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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Get the 4cyl 5sp Saturn Vue - 2003 Saturn VUE
By elrheom - January 27 - 10:00 amI stopped by the local Saturn dealer to take a look at the Vue when it came out, not really expecting to purchase the vehicle since I expected lousy gas mileage. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I looked at the EPA estimate. We find the vehicle much better than the Honda or Toyota because of the road manners, carrying capability, turn radius,unique look and the hidden spare tire. We really dont like the spare tire on the tailgate for safety and security concerns. We live in Florida and basicly use the vehicle on paved roads our Vue handles the torential rain storms very well. The folks at the Dealer service center are EXXXXcelent!!!!
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I love it - 2008 Saturn VUE
By Ms. MArce - January 26 - 12:16 amMy car is a lease. I am about to finish it and I would like to buy it if I find a good price. Very comfortable, economic. I had had No problems with it. Only oil change or tire rotations. Some days I feel the AC is nor working properly usually at noon, but it could be the high temperatures here in Miami This is my third Saturn, The first one was a Demo Sedan.(beautiful). I have No complains for none of my Saturns.
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saturn vue review - 2004 Saturn VUE
By alex callner - January 21 - 2:00 amI LOVE this car. I do not understand what you mean about the sloppy stearing? It handles well It is very fun and comfortable to drive. It is roomy and can handle all my packages and boxes I ship for my small home business. True it does not have a polished wood dash and all kinds of gagets. but I dont live in Los Angeles anymore I dont feel I need a car as a status symbol. Just one that is reliable and comfortable and gets the job done.
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my little Vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
By mzthang - January 21 - 2:00 ami love it.. it cute and compact and easy to get in and out of..serves its purpose.
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First Time Saturn Owner - 2003 Saturn VUE
By Teddy2200 - January 21 - 2:00 amLOVE this SUV. Coming from sportscars all my life this is a joy. I feel safe but not overpowered by size. Love the saturn service people.
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snowgoingbeast - 2003 Saturn VUE
By boatmech - January 21 - 2:00 amI just drove my wifes awd vue in some of the worst snow conditions i have seen here near boston. it was like a sunday drive i was trying to get stuck cant believe how capable this vehicle is in snow.Overall we couldnt be happier with this car or saturn of medford.
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Love this car - 2003 Saturn VUE
By juderyan2 - January 21 - 2:00 amThis is my third Saturn and my favorite. Saturn is the only dealer I have ever used in my life for post warranty service of any kind. With all my previous cars, I looked for a local mechanic for all the usual reasons. Saturn dealers arent any cheaper than elsewheere, but the service is always good. In addition, my car has all the features I wanted at a reasonable price.
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Love it! - 2004 Saturn VUE
By orchestra99 - January 15 - 2:00 amI have truly enjoyed my VUE. It is easy to drive (I have a 5-speed), quick, easy to handle, and excellent for vision. I play hockey and have more than enough room for equipment and sticks, plus hand storage for numerous things. Been just great. All the controls are easily accessible and easy to use. The cruise control is particularly handy.
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saturn vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
By russbiggica - January 15 - 2:00 amlooking for a basic and inexpensive suv, Saturn Vue is the best i found.
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the good/the bad/and the not reliable - 2003 Saturn VUE
By rhonnybeware - January 15 - 2:00 amive had my vue only 4 months and it has been in the service dept 5 times,from pink fluid leak to clicking noise under the hood to noise in the dash and the worst of all 4 times for a very bad transmission problem that is still no good. talk with the manufactures said not enough to be sent in as a lemon. so to anyone out there if you are looking to buy a vue,really think again.will be trading this lemon in may have to pay more but i want good and reliablity in a vehicle. fell in love with vue when i saw it now really unhappy!! with performance.
