November 19 - 8:30 amHaving driven Saturns almost since they were introduced, Ive always rated them high. During that time another car I found a pleasure to drive was the powerful Honda Pilot. What a thrill it was to find that same 3.5 ltr v6 in the ever reliable Saturn brand. It makes getting on a highway much easier and is the most powerful engine Saturn has ever used. Not only that, but theres enough insulation in the interior cabin to bring the noise notorious in Saturns to an all-time low. Its cabin is quite large for a smaller size SUV and has upgraded its interior materials. The rear cargo organizer + Mp3 cd radio with RDS capabilties are welcome additions. Driving is more enjoyable than ever.
-
Excellent Saturn! - 2003 Saturn VUE
By AJM1 - November 10 - 10:00 amBuying this vehicle was so easy & so fun. I love my car!
-
Best in the West - 2004 Saturn VUE
By oresteskid - November 4 - 2:00 amNeither rain, nor sleet nor snow..... sound familiar! Its true
-
Saturn VUE - 2004 Saturn VUE
By TMFdeC - November 4 - 2:00 amGreat SUV! Lots of room for cargo and passengers. Very easy to drive and to get around town in.
-
your next car - 2004 Saturn VUE
By julissa - November 4 - 2:00 amgood on fuel, not as comfort as i will like, and could have a better interior
-
Great Car - 2004 Saturn VUE
By morty - November 4 - 2:00 amThe only complaint I have about the car is the 4 cylinder is a little bit loud. Reality is that it is a 4c and a large vehicle. You cant find a better SUV for the dollar. I tried all the other ones
-
Best One Out There - 2004 Saturn VUE
By HomeBase1 - November 4 - 2:00 am04 FWD V6, We wanted something more reliable than our "ol sludger", Toyota Sienna. We stumbled upon the 04 VUE and really liked it. Plenty of space for a "small" SUV--this looks much more like a mid-size SUV, extremely quick with the Honda 3.5L V6 engine. The redesigned dash is much more appealing and doesnt look like the old S-Series any longer. Plenty of leg room! Cant be beat for a $23K price tag, $25K with leater, moonroof, power seats and MP3 player. The Higlander was too much money and the Escape costs too much to fix the brakes (read other posts here at Edmunds). Good gas milage for a big powerful V6, 25MPG.
-
2004 Saturn vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
By mschap - November 4 - 2:00 amVery surprised of how solid this vehicle is built. It performs well in town and on the open highway. Very versitle and comfortable.
