Of course, if you're into squealing your tires in quiet neighbourhoods, compact SUV bragging rights or just like to haul heavy cargo, the 3.5L V6 engine upgrade is for you. This engine maxes out at 250-horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque, and retains, until further notice, segment leader status. As previously mentioned it was designed by Honda specifically for the VUE, and provides the peppy little 'ute with ample power in pretty
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| The 3.5L V6 engine was designed by Honda specifically for the VUE. (photo: General Motors of Canada) |
much any and every situation, thanks in part also to the electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission. The V6-powered VUE also picks up some Honda magic in the form of variable valve timing, to keep it fuel efficient yet with good low-speed pull and plenty of high end-punch.
Saturn, as mentioned earlier, decided to go for gold when modifying the VUE for Red Line status, taking optimum advantage of the vehicle's 7.5-second 0 to 100km/h time. The Red Line version continues into its second full year of notoriety with a revised grille and fascias. The grille adopted closely resembles Saturn's new corporate nose as seen on the Aura concept and Sky Roadster, so this is expected to be similar to the face of the next generation VUE.
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| The 2006 Red Line gets 18-inch aluminum wheels with P245/50R18 Bridgestone Turanza performance tires. (photo: General Motors of Canada) |
The 2006 Red Line gets other add-ons that help it look the part of box-car racer, including updated skirts and 18-inch aluminum wheels with P245/50R18 Bridgestone Turanza performance tires, not to mention the lowered suspension and sport-tuned electric power steering. The interior gets a similar attitude adjustment with black leather seats with suede inserts, metal pedals, custom floor mats and mood lighting for your feet.
Truly, there is nothing like it on the market, at least in Canada, where we do not have access to the infinitely modifiable and tunable Scion xB. And even if the xB were available here, it would have nowhere near the power of the Red Line until you tricked it out with thousands of dollars worth of TRD (Toyota Racing Development) gear.
