For 2008, the Saturn line of U.S.-based General Motors has unveiled a new, Compact, five-door SUV with the "Vue" name. Other than the XE and XR base models, there is also a sportier Red Line and the environmentally friendly Green Line Hybrid. The design of the Vue combines the latest design concepts, manufacturing technologies, and approaches to safety.
Powerful and Responsive
Driving the Vue XR, it took no time to get the sense of its quick yet smooth acceleration. This power comes from the 3.6L V6 VVT 275bhp engine and the 6-speed automatic transmission. Cruising at 100 km/hr on the highway in D gear, the engine ran very quietly at a mere 1,500 rpm.
The hydraulic-assisted power steering is responsive, never giving the sense of lag. Vented disc-brakes coupled with ABS at all four wheels can quickly bring the vehicle to a stop. In addition, the StabiliTrak traction-control system will sense when a wheel has lost grip and intervene by automatically applying the brakes to regain control. This is a very important safety feature. The suspension provides a smooth ride even on bumpy roads.
Beautiful Exterior with Comfort and Safety
The European-style exterior gives the Vue full volume with flowing lines. Overall, it has a very active appearance. The unique headlights, the curved roof, and the side vents make the Vue stand out. It was a pleasant surprise to find that the side mirrors are at least 50 percent larger than those on most other cars, making it easy to see the curb when parallel-parking.
The Vue XR is taller than typical minivans. The added height provides a better view of the road and more cabin space. The seats are very comfortable—like sitting in a sofa at home. The seats are ergonomically designed, providing firm support at the waist. The driver's seat is 8-way electronically adjustable, making positioning easy. Folding down the rear seats extends the spacious cargo space even further. This large flat-bed space is very practical and convenient.
Other than the usual air conditioning, remote door locks, and cruise control, the standard features also include UV-tinted windows, an MP3-capable CD sound system, automatic climate control, and a navigation system.
Safety features include frontal airbags and roof-mounted head-curtain airbags, StabiliTrak system, and a tire air pressure monitoring system. Also included is the GM OnStar system, which can assist owners who accidentally locked themselves out, locate the vehicle in case it is stolen, and contact police and ambulance in case of an accident.
The model used in the test drive had an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, which is surprisingly useful when driving in the night. Even if the car behind shines its bright headlights straight into your mirror, you are not blinded anymore. The XM satellite radio reception was solid, and the sound quality was first rate. There also were three 12V outlets, which are great for electronic devices that can be powered from car outlets.
This writer's impression of the Vue is that even though it consumes more gas than the common sedans, it is still a very good value for those who often make long-distance trips or those who seek the fun of driving in a sporty package.
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