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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  Love this SUV! - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By Marianne - March 11 - 7:23 pm

  This is my first SUV, but not my first Saturn. I came back to Saturn because my last one (an SL sedan) was very reliable. I have to say that this is great on gas mileage, and there are a lot of features that you would expect from an SUV that was more expensive. Pickup is what you would expect from a 4 cylinder, but its great for around town driving! I take mine on 1400 mile road trips- this was exceptionally comfortable with plenty of room for people to spread out as well as luggage. I felt a lot safer with OnStar. Nice that they give you one year free!

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  Proud to own a Vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By DIZZYCAN - March 11 - 10:00 am

  My Vue has become an extended family vehicle. My son and daughter and in- laws as well love to drive it. I have allowed al of them to use the Vue for vacations and trips up north. It is peppy as needed, smooth on the road, easy to handle, well balanced and as comfortable inside as any other SUV I have taken for a test drive. Funny thing. since I got mine there are now four others in the neighborhood.

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  The VUE is a GREAT VEHICLE - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By DeanT - March 11 - 10:00 am

  I wasnt even thinking of buying a VUE. I was looking at the minivans and stopped in the Saturn dealership. Since they didnt make a minivan (in OCT of 03) I took a station wagon home for my wife to see. She didnt like it but asked if they had an SUV? I went back to to dealer and tried a VUE. I was sold in a minute! What a confortable ride and unbelievable power in the V^ motor. When my wife first drove it she saie "Wow! You have to be careful with it because it has so much power" I have no doubt buying it was the right decision, even after now driving it more than 8,000 miles.

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  2004 Saturn Vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Patti Stevens - March 11 - 10:00 am

  After looking at the Chevy TrailBlazer, Equinox we tested the Saturn Vue. We found the controls to be easily accesable and liked the "new" styling of the interior. Many different textures, although plastic. We found the Vue to be fun to drive with excellent handling, not tiring. The electronic steering system was a little "touchy" getting use to but once we adjusted to it its great.

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  Zoomy, Fun, and Sporty - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By Gerry - March 10 - 2:56 pm

  What a great vehicle. Saturn puts a zoomy 250hp V6 Honda engine in the VUE. The result is a great ride in a sporty vehicle and you can heap on the extras like, leather, a sunroof and super stereo system without killing your wallet. Great for hauling my bike, canoe and dogs. All that and a best in class 28 mpg highway rating. I looked for 8 months and couldnt find that combo in any other mid size SUV. Saturn wins big with the VUE.

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  Great Vue from Saturn! - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Dave M - March 10 - 9:26 am

  We have two of the 2006 Vues - this review is for the V6 one that I drive. First off, love the V6, so much more (intoxicating) power than the 4 cyl in my wifes Vue. Same or better gas mileage under every condition too. Very comfortable, solid interior (leather), great storage space, decent radio (base radio with XM plugged into the mp3/ipod jack). 5 speed transmission is pretty much flawless, like the Honda engine. Doesnt handle like a sedan or sports car (and it shouldnt) but I prefer my Vue to my folks Volvo XC90 (T6) any day of the week. Could be quieter at highway speeds, but its still acceptable for sure. I prefer my 06 over the redesign of the new 08s so, maybe my last Saturn?

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  A consern customer - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Lisa Redes - March 6 - 10:00 am

  I bought a Saturn SUV in May 04. I cant roll down the two back windows without a LOUD wind noise coming in which is annoying. When you dont have your seat belts on why isnt there a emergency notice that reminds you to but on your seat belt? My seats have 1/2 so call leather on material. Why would you put a material thats not comfortable. It itches my legs when I wear shorts. Is there seat covers I could by without getting them custom made. Stores dont make seat covers that have arms on them Please help me before I get a rash

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  AWD VUE - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By saturn fan - March 6 - 10:00 am

  Outstand vehicle. Hoda engine and transmission make it possible to tow this saturn. Could offer more color choices in the future. Vue is fun to drive. Once again Saturn has come to the front of the pack by doing a consumer courtesy recall by addressing the rear wheel problem that may or may not be a problem.

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  marginal - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By denise - March 6 - 9:56 am

  I purchased my VUE based on largely on the sticker mileage of 27-32 mph. HAHA!!! Im getting 22-24 around town and 28-30 on the freeway (average driving, not a lead foot). I got around the same mileage with my Accord EX which had a V6 engine and was a much smoother ride. Plus Ive had to have the hybrid battery replaced once already. I like the cargo area for my dog and the interior space is good for both front and back seat passengers. But Id get something else if I got to choose all over again

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  We Love Our VUE! - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Gary Streifd - March 4 - 9:06 pm

  Words cant describe how much of a joy it is to own & drive our VUE! My wife consistently gets compliments everywhere she goes. It is so easy to maneuver - the electric power steering is a breeze. Needless to say, we have absolutely no regrets!