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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  Nice and useful car - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By Pavel Gonzalez - September 10 - 11:30 am

  I have driven my VUE for 8000 miles, and so far so good, except an ignition switch problem (it didn’t go all the times) repaired by the dealer. Gas consumption was very close to the spec: 22 mpg city, 26 expressways. It is very easy and pleasant to drive. Dimensions are OK for me, big enough to haul a small family around town (including baby stuffs) and roomier like other thirstier and more expensive SUVs. The front seats can be better; they have an uncomfortable haunch at the back. The new interior design is very good with a lot of standards. The power is adequate for a 2.2 L; don’t expect a great performance at high speed. Don’t forget the backup of the Saturn family.

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  I love My Vue! - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Lee Lee - September 9 - 10:53 am

  Due to various job shifts within the auto industry I have owned two Ford Explorers, a Mercury Milan, a Lincoln MKZ, and a Grand Prix (GT) in the last 4 years. Prior to my Explorers I owned a GMC Jimmy and Mazda 626. None of the cars, not even the MKZ compared in styling, handling, and enjoyment in driving as my VUE. I cant imagine Saturn making any further improvements (except making the front seats a little longer). Its a wonderful vehicle and I highly recommend it to everyone!

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  View of the VUE - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By Traveling Man - September 7 - 1:23 am

  The 2005 VUE is a pleasure to drive. It is balanced, and has the power to stay on the road with the biggest SUVs out there. The Saturn Vue it is also very economical too! I drive with my family becasue we do not prefer to fly. We have been to Natchez Mississippi, Denver, and Little Rock. We have driven to San Francisco several times and the Vue handles like a dream. My next family car will be a Saturn. By the way, my wife drives a Saturn SL2.

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  Saturn - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Arnie Mjelde - September 6 - 7:03 pm

  Great vehicle. Trouble free, very comfortable. Is used as a "Toad" for my motorhome. Tows very well. Great value for the money. We also generally drive with 4 people, and all are comfortable. Lots of room for my 63" frame. I have "sold" many to my RV-ing friends.

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  awesome! - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By redrose709 - September 4 - 4:33 am

  I love my saturn vue. It runs great. I have had no major problem with my vehicle. I take in regularly to get checked and they have never ever tried to sell me something I didnt need or ask for. I have 74000 miles on it and have no problems worth complaining about. Maybe taking the car in for regular checks would help some of these people with there problems. When my vue actually does go and i need another vehicle i would most definitely buy another vue.

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  Great all around. - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Adam B - August 30 - 9:40 am

  I drive my Vue for a living five days a week and love the high mpg and XM radio. It is a little under powered but that is a given with the mpg and once you drive it for a wile you become accustomed to it.

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  Satisfied but wish for more... - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By Sholop - August 26 - 2:00 am

  This car is a mix of "Great!" and "needs improvement. The power of the V6 makes this car extremely good at take offs and at passing on the freeway. Good driving position. Looks good. The interior is what needs work; servicable is what discribes it.

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  Looks better than what it is - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By upset in R.I. - August 24 - 5:40 pm

  This was my dream vehicle. As to date, I have had to change the rotors 3 times and resurfaced 1 time. The pads have also be changed a few times. The selonoid gauge in the gas tank bangs really load and that is said to be normal. You hear more squeeks than children in the back seat. I also had to replace the strutt assembly because of noise. This car seems to have fallen apart after its first year of life. What a lemon I got!

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  Hate this Vue - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By HATEmyvue - August 20 - 3:40 am

  I have had it almost 6 months and went from loving it to hating it. It is really pretty to look at but not pretty to own. One issue after the other. First I was told I would get mpg in high 20s in city and 30s hwy. Best ever has been 21mpg on hwy. Hard to start at random times. Started making clicking/zipper noises in steering wheel when you turn and had to be regreased and from what I read, itll come back. Keep having electrical tape and plastic fall on my feet. Very noisy/rattles. Hate loud suspension. Hate transmission. Air bag light goes on and off at random times. Carpet/seats cheap and stain easily. Discovered all these things are common with the Vue. Trading it in at a loss.

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  2009 Saturn VUE XR... I got a good one. - 2009 Saturn VUE
  By Macca2016 - August 19 - 6:34 pm

  I still have this car after 7 1/2 years and still love it. I use it to transport music gear for my gigs and its held up well. Its a kid transport/family transport vehicle that, if you take care of it like any car, will not let you down.