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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  VUE for Grandma - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Larry Laudig - August 28 - 10:00 am

  We bought a 2004 VUE last week and have enjoyed the looks, performance, and economy of the vehicle. We have the 4 cylinder with the belt driven automatic and it moves along quite well. There is a bit of noise when you "floor it" but the best part of the ride is cruising along at a constant speed where everything is quiet and the view of the road is excellent. We also enjoy the appearance of the view. Our car was purchased with "CAR CARE" for 5 years which provides all maintenance during those years.

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  Excellent - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By encycloman - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Had the underside treated by Ziebart (a producr called Soundcoat) & the road noise is gone! The beast has a lot of power - and does get the 20 city, 26 highway mileage. Ran STP with the oil, finally switched to Amsoil 0W30, and that seemd to help the mileage. The dealership here (Saturn of Green Bay wisconsin) is awesome - they havent had to do much, since my Vue really runs & runs.

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  Great Car! - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By LOVE IT! - August 26 - 9:13 pm

  I have owned my VUE for about 3 months now. Its my first Saturn and I am so happy with it! GM gets an A+ for this one! I get so many people looking at it and commenting about how nice it is. I love the chrome package on the front and rear of the car.

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  Wonderful - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By AWHEEL - August 26 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Vue for over a week now and I love it. The back seats have plenty of leg room and the front seats are very comfortable. It has great pick up when you need an extra "punch" to get on the freeway.

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  Very Disappointed - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Big D - August 24 - 3:16 pm

  This car has potential, but Saturns execution is very disappointing. I got the service record from the previous owner when I bought the car - 21 complaints, some major. Then in the past 6 months I have had to replace or repair the radio, trim pieces, wheel bearings, the list goes on and on. It has such potential, but Saturn just does not deliver.

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  Good car - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By mmeeks - August 23 - 10:50 am

  I really do like my VUE, it has lots of power, the ride is okay, could be a little smoother, road noise is a little loud. Body style is very pretty. Gas mileage is great. Ive had mine for about 16 months and no problems at all. Very reliable. I will definitely look at another one when Im ready for a new one. I love the new body style. I looked at an Outlook only yesterday and feel that the Vue fits me better. I just really dont need that much car.

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  04 Saturn AWD - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By mitchbr - August 17 - 10:00 am

  The Vue has been extremely reliable and fun ro drive. No problems so far. Mileage city 18 Highway 24. Im impressed with thw acceleration and handling. Wish it had a bit more storage.

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  Love this SUV! - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By jimbodean - August 16 - 1:27 pm

  I have had quite a few different vehicles over the years. I traded in a 2009 Malibu, loved the car but have knee trouble and could not climb out of it anymore as it was too low to the ground. Looked at all the small SUVs and nothing compared to the Vue. Gas mileage is adequate compared to the wifes 2009 Dodge Journey R/T. She actually likes driving the view more than her car as she says it looks like a Lexus. 47,000 miles on it and still drives like a dream. I would by another if they were still making them.

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  Stylish and commanding - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By JAMESBOND - August 12 - 5:53 pm

  Incredible machine for the money, beautiful ecotech world engine. Strong great on gas. Stlylish design, handles great, fun to drive and extremely dependable! Have put it in rough conditions and stills pull through with out a cough. Wow impressed with this gas saving SUV.

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  Happy owner - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Flatlander - August 7 - 10:00 am

  Bought it while on vacation in Pensacola Fl. We are very happy with the VUEs power, ride, and gas mileage. It has a unique look and we have had several complements since driving it back to IL.