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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Shoulda, woulda, coulda - 2003 Saturn VUE
By Tiffany Burson - June 6 - 2:00 amI traded in a Passat on this car so I could take our large dog around more comfortably for him and us. Wow, what a mistake. After German engineering, it is hard to get used to Spring Hill plastic. POOR, POOR quality. I knew that the Saturn was inexpensive, but I assumed it to be of good craftsmanship, if not of high end materials. Was I ever wrong. I want a divorce from the Saturn family.
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VUE V6 FWD Red Line - 2006 Saturn VUE
By dON - May 28 - 12:06 amQuick and nimble, great drive train, with all the power the typical owner needs. The Red line rides like a car, not an SUV. Corners very well and the sound system keeps you in the groove while you test the 18 inch tires ability to hold the road.
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2003 saturn 4cyl vue - 2003 Saturn VUE
By morrison - May 27 - 10:00 amWe were pleased and surprised to test- drive all of Saturns line of vehicles before we landed on the Vue. A spacious interior and a well designed exterior were key to our purchase. We would like a better gas mileage on our 4 cylinder but are happy with 22-30 mpg for city and highway driving. Highway miles are smooth and noise free and the cruise control is so convenient. Overall we are content and satisfied with our Vue.
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Saturn Good but not GM ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE! - 2008 Saturn VUE
By creativ1 - May 24 - 2:15 amI have a sad story. I own a saturn vue 2008 xr and was very happy with it. Recently though...onstar came to give the car a jump because the battery would keep going out every 5 days or so. The man they sent through onstar was called "Wells Automotive Service" The young man crossed the jumpers on my car and messed up $600 on my car and blew out the 30 amp fuse, killed what was left of the batter and blew out the onstar batter for backup. However...roadside assistance did not rent me a car while it was at the dealer since October 16th 2011. They turned it over to the claims department and I got a claim number. The people at the claims office said that they are only paying for $155 worth of da
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Excellent Bargain - 2006 Saturn VUE
By Jason - May 23 - 8:40 am250 hp Honda Engine. Excellent fuel economy. Excellent styling in and out, truly a standout in its class.
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Do not buy this vehicle! - 2007 Saturn VUE
By Karen - May 23 - 1:30 amCannot tell you what I have spent on this since we bought it used in 2014. I very regretfully traded in my 2004 Ion for this money pit. It had just under 80k miles when we bought it and I have done a lot of maintenance and some repairs. Just had the alternator and battery replaced last week, which cost 1k, now it has trouble starting!! Getting checked out today and stomach is in knots wondering what the hell else is wrong. Done sinking money in this vehicle. Stay away from this truck!
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Brakes - 2005 Saturn VUE
By Rachel - May 22 - 8:23 amMy experience with my Saturn Vue has been pretty good. The only thing that I have noticed is that when I happen to hit a bump on the road or a pothole if I have my foot on the brake I loose my brake. It almost feels as though my foot is bouncing on the pedal. Other then that, I love the SUV. It is perfect for my family.
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Parts? Performance? - 2008 Saturn VUE
By rcraft - May 20 - 11:40 pmWhen I bought this Saturn I liked it very much till things started happening. Rear wiper will cycle one time each time you close the rear hatch. Had a transmission repaired and they messed up my front wheel alignment when they had to disconnect the steering linkage to fix the trans. Took a rock to my windshield and then could not find a windshield anywhere in USA that my mirror would attach to because the mount for the mirror was different than other vues. Rear wiper blade can only be replaced by buying the complete arm at Chevy dealer for $47.00 (no refills around that fits). Now my windshield wipers stop working as Im going through a rain storm and starts back up when it wants to.
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Best in Class - 2006 Saturn VUE
By Frank Kulp - May 20 - 6:16 pmI never expected to be a VUE owner, but after test driving many competitors, the VUE AWD version was the best. The AWD with roof rails and chrome package looks great. The Honda engine has great acceleration. Handling and suspension is also on par with competitors. Interior is attractive and seating is roomy and comfortable. Make sure you test drive, this is best alternative for a street driving SUV. Beats Equinox,Santa Fe, Escape,& Liberty "hands down".
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My Vue of 2003 VUE - 2003 Saturn VUE
By SRW4327 - May 20 - 10:00 amSince I bought my Vue, I have found that I have a truly excellent vehicle. It handles well, corners great, no top- heavy feel. Loading capacity is 1/3 from back to dashboard-meaning I can pick up lumber when needed. Fold- down 2/3 rear seat gives room for lots of gear & a passenger, too. Styling is top-notch--still getting lots of "looks" when driving around. Breaking is sure and steady with ABS, even in very incliment weather. Leather package makes the heated front seats nice and cozy, great heater & defroster. Great sound system. 6cd changer in-dash & cassette, too. The best, most comfortable all-around vehicle I have ever had.
