When the Saturn division of General Motors was launched in 1990, it billed itself as a "different kind of company." What was so different? First and foremost was its no-hassle, no haggle sales approach. Most people consider buying a new car akin to enduring a root canal. Saturn addressed this concern, and has enjoyed amazing success, ranked number one in both 2000 and 2001 J. D. Powers Sales Satisfaction studies. Obviously a different approach to retail has paid dividends.
Speaking of different, Saturn also held a unique position among GM brands. In an effort to appeal to prospective customers who wouldn't normally consider buying domestic, Saturn was separated at birth, becoming a self-contained, fully independent company running its own manufacturing and assembly. Initially, they even built their own engines and transmissions. Saturn's marketing, highlighting its unique character, was so successful in disassociating it from General Motors that many people to this day don't realize it's a GM brand - despite recent efforts by GM to bring all nameplates under one umbrella. This globalization trend has caused transmission production to end at Saturn's Spring Hill, Tennessee plant.
While some things change there are still plenty of differences between Saturn and the rest of the GM pack. Remember the TV ad that had two brothers using their parents Saturn as a baseball backstop? That was to show off their unique polymer panels. The panels cover a steel space frame rather than conventional steel unibody construction, making them resistant to scratches, dents and corrosion.The new VUE, Saturn's first SUV, is the latest model to benefit from this technology. It's great looking too, with a rugged but cute appearance that should have cross gender appeal. Standard features include 16" wheels, integrated roof-rails, electric power steering, electronic throttle control, A/C and a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system. Moving up to the V6 adds a 6-speaker stereo, fog lamps, cruise control, remote keyless entry, power windows, door locks and sideview mirrors, plus an auto-dimming mirror with compass and outdoor temperature gauge.
Bob Lutz, President and CEO of General Motors, recently commented that he is generally unhappy about the quality of interiors of vehicles built by U.S. manufacturers, and he is working to change that. This is a good thing as it's the VUE's only shortcoming. While attractively styled, its interior plastics aren't of the soft-touch variety that has become popular among import buyers. What's more, it's overall fit and finish is slightly below par. In particular, a plastic trim piece surrounding the HVAC system was loose, while some interior rattling was already present.
On the positive, the VUE has an impressive cargo capacity, holding 1,785 liters when the 70/30 split rear seatbacks are folded flat and 858 liters with 5 passengers aboard. To accommodate long loads, the front passenger seat folds flat as well. Map pockets in each door, a large armrest bin, ample cupholders and a handy organizer under the rear cargo floor make it easy to live with.
To the Greeks, Saturn appeared the slowest of all planets. That sure isn't the case for the VUE's 181 hp, 3.0-L V6. Press the accelerator pedal and the VUE jumps off the line, reaching 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds. This is slightly quicker than most its competition, due in part to a relatively light 1,443 kg curb weight. This will really be an advantage if you opt for the fuel-efficient 143-hp base engine. While a 5-speed is available with the 4-cylinder, optional transmissions include a 5-speed automatic with the V6 and a continuously variable unit with the base engine - again improving performance. Both 4 and 6-cylinder models come in AWD, while FWD is only available with the standard engine.The optional ABS assisted brakes will bring you to a stop from 120 km/h in a reasonable 57 meters (188 ft) too, about mid-pack when compared to other compact SUVs. That said, when it comes to handling maneuvers the VUE inspires confidence, performing slightly better than most of its peers.
Will the Saturn 'run rings around its SUV competition?' That's hard to speculate. Still, its competitive pricing, impressive performance, good fuel economy, ample interior space and anticipated sales experience satisfaction should make the VUE a hot seller.
Specifications:
 |
 |
Bob Lutz, President and CEO of General Motors, recently commented that he is generally unhappy about the quality of interiors of vehicles built by U.S. manufacturers, and he is working to change that. This is a good thing as it's the VUE's only shortcoming. While attractively styled, its interior plastics aren't of the soft-touch variety that has become popular among import buyers. What's more, it's overall fit and finish is slightly below par. In particular, a plastic trim piece surrounding the HVAC system was loose, while some interior rattling was already present.
On the positive, the VUE has an impressive cargo capacity, holding 1,785 liters when the 70/30 split rear seatbacks are folded flat and 858 liters with 5 passengers aboard. To accommodate long loads, the front passenger seat folds flat as well. Map pockets in each door, a large armrest bin, ample cupholders and a handy organizer under the rear cargo floor make it easy to live with.
To the Greeks, Saturn appeared the slowest of all planets. That sure isn't the case for the VUE's 181 hp, 3.0-L V6. Press the accelerator pedal and the VUE jumps off the line, reaching 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds. This is slightly quicker than most its competition, due in part to a relatively light 1,443 kg curb weight. This will really be an advantage if you opt for the fuel-efficient 143-hp base engine. While a 5-speed is available with the 4-cylinder, optional transmissions include a 5-speed automatic with the V6 and a continuously variable unit with the base engine - again improving performance. Both 4 and 6-cylinder models come in AWD, while FWD is only available with the standard engine.The optional ABS assisted brakes will bring you to a stop from 120 km/h in a reasonable 57 meters (188 ft) too, about mid-pack when compared to other compact SUVs. That said, when it comes to handling maneuvers the VUE inspires confidence, performing slightly better than most of its peers.
Will the Saturn 'run rings around its SUV competition?' That's hard to speculate. Still, its competitive pricing, impressive performance, good fuel economy, ample interior space and anticipated sales experience satisfaction should make the VUE a hot seller.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP):$22,495 - $33,280 (dealer installed accessories not included)
- Body Type: 5-door SUV, steel spaceframe (CB)
- Layout: Front engine, FWD (opt AWD)
- Base Engine: 143 hp, 152 lb-ft torque, 2.2-L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4
- Opt Engine: 181 hp, 195 lb-ft torque, 3.0-L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
- Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 5-spd auto, CVT)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (opt ABS)
- Curb Weight: 1,443 kg (3,175 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Cap (min/max): 858 / 1,785 L (30.3 / 63.5 cu ft)
- Ground Clearance: 203 mm (8.0 in)
- Towing Capacity: 682 - 1,136 kg (1,500 - 2,500 lb)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 10.6 / 7.6 L/100 Km
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive
- Direct Competitors:Chevy Tracker, Ford Escape, Honda CRV, Hyundai Santa Fe, Isuzu Rodeo, Jeep TJ/Liberty, Kia Sportage, Land Rover Freelander, Mazda Tribute, Suzuki Vitara/Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4
- Web Site: www.gmcanada.com
Article Gallery