2002 Saturn Vue: Overview
Archived Review
2002 Saturn Vue ▼
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- MSRP: $16,325 -$22,575
- Invoice: $15,228 -$21,041
Features & Specifications
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Pros
- Ride
- Passenger and cargo room
Cons
- Engine noise
- Steering/handling
Vehicle Highlights
Saturn's first SUV is priced and equipped to compete against compact SUVs such as the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V, but is the longest vehicle in its class. Vue features 4- and 6-cyl engines, seats for five, and Saturn's traditional dent-resistant plastic body panels. The 4-cyl model has front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The V6 is AWD only. Front-drive 4-cyl models come with a 5-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic (CVT), which furnishes variable drive ratios instead of conventional gear changes. V6 Vues use a 5-speed automatic transmission. The AWD system lacks low-range gearing. Options include ABS, curtain side airbags, and General Motors' OnStar assistance system. Vue has a liftgate without separate-opening glass and stores its spare tire inside, under the rear load floor. The split rear seat works with a fold-down front-passenger seatback to accommodate long objects.
COMPETITION
Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buys, the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Mazda Tribute don't offer true off-road ability, they do mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction. The V6 Tribute/Escape offers more power, comfort, and space than any in its class.
Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, but it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.
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Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | 4 cyl 2WD, CVT Rating | Compact Sport-utility Vehicle Average Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Acceleration | 3 | 3.5 |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | 4.8 |
| Ride Quality | 6 | 3.7 |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | 3.7 |
| Quietness | 4 | 3.3 |
| Controls | 6 | 4.8 |
| Details | ||
| Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front) | 7 | 5 |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | 3.7 |
| Cargo Room | 7 | 6.7 |
| Value within Class | 6 | 5.4 |
| Total Score: | 52 | 44.6 |














