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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  07 VUE - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By Scott - August 28 - 1:53 am

  We had 2 uncomfortable cars, 93 Civic, dragging ground, and 03 wrangler (fun but uncomfortable.) So when we test drove the VUE, it was great. That day we had test drove the HHR and Vibe, but this was a perfect fit for us. Roomy, comfortable, options that suited us perfect, at an affordable price. We love the steering wheel controls and heated seats, and the mp3 input, which we use for our Sirius radio, sounds great.

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  2005 Saturn VUE - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By luvmysatsuv - August 22 - 12:36 pm

  In looking for a small, economical SUV for less money, I found the Saturn VUE for less than I thought I would have to pay. Better economy than expected, better ride than others I drove. I love the dash board, the reclining rear seats, the large outside mirrors, and the large window area. Averaging over 26mpg in everyday driving, 30mpg for hiway trips. Has room for all our junk and four people. Love the fact that I can park it anywhere without worring about dings. My Saturn has the 5-speed trans and this improves on its performance, plus the clutch has a light touch, not tiring. Its not the perfect vehicle, but its perfect for what I need this vehicle to do.

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  Very Happy After 3500 Miles - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Dick - August 15 - 8:30 pm

  This car is just what I was looking for. It is just right for my wife and me. She will drive it but would not drive our other minivans or full sized sedans. It is a great urban auto and has been just fine on 600 mile trips. It is easy to park and has plenty of acceleration. We have had no problems at all and are now driving it in the snow with temps at or near zero F. This is a Minnesota car and will see -20F in a month or so.

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  Thank God for the warranty!!! - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By Zeyda - August 14 - 5:40 pm

  By the time I take my Vue in for the oil change every 3000 miles,I find something wrong with it. The last time the sensor had to be replace. Before that, I had to get something replaced that had to do with the emission or oxygen which made my Vue shut off in the middle of driving. The tranmission has been giving me trouble. And now, theres a screeching sound when I turn it on every morning. I took it to the dealer and of course, when they turn it on the noise disappears. Also, some part has been recalled or something and the dealer never has the part that has to replace it in. Its very frustrating. I should have bought a Toyota! Thank God for the warranty!!

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  HATE THAT WIND NOISE!!! - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Lisa - August 9 - 7:56 am

  I have had my 2006 V6 Vue for about a year,and this is my first SUV. I love the look of the vehicle, and I havent had any problems with its performance I also love that it drives like a car, but that wind noise at 50-70 mph drives me crazy. It sounds like my window is not rolled all the way up, or maybe my door is not completely closed. I guess Ill just have to learn to live with it.

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  I love this car...Period! - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By DaveJ - August 7 - 6:00 am

  I drove my last truck until it died. When I had to get a new one, I knew I needed an SUV despite high gas prices, because where I live, we get a lot of snow. I bought the AWD Vue, and while I saw on the sticker that I could get about 24 MPG, I was still excited because my old vehicle got more like 8. Im not a professional hyper-miler by any means, but I am able to coax out 30 MPG on my daily drive to work and back. Add in the very nice design, the awesome feel and power of the vehicle, and Im getting far more car for my money than I expected when I bought a Saturn. Their "Rethink" campaign is fitting, because I have "Rethought" my previous view. I love the view from my Vue!

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  Love it! - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Punky - August 4 - 2:00 am

  Love the VUE. Very happy with the performance and looks. There were a lot of features that came standard with the FWD V6. Its very comfortable driving and has great pickup. *Cargo organizer seems to be making squeaking noise when driving. Has anyone experienced the same or other noises within vehicle?

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  Awesome ride - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By Calista77 - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Overall this vehicle "rocks". I love the way it looks and handles. The V6 is plenty petty and the 16" alloy rims are to die for. The interior is nicely equipped, love storage spaces. This SUV had everything I was looking for.

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  My VUE - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By Ana - July 31 - 6:16 pm

  I am definitely having a great time driving this car and Im looking forward to long trips. The VUE is my 3rd Saturn car. Ive driven a compact and sedan, and now an SUV. The transition was smooth, driving adjustment was minor, and I felt confident and safe in driving a bigger car. Gas mileage is pretty good. Theres very good visbility, rear and side, with no view obstructions. Brake response is reliable.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By wcl63kgl - July 31 - 10:00 am

  All areas on this vehicle are excellent including the price. It has great potentiality for being a RV dingy also which I am a RVer.A