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 low-cost hybrid - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By Rick - March 3 - 11:03 am

  Ive had my Green Line for about a year. Its been completely reliable and has never been in the shop for anything but periodic maintenance. I drive on largely short trips, which is not where the Green Lines hybrid system shines. Ive seen highway trips with mileage close to 35 MPG, but my overall mileage right now is at 26.1 MPG. Thats better than some "full" hybrid SUVs. Generally, the GL beats the highway mileage but fails to meet city mileage rating, especially in stop-and-go traffic. If thats what youre looking for, the GL will dissapoint. For me, theres enough suburban and highway to make it a success mileage-wise. Im very happy with the choice.

• 

  My "tall" car is not too bad - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Wernowhere - March 2 - 4:30 pm

  Ive have owned a FWD 4 cyl 5 speed Vue for a little over 2 years Its basically a "tall" car. To be honest, I went into my search looking for a CR-V or a RAV4. After looking at the competition, I settled on the VUE. Mostly a value decision. It was just a lot of vehicle for the money. I was concerned about realibility, but its been a good car to me so far. 38K and no real issues. EPA was 24 city/29 highway. I dont get that, but I do get about 22 around town and 26 -27 on the highway. Ive heard bad things about the 4WD and the CVT. Id probably avoid those but my FWD manual has been a good car.

• 

  I love my vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By kayeaux - February 27 - 2:00 am

  The vue is a powerful suv and a fun vehicle to drive. It is also a comfortable ride and we enjoy it very much. The fuel economy (21-22) is not quite up to my expectations yet but thecar only has 2300 miles and I hope it will improve as it gets a few more miles. Any way we love our vue

• 

  Not Sure - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Mosers - February 25 - 9:10 pm

  I bought my Saturn VUE in 2008. I have driven it over a year now and I have had no complications like I am reading here. I did however just have my brake shoes replaced and they are now telling me that my front wheel bearings are a little loose and will need replacing soon. Other than that I have had no problems like I have been reading. Trust me, I am still reading up on all these problems.

• 

  In a class by itself - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By PAVUE - February 25 - 10:00 am

  Our 4-cylinder CVT is unlike anything else you can buy anywhere. Truly distinctive styling and several very high tech features: CVT, electronic steering, high impact body panels make it unique. Hard to find anything that can hold as much and get mileage in the 20s. We see CR-Vs and RAVs every 30 seconds on the road. Love the Vue!

• 

  SO FAR SO GOOD...MPG? - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By WILLIE - February 24 - 1:26 am

  We bought it Jan 2004. First 11 months its been fine.I dont like customer service and their service recomendations.You dont need your tires balanced every 6000 miles. The only problems Ive had are leg room and MPG.And customer service.Im 64" and if the drivers seat isnt all the way back, my shin hits the underside of the dash. Fortunately, my wife drives it. Unfortunately, I drive a VW JETTA- the worst car on earth. And whats up with the MPG? Im getting 19 or so. ITS A 4 CYL!!! I could understand if it was a fast 4 cyl, but the thing wont get out of its own way (Especially with the air on).They cant tell EVERYONE that its because of our driving habits....Can they?

• 

  Great SUV for the price - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By ynotps - February 22 - 10:00 am

  Great SUV for the price, especially with Honda V6 engine and 5 speed transmission.

• 

  More than youd expect! - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By MsStephanie - February 22 - 10:00 am

  I was up in the air whether to choose the equinox or the VUE. Of course, after my test drive and the friendly dealers, I chose the VUE. Excellent response on acceleration and smooth ride with the V6. Am really very impressed with overall quality and handling of this smaller SUV. I dont hear the noises or feel the sluggishness that others have found. Excellent buy as far as Im concerned in the SUV class.

• 

  Love my VUE - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By designsbyshain - February 22 - 10:00 am

  I have never before driven a Saturn and decided to check out the Vue as I was in the market for a SUV. I immediately fell in love with this car. The dealership treats you like royalty and a member of the Family.

• 

  Vue review - nine months later - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By NC traveler - February 20 - 9:03 pm

  We purchased the Vue in March 2004 and have had no problems thus far. My wife loves the vehicle. She lets me drive on road trips only. The Honda engine is a must. Plenty of power and good gas mileage compared to the bigger SUVs. We get 26 mpg on interstate trips. The car came with On Star and XM radio. My wife was in a minor auto accident and used the On Star when the local 911 would not answer a cell call. The XM is great for long trips. We would recommend this one over the Honda CR-V (I have owned five Hondas) or Jeep Liberty. And it is American assembled!