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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Happy and Sad - 2008 Saturn VUE
By HappyAndSad - November 29 - 7:53 amI picked up my 08 Vue at the end of the 08 redtag event. It was a demo, so it had a couple thousand miles on it, but that also helped make the car extremely affordable. I love the look and the feel of the car. I traded in a VW Rabbit for the car, so this has 100 more HP and the AWD makes the winter weather conditions almost nonexistent. Despite everything I love about the car, it broke down on me within 500 miles of purchase. The dealership said that the computer logged nearly 900 codes, but that once they were cleared they could not identify the specific problem and chalked it up as symphony of glitches at occurred at the same time. Needless to say, my fingers are crossed.
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A great car and a great price - 2003 Saturn VUE
By awojcik - November 28 - 10:00 amWe purchased a new SATURN VUE for 14000, from Saturn of West Broad this Summer. We love the car! Our Gas milage averages between 25-29 miles per gallon, our insurance is cheeper than the Subaru legacy (1996) that we were driving, and the car has little regular maintenance. We looked at many similar vehicles, and we are so happy that we purchased the Saturn VUE.
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A Car with a VUE - 2002 Saturn VUE
By John E - November 24 - 2:00 amGreat ride and all accesories for under $20,000. Feels Good, Looks Good, and light on the pocket book at the pumps. First time Saturn buyer and everyone wants to know what my car is. They love it and so do I.
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Nice SUV - 2004 Saturn VUE
By chuck - November 22 - 6:46 pmThe VUE is not as fast as the Lincoln Mark VIII and not as comfortable as the Grand Marquis but the gas mileage is a lot better (24 - 26) With the back seat down I moved a lot of things like a weight bench, a desk, dish washer things that I couldnt move before. Easy to get in and out of, and I still sit higher. so far I have 25000 miles on it and I never had a problems with it and I dont baby it.
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Super convenient vehicle - 2005 Saturn VUE
By Frank Udell - November 17 - 10:50 amThis vehicle is a pleasure to drive. It is easy to get into, and to egress. (very important for older individuals) I have heard that the Saturn Vue has mushy steering. I personaly find the steering to be as good as, if not better than, many vehicles I have tried. Acceleration is great (V6), and more than adequate for cross country traveling, and getting out of tight situations. The VUE feels good to drive and is comfortable. I would really recommend the VUE for the more mature set.
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100% satisfied like a Snickers bar! - 2008 Saturn VUE
By 100%SATISFIED - November 16 - 1:10 pmI just purchased the Vue(redline) I must admit Saturn was the last on my list. Now I have my foot in my mouth. I saved a lot of money, fell in love with the interior and all the additional perks. Above all the drive-like butter. Spacious room for my 3 kids and we feel safe unlike other x-overs that have plastic side doors. Aerodynamic shape and airbags and sufficient leg room. Traction is excellent and I must say this car is underexposed!We give the Vue a shout out! If the kids can give this car props, I must say the Saturn Vue is a true winner! The truth sets you free and you definitely have a winner! Thank you!
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Awesome vehicle - 2003 Saturn VUE
By Dbaldwin - November 14 - 10:00 amThis is a fun vehicle to drive. I bought this vehicle for my wife to drive. I feel comfortable with my wife driving this vehicle.
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Darn GOod - 2003 Saturn VUE
By Gary White - November 14 - 10:00 amGreat, its reliable fun and looks good. It gets good gas mileage and is very reliable.
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Would buy this car again - 2003 Saturn VUE
By Leigh - November 11 - 10:26 pmI bought this car used in 2005 and have had absolutely no problems with it, Ive only had to replace the tires, brakes and oil. I have had none of the problems that have been explained here. The car was totaled about a month ago and I would have bought another one except for the fact that Saturn has gone out of business. This was my second Saturn and hate that I cannot buy another one.
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Luck of the draw - 2005 Saturn VUE
By trek - November 7 - 1:16 amAn odd vehicle that I bought because my wife liked/wanted it. Initially I didnt think like it much at all. Weve used this Vue to tow, haul and carry everything from sea kayaks to dirt bikes as well as a 4000lb trailer across the USA. Its been in the snow in Canada and the desert SW heat as well as off road trails in various parts of the country (after decent tires were added). Its an odd vehicle that has been clobbered by depreciation but I have to say out of the European, Japanese and American vehicles Ive owned over the years, this thing has been the little engine that could. Great family car too. The dealers on the other hand, are so bad I will not darken their doors. Ever.
