Saturn Vue

First manufactured in 2002 by the GM plant in Tennessee, the Saturn Vue is a 4-door, 5-passenger compact SUV, consistently rated a top seller in its class. Equipped with a standard 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine, the Vue is also available in a 3.0 or 3.5-liter V6 and a 2.4-liter hybrid. By 2004, the manufacturer introduced a superior high performance Vue Red Line, with a V6 engine (L66) built by Honda that responds quickly and delivers an impressive 250 hp. Buyers can choose a manual or an automatic in the 4-cylinder or opt for increased performance in the 5-speed automatic V6, which also has the anti-lock brake system (ABS) for added safety and traction control. The sporty, stylish exterior of the Saturn Vue has plastic dent-resistant and dust-proof panels, and a convenient, low entry height.

Saturn Features

The firm suspension and large 18” wheels on the V6 ensure a comfortable, smooth ride, with minimal road and wind noise. Interior features have been upgraded to include black leather and suede seats, convenient floor well lighting, and an advanced audio system. The nicely designed instrument panel cluster of white, chrome ringed gauges. and a modern 3-spoke steering wheel add a touch of class to the Saturn Vue. Power controls for windows, door locks, and mirrors are located in a center console, while gear shift housing is located at the base of the dashboard, which provides more floor space for purses or similar items.

Drivers will appreciate the OnStar assistance and steering wheel audio controls that became standard equipment on the Saturn Vue in 2006. In addition to the adjustable front bucket seats, the Saturn Vue has all the amenities of larger, more expensive vehicles, with A/C, cruise, tilt steering wheel, intermittent wipers for front and rear glass, map lights, and rear window defogger and washer. The car-type chassis easily accommodates the driver and passengers, allowing lots of leg and headroom, even with the addition of a power sunroof. Up to 64 cubic feet of cargo space is included, along with a standard pop-up organizer to keep packages from spilling out. A split folding rear seat and the folding back of the right front seat are nice features that will accommodate additional children, or room for longer objects.

Safety and Economy

The Saturn Vue provides great gas mileage with an estimated 23 mpg in town with a manual transmission and an average 29 mpg on the highway. The 2007 Saturn Vue also offers what is called a mild hybrid, meaning it has no separate electric motor, in the front-wheel drive automatic Green Line. The 4-cylinder engine can be turned off when the vehicle is coasting, braking, or stopped, allowing the accessories to continue running. The engine can be easily restarted from the battery assist, saving on fuel, and the system needs no plug in, as it recharges itself. Buyers may want to consider the economy of the Green Line for its low cost and low weight with no separate hybrid drive train.

Safety is always foremost with Saturn models, which all have dual front air bags and daytime running lights, and come with remote keyless entry. These compact SUVs have all received good crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in their resistance to front and side impact collision and rollover deficiencies.

Vue Options

The Saturn Vue comes fully equipped, but buyers will find a large selection of accessories and trim packages to choose from, if they want to add updated features to their vehicle. These options include leather upholstery and steering wheel, an exterior sport package with rear spoiler and running boards, or an added comfort package with heated front seats and a 6-way power driver seat. Other nice-to-have options such as fog lights, curtain side air bags, chrome skid plates, and a DVD entertainment system are available, as well.

The Saturn Vue continues to lead the list of models in the Saturn lineup, as each year the manufacturer has added more improvements to its overall appeal for today’s buyer. Ideal for families on the go, it’s practical, affordable, and reliable transportation for daily commute, shopping, or those weekend getaways and trips out of town.