2009 Saturn Vue: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Saturn Vue lineup is largely unchanged. Based on the Opel Antara from GM's European subsidiary, the 2009 Vue is offered in XE, XR, sporty Red Line, and Hybrid (formerly Green Line) trim levels. Vue seats five and is available with front- or all-wheel drive and a range of 4-cylinder, V6, and hybrid powertrains. Conventional 4-cylinder Vues have 169 hp, front-wheel drive, and come in XE and XR trim levels. The AWD XE has a 222-hp 3.5-liter V6. XR V6 and Red Line have a 257-hp 3.6-liter V6. All Vues include an automatic transmission. The Hybrid version has a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder gas engine that pairs with an electric motor with 172 hp. No plug-in charging is required. The has a 4-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid system can shut off the gasoline engine at a stop, but it can't run solely on electric power. Promised, but not delivered during the 2009 model year, was a "2 Mode" hybrid that would have paired a V6 engine with an electric motor. The 2 Mode Hybrid could run solely on electric power. Introduction of this model is tentatively slated for the 2010 model year. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A navigation system is available, as are heated seats, remote engine start, and a rear cargo management system that is adjustable for different cargo-carrying needs. A wireless cell-phone link is a new option.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are typically the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles; some offer seating for seven.

Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V, Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Volkswagen Tiguan. Our Recommended picks are the Saturn Vue and Toyota RAV4.

New or significantly redesigned models include the GMC Terrain, Subaru Forester, and Volkswagen Tiguan.