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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  Gray slug - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Paul - January 17 - 8:53 am

  Purchased this auto late 2007 in hopes to help GM. Found out that our Vue was actually made South of the boarder. Had hopes that listed MPG of 22 was not correct, it was. Now Saturn is belly up and I own something which I should not of purchase, should have bought a Ford.

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  solid, fun ride, no probs - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By freddyb7 - January 16 - 10:00 am

  Purchased in June 03, and basically luvit. Had SC-2 traded in that was pristine, stayed with bright red. Rides smooth. Eye-catcher everywhere I go, and its always "Thats a beautiful SUV, where did you buy it?" Glad I got one! Waiting for winter to see how AWD does.

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  Plastic Vehicle - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Charles Newbold - January 12 - 7:40 pm

  I like the Saturn to look at and to drive. I was surprised to discover the amount of plastic used in the body. Sure hope I never get hit buy a volkswagon. Also the seat on the passenger side is very uncomfortable as compared to the drivers side. I find the power very good.I like the saturn,but they could improve the quality and safety if more metal was used in the construction of the vehicle.

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  4star for price - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By jill - January 12 - 7:40 am

  Great and unexpected find. Pleasantly suprised. Our model with upgraded radio, autodimming rear mirror, chrome package, leather, heated seats, tinted windows. No cheap looking plastic silver decals on dashboard like the Chevy Equinox. Same cupholder as Acura TL. Definitely like how Saturn upgraded this model making everything standard. Rides like the Lexus RX 330, and feels like it on the inside too.

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  Happy about my VUE - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By mary - January 11 - 5:00 am

  Ive enjoyed my VUE very much. No problems at all with its performance. The only thing that can be bothersome is the blind spots in the front frame around windshield. I purchased an extended warrenty up to 100,000 miles just in case its needed. The stereo is great. Ive been pulled over by the police to turn it down and Ill turn it back up because I just cant help it! So far, best car Ive ever owned!

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  Vue - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Dave Y. - January 7 - 8:40 pm

  The Saturn Vue is on the comfortably small side. It is very quiet, smooth riding and sure footed. I would recommend that if you live in hilly country, move up to the V6 with the 6 speed automatic. Gas mileage has been between 24 and 25 miles per gallon mixed driving with the 4 cylinder, 4 speed auto. The only thing I would add would be a temperature gauge

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  Dont Believe Everything You Read - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By M-Family - January 5 - 11:50 am

  We read all the website reviews before purchasing. Tested Ford Sport Trac & Escape & Honda CRV. This SUV drove smooth and quiet. Im tall and my wife is short and the seats fit us both and there is more than enough leg room and power.

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  New Saturn VUE - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Donia Erickson - January 4 - 2:16 am

  I love my new car! It is easy to handle, gets great gas mileage and it is pretty to look at. This is my second Saturn and I will definitely be a repeat customer!

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  Improve performance/forgo boyracer looks - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By saturnalia - January 4 - 2:00 am

  The Saturn Vue is one of the few vehicles that a 6 footer will enjoy space to stretch. However, it drives likes a much larger vehicle rather than a nimble SUV that it seems to be.

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  I Own One - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By mark anderson - January 4 - 2:00 am

  The 4cyl Saturn VUE should only be available with a manual trans. as the performance is sluggish at slow speed. However, the combination of economy and good performance at higher speeds is a winner. Quality is excellent. Were a high mileage user and would recommend the car to anyone.