2008 Saturn Vue consumer reviews

Since 1973, when I bought my first car, I have owned or leased nothing but foreign cars (Toyota, Mitsubishi, Subaru). I had nothing against American cars. I always gave them a fair test, but they always came up short...until I tested the 2008 Saturn VUE. I did test the 2006 Saturn VUE and Ion, and I did not like them (noisy, cheapy). Thus, I was blown away when I got behind the wheel of the redesigned 2008 VUE and couldn't believe it was the same car. As it turns out, the only thing Saturn carried over from 2006 and 2007 models was the name. (I don't know why they didn't change that, too!) This car/SUV is stunningly quiet and refined. In fact, if you blindfolded someone and drove them around in the new VUE, they may swear they're in a Lexus or a Mercedes! It's that impressive. How they do it for so (relatively) little money is beyond me, but I'm not complaining. In fact, the only minor quibble I had was with the 4-cyl engine in the car I initially bought. It was just too underpowered on the highway, especially on hills, so I swapped it in (and, to the best of my knowledge, only Saturn lets you do that) for a 6-cyl. Yes, I took a hit in the wallet on the gas mileage, but the increased horsepower and torque more than make up for it. If you are car shopping and have visited Toyotaland or Honda Country, make it a point to climb Mount Saturn. I think you'll enjoy the VUE!

The 08 Vue is a quantum leap from my previous 2 (4 cyl. 5 speeds); it's smooth, quiet and luxurious by comparison. My wife loves it, especially the red color, which she calls "Ruby Slipper;" you know, from the Wizard of Oz. On the down side, although my 4 cylinder model has adequate power I doubt it will ever get the 30 mpg that the 5-speeds did. One of my friends with a RX350 was really impressed with the look, sound and feel of the Vue; he left wondering if the extra $20,000 for the Lexus was really worth it. This is my 4th Saturn overall and I have always found the Eco-Tec engine to be 100% bulletproof.

The all new VUE is comfortable, has great standard safety features and has a great new design. The 4 cylinder engine has plenty of power and I like the choice of the larger 6 cylinder for overall performance.

I like all-wheel drive and "manual" shifter. Excellent performance and ride. Could have used a couple of extra 12V outlets up front. Overall I'm so far very satisfied.

The 2007 and the 2008 Vue are like night and day. I test drove both cars. Driving the 2007 Vue was totally uninspiring. The steering was sloppy and the vehicle was not very responsive. The 2008 Vue couldn't have been more different. The steering was crisp and although it looks a little bulky, it feels very agile, even sporty. I had driven the Rav4 the previous day and would have to say that the 2008 Vue is more fun to drive. The 2008 styling is a huge upgrade in looks over the 2007. The interior feels roomy and has some nice detailing. Also, the base Vue comes with standard features that are options on any other brand out there; XM radio, OnStar, 6 airbags. I had no intention of buying a 2008 Vue, I was looking at the 2007 Vue Hybrids, but it definitely won me over. Negatives are the less than ideal gas mileage and my 4 cyl Vue will not win any races. Many more positives than negatives.

The new VUE is by far and away one of the queitest SUV's i've ever driven. On par with a luxury SUV not like the run of the mill toyo, or honda. Fit and finish are far superior as well. Go drive one you'll agree.