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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  Vues Good to Me - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Pokesusie - July 22 - 10:00 am

  The interior may not have leather but the functionality of it is perfect. I have yet to experience the vague steering. The AWD VUE handles well in snow and rain. I enjoy the 6 cylinders going up hills in the mountains without having to floor the pedal. My gas mileage is right where the sticker said. In fact Ive been getting 20 in the city. The hidden cargo baskets in the back are perfect! Saturn built this SUV for individuals. My 65" nephews fit comfortably in the back seat. My 6 year old twin nephews like the fact they can see out the window. My elderly mother enjoys being up in traffic without needing a step stool to get in.

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  So Far So Good - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By Saturn2 - July 18 - 10:56 am

  Bought this used with 15,000. So far it has been reliable and economical for a large vehicle.

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  Buyers remorse - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By POd in Pittsburgh - July 8 - 6:23 pm

  Never regretted a purchase of anything as much as this vehicle. I have had it for 14 months and I am in the process of buying a Dodge Nitro. I cant wait to be out of it. Nothing but problems. Airbag, stereo, hood, wipers, windows, heater fan...should I go on? Oh and it has had to be towed 4 times for a dead battery! Gas mileage is no where near what it is advertised at.

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  The US is in trouble - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Artsy341 - July 8 - 10:00 am

  We love the package: big cargo area, 4 cyl economy, CVT technology, non-dent panels. We hate the shoddy "we can save a nickle if we use this flimsy cloth" mentality of domestic manufacturers. Its been in the shop three times first year to replace: tie rod end, sprung gas cap cover and wheel bearing. Do you know how many miles you have to drive a Honda to go to the shop three times? Have you ever heard of a Toyota needing major suspension parts inside of 150K? Sayonara - we are off to buy a Honda Element (taking it in the shorts on a trade in and all!)

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  GM Rip Off, the worst Suv Ever!!! - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Romans - July 7 - 9:40 am

  Bought it used with a rebuilt transmission and 50,105 which went at 55,020. GM had done anything to fix this issues of thousands of bad VTIs transmissions for 2002-2004 4wd Vues. First and last time I buy American cars. What a shame that we cant rely and support our own products no wonder why people prefer Japanese Engineering those are for sure reliable vehicles.

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  Buyer Beware - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Daniel - July 4 - 3:43 pm

  This car really has problems….. I had the transmission re-built at 8,000 miles and then replaced at 35,500 miles. Had a binding valve replaced at 10,000 miles because the AWD would kick in for no reason, Saturn replaced something called a rear lateral link assembly at 30,000 miles (I guess this was a recall). The interior is cheap plastic, which seems to bother me when people ride in it because some people even comment on how cheap it looks. I have endless problems with the window sprayers malfunctioning. Overall this car has had way too many problems

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  O.K. thus far - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By jeep55 - July 3 - 10:00 am

  have had minivans prior, so comfort is lacking for my 64 frame. Dealership is still in question. Hope all is well for the long term.

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  Seems good so far - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Pbaker - July 3 - 10:00 am

  I have only had the car for a month. I have had 2 other saturns and they were great cars. The fuel mileage is not even close, but still pretty good. I guess Ill see how it turns out.

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  alshoe review of the VUE - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By alshoe - July 3 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased the VUE a couple of weeks ago. Own a 2002, L300 for a year and love it. Took a 200 mile trip in the VUE and really enjoyed it. Many SUVs ride like a truck. The VUE rides and handles more like a car. The V6, 5 speed auto trans is very responsive and is a quieter and softer ride than the L300. Vehicle is practical for our family needs in hauling people and/or cargo. Have not had the opportunity to test the AWD feature.

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  Best Fuel Value in its Class - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By Mr. Styles - July 3 - 6:03 am

  Since I became the owner of my 2005 Vue, I can truly say it has been worth the purchase. I use mid-grade gas and I can get up to 300 miles to a tank. I have also learned how to maximize my horsepower by down shifting to the lower gears. The versatility and roominess have helped me in carrying my sons and my work load. Keeping it clean has been quit easy. The only problem I have truly had so far is keeping the stains off the fabric. Other than that, this car has been a great addition to our family.