2007 Saturn VUE Review
The VUE is a compact CUV released for 2002. A high performance “Red Line” edition was released in 2004, featuring a 250 hp V6 and sport-tuned suspension. In 2006, it received a makeover, improving both the exterior and interior, and adding OnStar as a standard feature. The VUE will be redesigned for 2008.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Saturn VUE is about as basic as it gets. A bland exterior and somewhat cheap interior, along with a rather boring list of standard features make the VUE about as unexciting as possible. However, it’s good at what it is, and that is a cheap, competent CUV. Its powerful V6 helps it stand out as a great value that can get the job done.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power and Associates gives it three out of five stars in initial reliability. Automotive Information Systems gave the 2004 VUE an overall green rating. Problems that plagued the first two years of the VUE include loose exhaust manifold bolts, inaccurate fuel gauges, engine lubrication problems, and a faulty defroster. Expect above average reliability out of the VUE. The standard warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the VUE its highest rating in front impact crash tests and the lowest available for side impacts. This low rating could be mitigated by upgrading to head-curtain airbags, though. Also, the VUE received five out of five stars for front and side impact tests in government crash tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Anti-lock brakes and traction control are standard on the V6. Side curtain airbags are optional. Front side airbags and stability control are unavailable. There has been one noteworthy recall for the VUE: In 2002 it was recalled for faulty rear outboard seat belts.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Inexpensive
+ Standard air conditioning
+ Sloppy handling
Cons
– Poor IIHS side impact rating
– Cost-cutting apparent from interior design
– No stability control or front side airbags
Head-To-Head Competition:
You might want to consider the 2008 Ford Escape XLS, which, for $1,000 more, comes with ABS, side airbags, and traction control. The Honda Element LX, for $1,400 more also comes with ABS, side airbags, and traction control, along with a slight boost in horsepower. However, the VUE gets slightly better gas mileage. The Hyundai Tucson also comes with ABS, traction control, and side airbags, for the same price as the VUE, though without air conditioning as standard.
What Others Are Saying:
“The V-6 Vue has outstanding acceleration for its class-after all, this engine also hauls around the Honda Odyssey minivan, which weighs up to 1,000 pounds more than the Vue.” – Automobile Magazine
“Saturn undershot. The Vue is so basic that it seems like it was designed to match the competition of five years ago. The interior reminded me of early minivans.” – U.S. News & World Report
“It’s easy to tell the boxy VUE is built on the same “Theta” platform which is the basis for the Pontiac Torrent and Chevrolet Equinox. VUE is as bland-looking as most Saturns have been since the supposed import-fighting Division was created by GM’s then-CEO Roger Smith in 1990. Even Red Line VUE models, such as my AWD V6 model, do not stand out in a crowd.” – About.com
Read more about the 2007 Saturn VUE at the Saturn manufacturer web site.
