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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  Currently testing the VUE(Oct. 14, 2002) - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Delenn - July 1 - 10:00 am

  Ive only had this car for about an hour, but so far I LOVE what Im driving. My current car(Blazer)s in the shop & Im looking for a new car. Of the ones Ive been considering (Mid- size range) the Passport was at the top of my list. Until I saw the VUE today from the rental agency. Will have this car for two days, but Im not sure I want to give it back!!! I Didnt even know Saturn made an SUV! COOL!

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  Love My Vue - 2008 Saturn VUE
  By Vue Fan - June 30 - 5:30 pm

  I had been researching and waiting to buy when my old car(Blazer) made the decision for me. Wanted the utility but better mileage. Drove major players and decided the looks/features of Saturn offered more for less. When GM decided to let me use my GM points on Saturns, the decision was easy. Thought driving a 4cyl would be boring but it just takes a little change in driving style. No regrets on the 4cyl. Itll run, just makes a little more noise. Got 24.5 on first tank. Interior is fantastic. Love the interior, no GM cheap plastic, things where they should be. Decent base stereo, love the XM. Drives like a car. Realized Im a car (crossover) guy.

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  Great VUE - 2007 Saturn VUE
  By tsk - June 29 - 5:30 am

  We bought our VUE in Oct, and we cant stay out of it. We love the interior and the space you get with this vehicle and the sunroof is just icing on the cake. We chose the storm gray, awsome color. The steering is so smooth its effortless. We love it. The pick up for a four cylinder was suprisingly quick, and on the first tank full I got 27 miles per gallon. We test drove the Rav 4 and the Honda CR-V. Both were too small inside. We chose the Saturn for the space and fuel economy. This is our first Saturn and only time will tell if its our last. I heard they last a long time.

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  A Vue to a killer ride - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By Detroit AE - June 27 - 10:00 am

  My Vue is a lot of fun. I get stopped on the street by admirers. Its fun to drive, small enough to fit into economy size parking spaces in downtown Detroit, it sits up high for good visability in traffic and is comfortable for four large adult passengers.

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  Love It - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By MCSE - June 24 - 2:00 am

  2000 V-6 FWD VUE. Love it! Dealer got the exact one I wanted. Didn’t charge for the Décor Package (Scotch-guarding, clear coat protection on the paint, pin- striping, and window-tinting). Even took out the $80 floor mats. Wal-Mart sells a set that match the interior for $20. Looked at all of Edmund’s reviews and the VUE was the best for the money. Power steering is unique (electric assisted) but nothing I can’t get used to. The VUE handles well and is very responsive with the V-6. 5-speed automatic is the smoothest shifting transmission I’ve driven. I’ve read all the reviews on the VUE and been looking out for problems others have had but so far no problems.

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  Wanted Inexpensive, Got Cheap - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By robert noland - June 24 - 2:00 am

  I read all the reviews and was hoping for an inexpensive small SUV. Thought I would be fiscally "wise". Got a cheap, poorly crafted car. Been to the shop multiple times. Car doesnt start when temp is below 60. Thank goodness I live in South Florida. Dont buy this car! Save your money and purchase a better vehicle. I will be trading mine in before it is a year old and taking the financial hit.

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  A fun vehicle - 2005 Saturn VUE
  By karen - June 23 - 5:53 am

  I havent driven my Jag since I got this SUV - its fun, handles excellently and is perfect for both commuting and hauling stuff.

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  Impressive SUV for the Price - 2006 Saturn VUE
  By victors01 - June 22 - 8:30 pm

  The VUE is a nice SUV for a reasonable price. The V6 engine, along with the 5- speed automatic transmission, provides great acceleration. The fuel economy is good considering the engines power. The ride is quiet and smooth. The cabin offers plenty of space and has comfortable seats. The new GM stereo head unit is nice and easy to use. My only complaint about the vehicle is the obvious cost-cutting tactics that GM used, such as a manual seatback on what is supposed a power driver seat. Toyota or Honda would probably offer a true power seat. Side airbags, or any safety feature for that matter, should be standard. Shows a lack of commitment to safety on GMs part.

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  First time Saturn owner - 2002 Saturn VUE
  By Mary - June 11 - 8:06 pm

  I bought my Vue new and was hit twice within my first year, both times extensive damage was done. On both occasions, I had no sore neck or any other physical problems afterward. It was though I hadnt been in an accident. Id been T-boned and rear ended. Im extremely pleased with its crash protection qualities. I love my Vue, and hadnt experienced any real mechanical failures until around 100,000 miles. Then it was an O2 sensor, engine leak, and engine light staying on. It turned out to be the part that allows the diagnostics to work (forget name ). Five- hundred dollars later, it seems that only the light was bad. I now have 108,000 and wonder if I should sell it soon. No regrets!

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  The best vehicle value Ive ever enjoyed! - 2003 Saturn VUE
  By mjuresich - June 8 - 2:58 pm

  I bought my 03 Vue in November of 08 for $2500 with 180K on the clock and a salvage? title. I now have 237k miles on it. Ive only replaced the brakes, a wheel bearing/hub assembly, a rear drive shaft support bearing and U-joints in the 4.5 years Ive enjoyed it. It just wont die! It always starts right up even on the coldest of Michigan days. The AWD is tremendous in the snow. Talk about value and reliability! Ive received more than my moneys worth from this vehicle. I hate rust and thus love the plastic body panels on this vehicle. Ten years old and it still looks great! Id buy another V6 Vue in a minute!