General Motors’ Saturn VUE is a compact crossover SUV, and is Saturn’s top-selling model in the United States since its introduction in 2002 model year. Built on its success, Saturn VUE Red Line was introduced as a special high-performance line of vehicles in 2004, and followed by environment friendly oriented hybrid SUV VUE Green Line model in year 2007. A all-new second generation new model 2008 Saturn Vue was introduced at the 2007 Greater Los Angeles Auto Show and is a re-badged Opel Antara, where it was previously previewed as Saturn PreVue concept design at the 2006 New York International Auto Show. All 2008 Saturn Vue has 4 doors, with standard engine as169 hp (126 kW) 2.4 liter Ecotec with variable valve timing.
ajc reviews 2008 model Saturn VUE and says that Saturn’s new exterior design is European-inspired, with its rounded and tapered roofline and its accented fender molding. These touches really work well, making the Vue an attention getter. The Vue also gets praise for its tighter fits and more seamless exterior body. Saturn says it wanted to focus on better ride and handling for the Vue. The test-drive model, the XR, had an energetic 3.6-liter V-6 that made 257 horsepower. The lower-level XE has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V-6.
San Jose Mercury News test drives 2008 Saturn VUE and concludes that “3.6-liter 24-valve V-6 and six-speed automatic transmissions are quickly becoming a mainstay of GM’s lineup, and they provide excellent acceleration, smooth shifts and quiet operation. In fact, quiet running was one of the Vue’s best features. Steering feel and response were excellent. I can speak to the overall driving dynamics, though, and they are excellent. The Vue is the most enjoyable small SUV in its price class to drive, both on highways and curving country lanes. The brakes are excellent, with very good pedal feel and plenty of stopping power. Passenger room is good, with plenty of leg and headroom. The interior didn’t offer a couple of useful features that $30,470 should cover, however: memory seats and a telescoping steering wheel. But the Vue’s style, comfort, handling and value easily outweigh its shortcomings. The latest German-bred Saturn should amaze owners of the old Vue and draw more converts to GM’s transatlantic brand.
