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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  Saturn never disappoints - 2009 Saturn VUE
  By Jessica - July 17 - 2:00 pm

  This is my third Saturn and first SUV. I test drove 10 or more SUVs and came back to trusty Saturn, (this is my third one!) I love my dealer and drove over 70 miles to buy from them. I saw reports that the interior stains easily and I dont keep cars nice and I have no problems with the interior. My dealer gave me some of the stain fighter they use! The steering feels like a car, very manueverable, the seats are wide and comfy. I can fit alot of junk in it! Love the XM and free Onstar. All of my Saturns have had great maintenance records. Love Love Love my VUE! Join our Club, if you want a great vehicle and super dealer staff!

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  Hybrid saves money - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By TXPioneer - July 17 - 7:10 am

  I loved my Saturn VUE004 v6 but I wanted a hybrid so I traded. I lost a bit of the zoom that the vs had but the gas mileage has been great. Around 26 in the city and 30-33 on the highway. I even got one tank at 36 MPG!

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  Dead Soldier - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By boyinblue - July 15 - 10:43 am

  Bought a Saturn 2002 VUE (V6) with about 100K on it for under $10K from a local dealership. The original owner put every bell and whistle on it. No issues for the first 2 years and then the parade of issues started. I understand the SUV had 100K on it but what started happening should not necessarily be expected The engine is horrible. It is my understanding that Saturn opted for a SAAB motor. I believe they has those engines until 2005. Nothing but issues. Leaking oil, burning oil, had gaskets replaced. Recently the 6th cylinder quit. We have sunk about $3500 to keep this car on the road. We should have dumped it within the first 3 years after purchase.

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  2004 Saturn Vue - 2004 Saturn VUE
  By VUEBYU - July 14 - 2:00 am

  Honda motor and transmission is smooth as silk. I purchased my first Saturn in 1992 and it has 230,000 miles. Saturn Vue is a pleasure to drive. Added head and side airbags and xm satellite radio. Look forward to driving. Vehicle cruises at 80 mph with Rpm at 2000...unbelievable. On first long trip of a little over a thousand miles, averaged 26 miles per gallon. Glove compartment is el cheapo...overall, so far, so good with just under 3000 miles driven.

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  Worth the Wait - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By MNuffda - July 11 - 3:00 am

  I ordered my VUE last April. I wanted to upgrade my 94 SW1 and was not willing to leave the Saturn service so I waited. After driving the VUE for a month, I have absolutely no complaints. With manual transmission, I have plenty of power. So far I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a small SUV.

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  Disappointing Hybrid Vue - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By fairfield1 - July 5 - 11:10 am

  Im very disappointed in this vehicle. I have had several scary driving events in which the car jumped, lunged, and/or stalled for no apparent reason. It has been in for service and repaired several times. In addition it only gets 22 miles per gallon -- pretty bad for a hybrid. I think the poor gas mileage and the problematic engine/electrical system must be related but the service department denies that there is a problem. They say their problems are no worse than the Toyota Prius. I find it odd that they justify their problems by another manufactures problems. I will never buy a Saturn or GM product because of these problems and how I have been treated by Saturn.

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  VUE Views - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By SHANE - July 5 - 8:33 am

  A nice car. Perfect for the wife to bus the kids and general driving around town. Works great as a ball field running bus for all the kids.

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  Happy Vue Owner - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By Vue04 - July 4 - 7:10 am

  Engine and transmission are excellent. Handling average for a small SUV. Interior layout good, but materials could be better. Seat cushion is too short and flat. Exterior styling is aggressive and unique.

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  Dont get one - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By Vermont mom - July 3 - 10:00 am

  My 23 month old Vue already has over $2500 in repairs. A front wheel bearing went, and recently, I had to have the engine rebuilt and the sway bar replaced. The oil vent got condensate, froze and forced all the oil out my dipstick, oil light never came on, and it ruined my engine. Sway bar? never heard of THAT breaking.

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  Value - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By G - July 2 - 6:53 pm

  the Saturn VUE is not what it claims to be. I had problems with the stearing wheel and the dealer had to replace the ignation. There is also a leak in the left driver side and the battery is always drained and the dealer could not figure out the reason. In addition to the doors allow air into the vehicle specially in windy days. For the amount I paid, I expected a better quality. Also the dealer claimed that I would receive a $1000 rebate and they would not give it. I thought Saturn dealers are somehow honest, but they are still car dealers.