The Saturn Vue is used to sitting at the back of the class, but the 2008 model year gives it a chance to redeem itself and show all of the other sports utility vehicles that it’s not such a loser after all. With a little more power and a little more comfort, the new Saturn Vue is more ready than ever to be your go to SUV for both practical and exceptional circumstances. Will it live up to expectations? Probably so, and things are looking good for this restyled old friend.
The Good:
- V6 engine on higher trims has the power
- nice, European like design on exterior
- handles excellently
- well balanced
- not lacking in safety features
The Bad:
- doesn’t have enough storage space
- seats in front a little small and restrictive
The 2008 Saturn Vue is a lot different from the Vue’s before it, and it makes you wonder where it got its inspiration. Just a look at its design is enough to answer that question, as it becomes obvious that the Vue snatched some ideas from the European market, notably from GM’s Opel. It’s been taken completely apart and put back together, with a much better designed cabin area this time around, as well as a more powerful V6 engine which now has 257 hp. It handles better, drives better, and is more entertaining.
A small SUV that fits five, the 2008 Saturn Vue comes available in three trims: XE, XR, and Red Line. Pick either front wheel drive or all wheel drive for any one of them. The base level, the XE, comes with the following features standard:
- 16 inch alloy wheeks
- AC
- remote entry
- OnStar
- full power accessories
- cruise control
- tilt wheel
- satellite radio
Then there is the mid level XR trim, which comes with:
- 17 inch wheels
- luggage rack rails
- heated mirrors
- leather wrapped steering wheel
Finally is the sportier version of the Vue, the top of the line Red Line trim, which adds:
- sport tuned suspension at a lower level
- 18 inch alloy wheels
- exhaust outlets made of chrome
- rear spoiler
- leather and suede upholstery
- heated front sports seats
There are not yet any crash tests results for the 2007 Saturn Vue, either from the government or from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, but the expectations are high with this one, considering how well equipped it is with standard safety equipment. Included in that are stability control, antilock brakes, traction control, active head restraints, and plenty of airbags.
Cheers,
Fashun Guadarrama.