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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  Impulse Buy - VUE Red Line - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Spaceboy - September 26 - 10:00 am

  After shopping the car market for a few months to replace my Saturn L300 I was still looking. That all changed when I took my vehicle into the dealer for an oil change and saw the Electric Lime VUE Red Line in the parking lot. Ive never liked SUVs much, but thought Id take a chance and fell in love instantly. The car-like ride quality and smooth, yet powerful, engine make my long trek to work a pleasure. The Red Line package and bright color also make the VUE stand out; its received compliments from the young and old as I drive around town!

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  my great VUE - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By david cottrell - September 26 - 10:00 am

  most powerful SUV I have every driven.

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  Very good Value in a midsize SUV - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By John W - September 26 - 1:16 am

  We have had our Saturn XE Vue FWD for 11 months now and recently purchased a Toyota Venza which we now can compare it to. The Saturn 4-cyl. is a very good match for this vehicle. The 4 speed auto trans. works very well, but I like the Venza 6-speed better. The Saturn has a very comfortable ride and has a great deal of room inside. The driver sits nice and high and this vehicle has an extra fat steering wheel, which I also like. The as built quality looks to be as good as the Toyota. The price makes the Saturn Vue an excellent value in the market, even as we see GM going through all of this change. I would buy another one without question.

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  Great automobile - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By k796812 - September 25 - 10:08 am

  Bought the car new in 07. Other than routine maintenance I have had almost no problems at 150,000 miles. Surprisingly fast for what it is. I average approximately 25mpg on the highway.

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  Sleek exterior hides major safety flaws - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By incatnito - September 20 - 10:00 am

  Initial impression A+, good power V6 AWD, already used in snow. I have contd unresolved issues w/Dealer whos promised heat element for drivers seat since 06/04, its now 09/04. Wanted Redline model on floor, dealer told me it was "promised to someone. Now glad I didnt get it. Value has dropped from $25,000 to approx $19,200 trade value in 5 mos. Saturns recall is not a joke, but a potential serious accident waiting to happen. Inquired when extra support available for rear suspension (rear tires folded on safety test in fishhook maneuver), was told could be up to a 1yr. Over 200,000 vehicles recalled. Increased rollover risk w/suspension failure.

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  its under rated - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By sargon - September 20 - 10:00 am

  i like the car very much however, there is room for improvment as i will outline in the improvements to be made

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  Had for a week, then towed away. - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Bummed Out... - September 15 - 8:46 am

  I have been researching small SUVs for quite some time. I decided on a used 2008 Saturn VUE V6 AWD, then went for a beautiful XR with leather. After I drove it off the lot, the check engine light came on. Saturn serviced it and found a faulty electrical relay. A few days later, it was dead in my garage. A flatbed had to come take it to the Saturn dealership. They said my battery is testing fine, and dont know the problem...Im now back to driving my 96 Escort. I love the VUE, but am very disappointed. Thank God for the warranty.

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  Saturn Vue Lemon - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By Never again - September 14 - 12:06 pm

  I bought my used 2002 Saturn Vue AWD in 2007 from a Saturn dealer in Downers Grove. It had 53,000 miles on it. From the start it had problems--a loud whining noise which was the vacuum. Then the ABS light went on, along with a fluid leak under the engine The service engine soon light went on with loss of power. I took it to a Saturn dealer in Savoy. They put in a new water pump/wheel speed sensors/hub assembly. That took care of some problems. I took it in seven times to get the service engine soon light and hesitation/loss of power problem solved. It never was solved and my engine ended up ruined with metal shavings in it. I need a new engine-big bucks. I will never buy a Saturn again.

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  Another VUE - of another Winner - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Arthur Mueller - September 13 - 10:33 am

  This is my second VUE, the prior an orange 02 that had <62K and was still going strong. As my fourth Saturn I am a firm believer in Saturns drive for quality in their products. My new VUE is by far and away the sharpest best designed and appointed vehicle yet. From the heated leather power seats, exterior and interior chrome and wood appointments and attention to detail, craftsmanship is state-of-the-art. Ride is as perfect and my prior VUE, while the Honda engine provides more power at lower RPM on the highways giving much better than average fuel economy. The V6, AWD and side curtain air bags provide me with a feeling of security and safety no matter what the road conditions. Its great.

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  Quality Poor - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By St. Louis - September 11 - 3:03 am

  The 2007 Saturn VUE handling is acceptable. Engine noise through the cabin is noticable. Mileage on recent 2000 mile trip averaged 23 on hwy. Car was delivered new with a large crack in the roof frame allowing water into the cargo area. Robots were asleep when assembly took place. Saturn North America says they will weld defect but not warranty it.