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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  FUN TO DRIVE! - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By luvourvue - August 7 - 10:00 am

  Drove by the dealership on an errand and a blue model caught my wifes and my attention. Had to stop and check it out. Friendly salesman, Shannon, had us take a test drive, and my wife was hooked! Had been considering AWD but decided for the price, FWD was fine for us. Got 0% 60-month financing and the monthly payments we were looking for. Comfortable ride, handles well, sufficient power, and looks great - love the color. Junst a note - if you get one with color-keyed bumpers, be sure to get the stick-on bumper pad to protect the finish!

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  Excellent Overall Package - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Anthony - August 6 - 7:43 pm

  My wife and I just bought our first Saturn. Very pleased with the buying experience, which is another first for me. The Vue is an excellent choice for a family of 4 that needs a vehicle with extra cargo room or light towing capability(we will tow our 2 jet- skis), but still want some sporting character. I love the VVT V6 with 6spd automatic! Tapshift feature makes it more fun/engaging to drive and give an extra measure of control over the driving character. The Red Line has minimal body roll, very good handling for an SUV, solid brake pedal feel, good steering feel, and an awesome interior. Seats are supportive and comfortable. There are many thoughtfull touches/features in the interior

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  Enjoyable car - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By pepmac - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Comfortable, medium sized with room

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  First Impressions - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By vuedude - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Went to the dealership after an exhaustive research/test drive process. Others considered, Santa Fe (questionable reliability/poor customer service), Honda CRV (arrogant sales staff/lowballed trade/no rebates), Ford Escape (poor reliability, overpriced), Chevy Tracker (too small), Toyota Rav4 (too expensive). We got the Vue for way under 20,000 clams and its loaded. Also purchased the extended warranty. The car drives great, is quiet at speeds (even highway), holds more stuff and actually fits "3" adults in back or in our case 2 car seats with room for a passenger. Wife loves it!! So do I!!

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  My views on the VEW - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By WL Nelson - July 27 - 10:00 am

  At firstI was not to taken with the VEW however over time I have become quite fond of it. On the highway it holds the road well. I have not really had it of road enough to qulify it. I am not overly enthused with its gas milage and If you are runing around 50mph with the front windows up and the back down (so your dog can enjoy the ride)the vibration from the door panels flexing is deffening.[ this does not occure with all windows open or closed.] If you are planing to use it only in town you might consider the 4cyl. I have the 6cyl with AWD and am quite happy with it but will tell you more when I reach 100,000.

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  Still brand new, but loving every minute - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Landon Pool - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Only had Vue for 2 weeks, but am loving it! Had to keep payments cheap so opted for FWD4 w/ VTi Automatic trans. Was wary of this at first...a mid-sized SUV powered by a 4-cyl., but its very peppy! Rides smooth, & you cant feel it shift w/ the variable trans.. Since we couldnt afford 4-wheel drive, I was drawn to the Vue because the 2-wheel drive models are FRONT wheel drive, which is safer than most rear-wheel SUVs. This car has great safety ratings! Very nice gas mileage too. The only complaint is the door panels on the inside. Construction seems cheap. But this car is economical, but no compromise on safety, comfort, & space.

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  Our Life with the Vue - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By dnldaway - July 27 - 10:00 am

  We really liked our Vue. We drove it across country and it was very comfortable. However, gas milage was TERRIBLE....we traded it in for an L- Series.

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  Excellent Saturn Vue - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Roberts - July 27 - 10:00 am

  Rides very quietly and smooth. Comfortable for traveling and very spacious. Saturn company tries to satisfy customers to the max...

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  Just Bought - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By kcohne - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I fell in love the first time I test drove the new 04 VUE, it is the smoothest drive and effertless electronic steering are wonderfull the roominess and feel are fabulous.

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  The New VUE - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Obiwan - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Searching for a new family car, was a battle between pracitcality for my wife, and performance for me. Hondas CR-V, Pontiacs Gran Prix were on our list with the VUE. The VUEs Acceleration and handling was impressive. The fuel economy and overall price cinched the deal. There simply was no SUV on the market with all these perks, for this price. The newest version has had some exterior improvements that really made a difference. Overall, we love our new SUV. My wife feels safe, and can haul all her "stuff" around. Not that I do, but knowing I can go from 0 to 60 in 6.8s, does a lot for my performance needs!