2008 Saturn Vue XR AWD Review (video)

Among all GM divisions, Saturn is definitely soaring the most. For 2008, the entire lineup of the automaker's youngest brand is all-new and more exciting than ever. The days of polymer panels and extremely plain-looking vehicles seem long gone. Today, Saturn has become synonymous with boldness and modernism.

Does anybody actually remember the "boxy" 2002 Saturn Vue?

In order to complete such a radical transformation in such a short period of time, GM gurus did not hesitate to find help overseas. While the Astra is derived from Opel, the automaker's European division, the new 2008 Vue has roots in Asia, through a development program involving various GM branches. South Korean subsidiary GM-DAT (formerly Daewoo) took care of most of the engineering, while the Russellsheim-based German design studio penned the bodywork. Finally, production for the Americas is handled by the Ramoz Arizpe plant, in Mexico, while the European and Asian markets are supplied by GM-DAT's Bupyong plant, in South Korea.

As you can see, this Saturn is now a global product. We, North Americans, know it as the Vue, but it's also sold under different names like Antara (Europe), Captiva MaXX (Australia) and Winstorm (Asia). Does anybody actually remember the "boxy" 2002 Saturn Vue?

Universal design
By exploiting its best resources, GM was able to develop a vehicle that can answer the needs of different markets. Therefore, don't be surprised if the 2008 Saturn Vue feels like a Honda CR-V or a Kia Sportage once you sit on board.

The interior layout is as modern as the exterior styling. The materials are pleasant to touch and look at, with fit and finish being neat and tidy. The color scheme has been cleverly thought out and includes a number of chrome accents.

The seats are large and plush, although they could use more side bolsters, like the CR-V's. They would do a better job of holding your body in check as a result. Having said that, they're far from the flabby buckets of the Dodge Grand Caravan. GM designers even included a footrest or dead pedal for the driver, making long drives more enjoyable.

The materials are pleasant to touch and look at, with fit and finish being neat and tidy.