First impressions - 08 VUE XE [Archive]

Spazie

05-23-2007, 01:04 AM

We've got 3 08 VUEs at our store now, all are XEs, 2 are 4 cylinders and 1 V6.

I haven't driven any of them yet. I honestly have no desire to rush out and take a spin like the rest of the consultants did today after the V6 finished PDI. However, I did take a shuffle around the lot in the backseat, and helped someone load some stuff into the back.

The interior quality is a big step up in many ways, but a step backwards in others.

I'd have to say the greatest single improvement, if I had to select one, would be the repositioning of the rear seat release latch. It's no longer a feat for a contortionist to fold down the seat from the middle of the vehicle, since the latch is now on the TOP of the seat where it should be. Other improvements I liked are the positioning of the radio (now higher and more visible), door interior designs (smooth, streamlined, and a built-in cupholder!), repositioning of the rear wiper control to the center stack (much easier to use), new and unusual storage compartments (parking ticket holder - genius! especially for sales consultants' business cards, and the sunglass holder will see a lot of use for most folks), standard side airbags, ABS and four-wheel disc brakes (should have been standard all along) and repositioning of the OnStar buttons to the roof (no more having to readjust the mirror after pushing a button).

Biggest dislike on the interior - rear seat leg room. It is DEFINITELY less than the 07s. I could not sit with my knees straight because they were jammed into the back of the driver's seat. The back seat of our 07 was very comfy on a 3k mile road trip, but I was ready to bail after 5 minutes in the back of the 08. Other grumps - stalk design (what were they thinking?!), steering wheel design (the cruise and audio controls aren't nearly as streamlined), 3 big round bubble vents (they just look dumb), high cargo floor load height, and the cargo net design setup.

The cargo net system is a story all on it's own ... it really could be amazing if they'd done it a little better. The guide rails are helpful but the bar that holds the vertical net up pops out of position far too easily. The bottom net, which stretches flat across the floor of the cargo floor, is awesome. It stretches way further than any of us expected and secured 6 cases of beer (don't ask!) very nicely underneath without even struggling. In all, I think the cargo net system is as good, if not better, than the plastic snap-together carrier in the previous VUE - and definitely won't rattle!

Some of the similarities I appreciated were the fold-flat front seat, incredible visibility from inside, and overall ride comfort.

The ride quality is improved, but not what I'd consider dramatically. Being in the backseat and not the driver, I could still tell that the steering is tighter and more responsive. The smaller XE's V6 had ok pickup, but nothing to write home about. The gas mileage really is abysmal going by the window sticker - I know 08's standards are higher, but it's still way outclassed by other small SUVs in terms of mileage.

My overall opinion of the 08 VUE: I'm happier with it that I had expected. It's really a decent vehicle overall, but it's not a VUE. They should have renamed it, I think there'd be less hatred towards it, as keeping the name VUE while changing so much about the car we loved has been like a stab in the back to loyal owners. I think they will sell alright, but no better or worse than the 07.

greyhound bus

05-23-2007, 06:24 AM

Spazie, you must not have gotten the memo. Junie says the new Vue is better in every way, and we must love it or else! :D

junie

05-23-2007, 07:48 AM

Spazie, you must not have gotten the memo. Junie says the new Vue is better in every way, and we must love it or else! :D

Is that what I said hound? Amazing how personally offended the old die hards become when someone liking the new Vue enters their sacred old Vue turf and lash out. Waiting for that quote hound....something about "love it or else". Meanwhile, I particularly like the performance of the 3.6L, the 6 speed, safety features, the ride, the solid feel and of course the new styling.....does that upset you?

greyhound bus

05-23-2007, 08:05 AM

You may not have said it, but that is the impression more than one of us have gotten. Just two questions for you.

1) Do you or did you ever own a 2002-2007 Vue?

2) What is the "Majic" in a 6 speed transmission? I'm not suggesting it is a bad thing, but I fail to see it as the end all be all of automotive technology. I can maybe see it in in a truck, but does a VERY small SUV need it? It just seems like too many gears for the transmission to be hunting through at intermediate speeds. I tend to think the Honda trans would shift better if it had only four. With the power to weight ratio of the HondaVUE, I can't see where it would hurt performance any.

As a side note, The 3.6 may be a fine engine, As a GM fan, I hope it is a world beater, but the VVT IS very unproven. Lets see how it perform s at 100,000, 200,000 250,000 miles. Also, looking at the horsepower to weight ratio of the 08' I can't see how it would impress you, unless you haven't driven a HondaVue.

2007 Vue FWD V6- Storm Gray, GT velour seat covers, Trailer hitch, Saturn hitch cover, Cargo mat, Vent Visors, Rear air deflector, Splash guards, Custom Saturn front license plate, Chrome exhaust tip.

K-1

05-23-2007, 08:52 AM

1) Do you or did you ever own a 2002-2007 Vue?Funny, I didn't know that was a requirement for having an opinion. :rolleyes:

2) What is the "Majic" in a 6 speed transmission? I'm not suggesting it is a bad thing, but I fail to see it as the end all be all of automotive technology. I can maybe see it in in a truck, but does a VERY small SUV need it? It just seems like too many gears for the transmission to be hunting through at intermediate speeds. I tend to think the Honda trans would shift better if it had only four. With the power to weight ratio of the HondaVUE, I can't see where it would hurt performance any.The entire industry is going to 5, 6, 7, and 8 speed transmissions. Using a 4-speed automatically makes you a pariah in today's industry, no matter how smooth it is.

As a side note, The 3.6 may be a fine engine, As a GM fan, I hope it is a world beater, but the VVT IS very unproven. Lets see how it perform s at 100,000, 200,000 250,000 miles. Also, looking at the horsepower to weight ratio of the 08' I can't see how it would impress you, unless you haven't driven a HondaVue.VVT is a proven technology. There really isn't much to the cam phasers, so I wouldn't worry about them degrading at high mileage. And, believe it or not, the '08 VUE will best the '02-'07 0-60mph and beyond.

greyhound bus

05-23-2007, 09:05 AM

K-1

05-23-2007, 09:35 AM

The reason I ask about owning an 02-07 is I think owning one MIGHT give someone a better Idea why certain people like them, and why they might be less than enamoured by the new one. As for the transmission, just because the "industry is doing it it, doesn't mean it makes any sense. I think part of it is just one-upsmanship. "they've got a 6 speed, lets try seven!"GM tried resisting the "keeping up with the Joneses" shtick before. So far that has gotten them to exactly half their previous marketshare. Not exactly the smartest way to do business, is it?

They use computers to control the most mundane parts of an automobile and that doesn't make any sense either, but the engineers can't help themselves.In a modern automobile, there are no mundane parts.

VVT is a proven technology, BUT it is NOT proven by GM and on this type of engine. To me, the jury is still out on whether they got it right. The way so many of you bash GM, I can't imagine you would think they got it spot-on on the first try.I'm far from a GM basher. The engine has been around for a few years now with many miles on it and it's still highly praised. If there were massive failures, don't you think we'd hear about them by now?

As for the 0-60 times, if you have published test data, I would like to see it.Edmunds says 0-60 in 7.3s, which is a few ticks behind the RAV-4 at 7.0s. 1/4 mile was 15.7s at 90.3mph, again a few ticks behind the RAV-4 at 15.3s and 91.6mph. The '04 RL they tested went 0-60 in 7.9 and did the 1/4 in a tad over 16s.

MotorTrend says 0-60 in 6.7 for the '08, 7.0 for the '04 RL.

MarvC

05-23-2007, 11:56 AM

GM tried resisting the "keeping up with the Joneses" shtick before. So far that has gotten them to exactly half their previous marketshare. Not exactly the smartest way to do business, is it?

In a modern automobile, there are no mundane parts.

I'm far from a GM basher. The engine has been around for a few years now with many miles on it and it's still highly praised. If there were massive failures, don't you think we'd hear about them by now?

Edmunds says 0-60 in 7.3s, which is a few ticks behind the RAV-4 at 7.0s. 1/4 mile was 15.7s at 90.3mph, again a few ticks behind the RAV-4 at 15.3s and 91.6mph. The '04 RL they tested went 0-60 in 7.9 and did the 1/4 in a tad over 16s.

MotorTrend says 0-60 in 6.7 for the '08, 7.0 for the '04 RL.

I have driven the 08 XR and the acceleration seems sluggish compared to the V6 3.5 Honda VUE ( 07 Which I just traded) for an 07 Rav4 V6 and I can most definitely tell you the 08 VUE in no way has the muscle car acceleration of the Rav4. Ravs are going thu the quarter in the mid 14's.
Car and Driver stated the 08 VUE is no match for the straight line acceleration of the Toyota V6 and I can tell you from driving both it is not!

http://www.caranddriver.com/previews/12999/first-drive-2008-saturn-vue-xr-awd-more-impressions-page3.html
"The Vue also lags behind competitors in fuel-economy tests, with a 2008 EPA rating of 16 mpg city and 23 highway for the V-6 we drove. A similar V-6 all-wheel-drive Toyota RAV4 is rated at 19/26 mpg ('08 EPA estimates). That truck, by the way, is the straight-line rocket the Vue is not."

Edmunds reviews leave a lot to be desired!

K-1

05-23-2007, 01:10 PM

I have driven the 08 XR and the acceleration seems sluggish compared to the V6 3.5 Honda VUE ( 07 Which I just traded) for an 07 Rav4 V6 and I can most definitely tell you the 08 VUE in no way has the muscle car acceleration of the Rav4. Ravs are going thu the quarter in the mid 14's.You're going to have to back that up with some data.

Car and Driver stated the 08 VUE is no match for the straight line acceleration of the Toyota V6 and I can tell you from driving both it is not!

http://www.caranddriver.com/previews/12999/first-drive-2008-saturn-vue-xr-awd-more-impressions-page3.html
"The Vue also lags behind competitors in fuel-economy tests, with a 2008 EPA rating of 16 mpg city and 23 highway for the V-6 we drove. A similar V-6 all-wheel-drive Toyota RAV4 is rated at 19/26 mpg ('08 EPA estimates). That truck, by the way, is the straight-line rocket the Vue is not."

Edmunds reviews leave a lot to be desired!You'll notice C&D didn't actually mention a specific 0-60 time or 1/4 mile time. What you feel, seem, etc. is irrelevant without hard numbers. On the fuel economy front, let's wait and see some real world numbers. The EPA estimates were bad enough before and the 2008 testing is even worse.

ciciusss

05-23-2007, 01:53 PM

K-1

I agree that the 3.6 DOHC V6 should not be a concern from a reliability point of view. It is also an outstanding engine and has been praised among the automotive community (Consumer Report's has particularly praised this engine). It seems to get better performance numbers than it's horsepower/ torque numbers would otherwise indicate.

I'm a big fan of the Honda 3.5 V6 and 5 speed automatic powertrain combination that the 04-07 Vue's came equipped. But, the GM powertrain in the 08 Vue XR is every bit as refined.

As for gas mileage, I think most will find that the real world mpg figures will be about equal between the 07 V6 Vue's and the Vue XR's equipped with the DOHC V6.

MarvC

05-23-2007, 02:00 PM

You're going to have to back that up with some data.
You'll notice C&D didn't actually mention a specific 0-60 time or 1/4 mile time. What you feel, seem, etc. is irrelevant without hard numbers. On the fuel economy front, let's wait and see some real world numbers. The EPA estimates were bad enough before and the 2008 testing is even worse.

There are several who are taking the Ravs to the drag strip believe it or not.
I would not dare do this to our car. The V6 3.6 XR coupled to an added 500lbs feels sluggish in comparisons to the 07 VUE's thats a lot of added mass to drag around for 257 HP.
The Rav is at 3500-3560lbs.

As far as times go here.
It is the Rav4 forum, many of them have a blast with the cars.
Stock running 14.9 14.7.
http://rav4world.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=10543

I questioned the times so several scanned the time stamp from the strip and emailed it to several of the members.
The Ravs are wickedly fast!

junie

05-23-2007, 02:07 PM

SaturnPlanet

05-23-2007, 02:11 PM

The funny thing is that the VUEs have ALWAYS lagged behind the major competition in CR and other publications, and many people know that, and still buy them. I wonder why?

Well, as anyone in the business knows, most people do not buy off the numbers. The like the way the car looks, drives, feels, smells, sounds, tastes, etc, etc, etc. The positive numbers (safety, mileage, or whatever) just serve as justification to purchase the car they REALLY want (whether that is a Saturn, Toyota, or anything else).

People buy what they like. bottom line. Actually the psychology behind first impressions is incredible, I mean think about it. You see car. You either like or don't like it, and depending on that initial impression, your interpretation of the facts before you (including those of the senses) will vary.

Ask anyone in automotive sales. How many times has a customer brushed aside their OWN objections because of some seemingly insignificant reason (like the kid who buys the ION because he was told he can plug his iPod into it....that one fact may have been all it took). People will dismiss performance numbers simply because they like the way the steering wheel feels. That my friend, is a fact.

There is an ***** for every seat. I hope the VUE sells. I personally could not stand the old style of the VUEs, but I've sold a ton of them. We'll just have to see.

MarvC

05-23-2007, 02:19 PM

Drove the '08 Vue XR again today....sluggish is not the word that comes to mind. Responsive with plenty of power is more apt. Off the line or for passing. Somehow I thing the extra weight has already managed to create an imagined perception of the '08's performance. The open mind evaluation, I believe, will find the 3.6 L performance very good.

It is going to be the decision of the buyer, all the posting is the world are only individual thoughts and feelings of the new VUE as far as driving and evaluating the car.
It will meet the needs of many of the drivers, there is not a car out that that will satisfy everyone thus everyone has a choice.
This is not intended get into a flame war with anyone, I have owned the 07 3.5L VUE driven the XR and now own the Rav4 Limited V6.
I have had the opportunity's to drive the turbo sky's, Aura XR, XEas well as about every auto Saturn makes from 07 to anything current.
I own two 07 Ions one is a redline, my son works as a tech at the Saturn Dealership so was able to spend quite a bit of time going thru the new VUE's.
I am excited about the new VUE and I feel Opel has done a pretty good job, Saturn should do very well with this car.
People buy off impressions and ride quality not specs on the average anyway.
If the VUE fits the bill then buy it no one else will make your car payments.
I have seen a few of the posts you have made and this will go no further but you really should take some of the postings outside of the forum you are having with several of the members within the forum.

Many Thanks and have a good one.

K-1

05-23-2007, 03:15 PM

As far as times go here.
It is the Rav4 forum, many of them have a blast with the cars.
Stock running 14.9 14.7.
http://rav4world.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=10543I didn't find a "mid-14" in that thread, nor did I find timeslips. I did find a 14.9 1/4 mile run with 91 octane, no spare tire, and tires pumped to 40psi though. Do we have an XR time under those conditions? Nope, so it's irrelevant at this point.

Spazie

05-23-2007, 03:52 PM

junie

05-23-2007, 03:57 PM

It is going to be the decision of the buyer, all the posting is the world are only individual thoughts and feelings of the new VUE as far as driving and evaluating the car.
It will meet the needs of many of the drivers, there is not a car out that that will satisfy everyone thus everyone has a choice.
This is not intended get into a flame war with anyone, I have owned the 07 3.5L VUE driven the XR and now own the Rav4 Limited V6.
I have had the opportunity's to drive the turbo sky's, Aura XR, XEas well as about every auto Saturn makes from 07 to anything current.
I own two 07 Ions one is a redline, my son works as a tech at the Saturn Dealership so was able to spend quite a bit of time going thru the new VUE's.
I am excited about the new VUE and I feel Opel has done a pretty good job, Saturn should do very well with this car.
People buy off impressions and ride quality not specs on the average anyway.
If the VUE fits the bill then buy it no one else will make your car payments.
I have seen a few of the posts you have made and this will go no further but you really should take some of the postings outside of the forum you are having with several of the members within the forum.

Many Thanks and have a good one.

Gee Marv...thanks for the advice, but if you would take the time to further explore any comments made in regards to any of my original posts about liking the the Vue versus the '07 and subsequent attacks by those that disagree and even seem outraged that I would even consider such an atrocity you might have a different opinion about who should as you suggest..."really should take some of the postings outside of the forum" . Unless you too are grouped into that category. In fact, you may be. My only comment to you that seems to have bowed your back was...."sluggish is not the word that comes to mind. Responsive with plenty of power is more apt". Now, I ask..is that offensive and should be taken off line - and who made you the forum police anyway...my we are sensitive here, aren't we?

Many Thanks and have a good one.

MarvC

05-23-2007, 04:04 PM

It has nothing to do with the evaluation of the car and please this is not to continue the threads which have been posted on other threads with other forum members
It is just the back and fourth threads seem personal rather than topical.
That is all it was meant to be nothing more nothing less and yes that was my opinion and mine only after spending some time in the VUE along with the Saturn techs, my apologies if it differs from your opinion but right now at this point that is all these are nothing more nothing less.
Touchy no considerate yes.
My apologies.

Have a great day and may the wind be at your back.:)

Spazie

05-23-2007, 04:09 PM

It is just the back and fourth threads seem personal rather than topical.

Yeah, I've noticed that too. And it carries on throughout multiple threads.

DesertPuma

05-23-2007, 04:52 PM

Wow, this thread derailed pretty fast. :ugh:

Not surprising considering no one can post anything on these boards anymore without everyone jumping all over everything they say. Amazing how every single post in this particular forum has become an argument over mundane, and usually irrelevant, information.

Get it back on topic folks. This isn't a thread about the VUE vs. the Rav4. It's about a real live person sitting in the back of the VUE and giving a sales person's opinion.

I know I have given up. :rolleyes:

To me it's real simple, either you don't like its looks or you do. Me, I don't like it. I am talking about styling, not materials now. (I don't care what's on the inside, it doesn't matter.) 'Nuff said.

mellissam

05-23-2007, 06:52 PM

Yeah, I've noticed that too. And it carries on throughout multiple threads.

Yeah, aren't we one big happy family!! :) :) :)
I am not sure if I am partially to blame, but if I am, I apologize...I was having too much fun...LOL

I do hope the new VUE takes the world by storm(and Aura, Sky etc.)...and many years from now, folks will come up to my breadbox, and say "Wow!, that's a Saturn!". :yes:

greyhound bus

05-23-2007, 11:11 PM

Spazie

05-24-2007, 02:24 AM

MarvC

05-24-2007, 06:43 AM

As many on the forum have stated you will either totally love the new design or walk away from the car.
When I saw the car in person I thought the pictures we have seen on the net were awe inspiring not so in real life.
I hope the car does well the design is just very odd looking to some.
My son thinks the car is a let down in exterior design but that is his opinion all he has to do is work on the Saturns for a living
It will be an individual thing, I still believe. they will sell the heck out of the car. The upgraded interior is very nice in F/F.
Performance in the real world is yet to be seen.

Many Thanks...:)

K-1

05-24-2007, 08:19 AM

Just to stir the pot some more: My wife has spoken on the subject.Was is accompanied by trumpets and joyous music? Well, if she doesn't like it, gee, I'm totally a convert now. The new VUE is totally the suxxors!

OTOH, my wife (also a typical consumer) thinks the new VUE looks better. She didn't like the boxiness of the old VUE and, had the '08 been out in '05, would be driving it instead of the 'Nox. I guess we cancel each other out then, eh?

junie

05-24-2007, 08:28 AM

Personally, and this is only my opinion so don't anybody take it personally. I like the new Vue. Inside and out. There I said it.

mellissam

05-24-2007, 09:05 AM

Personally, and this is only my opinion so don't anybody take it personally. I like the new Vue. Inside and out. There I said it.

Really!?
I won't. Your geting personal on us...and I hardly know you...:D
BTW- you've said it many times....;)
I like someone who sticks to their guns, sort of speak.....
Karl Rove, you better buy one...Saturn needs all the help it can get.

junie

05-24-2007, 09:08 AM

Really!?
I won't. Your geting personal on us...and I hardly know you...:D
BTW- you've said it many times....;)
I like someone who sticks to their guns, sort of speak.....
Karl Rove, you better buy one...Saturn needs all the help it can get.

Wow.

Have a good day (I think)

SaturnPlanet

05-24-2007, 02:05 PM

After a few trips in it, its growing on me. At first I didn't like the 3 air vents in the middle, but after some time in it, it actually doesn't look bad at all, the door handles, parking brake, steering wheel and vents seem to flow together.

If I had to choose, I would rather have the 08' than earlier MY, but that is primarily because of design, not function. like I said, at first I didn't like its looks (thought it looked like a wagon high off the ground), but its growing on me, and I'm not really an SUV guy. (I'm an AWEsome guy...:yes: )

Pete93SL1M

05-24-2007, 09:38 PM

I Finally got to drive one. Just in today, 08 XE V6 AWD with standard equipment and foglamps only, Deep Blue with tan cloth interior.

1. Yes, it feels a little smaller inside. I'm 5'11 about 175 so I don't have a hugh jass pushing me forward but I felt the driver's seat was pleasantly bolstered under my thighs, but I can see where some people would feel the cushions were not long enough. Same thought on the back seat. The back seat reclines further in the 08 than the 07.
2. The ride is great. Much more controlled and "nailed down" than the 07, but the firm suspension also launched me briefly in the air when I hit my favorite "suspension compliance dip". This thing is a LOT more fun to drive. I actually laughed out loud.
The XE with the 222HP 3.5 is definitely not as quick as the 07, but is a little more progressive with the throttle inputs. By contrast, The 07 ETC seems a little agressive off the line (as in, you push the throttle 10%, it opens 25% giving the feeling of more than actual power). I don't miss the EPS at all.

My gripes are few:
new steering wheel controls do not allow you to seek, only switch between presets.
I'm now so used to telescoping steering wheels that any new vehicle without them is a small disappointment.
Cup holders are back on the floor. I don't drink and drive except on a road trip where I like to keep a bottle of water handy so it's not a big deal for me, but for the long-commuters with their coffees it may be an issue.

Stuff I learned:
Gas door locks with the doors/tailgate
I don't miss the cargo organizer
BobbyP needs to drive one before overanalyzing the numbers any more (ok, I knew that one already, you engineer/magazine racer types always do that to me). :p

I'm still not buying one, not my type of vehicle, but I think I'll spend less time apologizing for the new VUEs quirks than the old :yes:

cdp326

05-24-2007, 09:44 PM

I checked two 2008 VUEs out today: a silver XE V6 AWD and a gold XE I4 FWD w/ the Preferred Package. Didn't drive them, only sat in them. I'll post some impressions here instead of making a whole new thread.

I think the main loss of the rear cargo area was in its height: the newer one looks to have a higher load floor.

The front seats have improved mainly in the way they are shaped: there is no ridge framing the top of the front seats like before.

Cupholders for the rear seat look better than both the 2002-05 and the 2006-07 VUEs.

The rear seat has greatly improved. I do think it has lost a bit of legroom, but the thing was, the seat on the old VUE was so low that the legroom had to be used for your legs to spread out. I think the seat could stand to be a little bit higher, but the shaping of the seat is comfortable and it's at a fairly good angle.

Edit: I think the front cupholders are higher than in the 2002-05 VUE. At the least, they are not buried between the front seats like the were before.

Barry

05-26-2007, 09:24 PM

Spazie, you and I go way back and I value your opinions. We have had our Outlook XR for 1 1/2 mos now. We sold the wifes Sky and 06 Vue to purchase it. I love it, she on the other hand is upset w/ the mpg...consistantly 20 mpg combined! After reading all the reports of the new Vue...it get's about the same combined mpg. She is seriously considering the new Vue. My Sky RL goes in the shop next week for a few days and the management team will let me have the new Vue while it's in. I realy didn't care for the ride or performance of our 06 Vue so I'm not at this point realy excited about the 08. She now drives 120 miles a day ( round trip). She has been using my Sky Rl because of my mpg (29 ) versus hers ( 6300lbs ) at 20 mpg. Any thought's?

BobbyP

05-27-2007, 12:37 AM

IMO feel interior comfort, ride, and drive-ability is more important than how it looks outside. I wouldn't own a car that looks great and is uncomfortable to ride in.

If they come out with the plug in hybrid version, I would seriously consider it. They would have to have a good warranty to cover the hybrid technology.

Pete93SL1M

05-27-2007, 01:45 PM

...I love it, she on the other hand is upset w/ the mpg...consistantly 20 mpg combined! After reading all the reports of the new Vue...it get's about the same combined mpg. She is seriously considering the new Vue. My Sky RL goes in the shop next week for a few days and the management team will let me have the new Vue while it's in. I realy didn't care for the ride or performance of our 06 Vue so I'm not at this point realy excited about the 08. She now drives 120 miles a day ( round trip). She has been using my Sky Rl because of my mpg (29 ) versus hers ( 6300lbs ) at 20 mpg. Any thought's?

2008 adjusted EPA MPG figures for the Outlook show 16/24 and 19 combined. Your wife is exactly where she should be in the Outlook, which is 4700-4750lbs including a full tank of gas (curb weight- don't confuse that with GVWR which is the maximum weight of vehicle plus passengers and cargo)
The Outlook would be more efficient for such a huge commute only if you use it to carpool. Each additional passenger would increase the "passenger mpg" by the average, yours being 20MPG so 2 passengers = 40pMPG, 3= 60pMPG tho after 2-3 people the additional weight may reduce actual MPG by 1 or 2.

I think she lives too far from work, which stinks for her and you. If she is going to continue to drive that far to work and you want to save money, changing cars every 1-2 years is the wrong way to do it. Keep what you have now. Wait until next calendar year when we hear more about the dual-mode VUE Hybrid (if they do that to Aura too it could be even better for the same powertrain due to better aerodynamics).

MJD1001

05-27-2007, 03:17 PM

Just to stir the pot some more: My wife has spoken on the subject. Now my wife is very much an average car consumer. She doesn't know anything about cars and doesn't want to. She has no aligiance to brands, she just knows what cars she likes. She has never seen a single picture of the 08' Vue, so I took her by the dealer tonight to show them to her. First, she was looking right at two new ones and didn't know they were Vues. When I pointed them out, her honest to God response was: "My God, they ruined it! What the hell did they do my Vue? That thing is *****! There is no way in hell I would ever buy that. God strike me dead if I am lying. Take it for what it's worth....

I have a similar story from the opposite perspective.

My cousin is always looking for a new car. He cares about looks, but more so he is a huge spec sheet guy. We saw the new Vue (and the redline) at the NY auto show. He was interested in it.

After reading the reviews and seeing the specs, he is no longer in any way interested in it. I played devil's advocate with him about it, saying it may not be as fast on paper or it may not 'feel' it has the extra weight over the Rav4, but he didn't care. If it has less power than the Rav4, and weighs more than the Rav4, and the reveiws in so far say it is slower than the Rav4...he is no longer interested. I bring this up because there are many buyers like that and THAT is what GM is up against.

GM can no longer afford to say "but trust us, it DRIVES good even though the specs dont' match up vs the competition". That may go over with GM loyalists...but it's not going over well with many potential new buyers.

cdp326

05-27-2007, 10:28 PM

My cousin is always looking for a new car. He cares about looks, but more so he is a huge spec sheet guy. We saw the new Vue (and the redline) at the NY auto show. He was interested in it.

After reading the reviews and seeing the specs, he is no longer in any way interested in it. I played devil's advocate with him about it, saying it may not be as fast on paper or it may not 'feel' it has the extra weight over the Rav4, but he didn't care. If it has less power than the Rav4, and weighs more than the Rav4, and the reveiws in so far say it is slower than the Rav4...he is no longer interested. I bring this up because there are many buyers like that and THAT is what GM is up against.
Are there any other specs that he considers? I wouldn't be surprised if the RAV4 costs more to repair in the event of a low-speed rear impact because of the outside-mounted hanging spare tire.
It's unfortunate that he goes only by the specs. Two cars and two tests are rarely alike...in 0-60 tests of the Aura XR and Camry V6 (with the Camry having a bit more power and weighing a bit less), some show the Aura at 6.2 seconds and the Camry at 5.9, and others show the Aura at 5.9 and Camry at 6.1.
Does handling account for anything with him? That's something equally important that doesn't show in specs sheets.

BobbyP

05-28-2007, 01:45 AM

Are there any other specs that he considers? I wouldn't be surprised if the RAV4 costs more to repair in the event of a low-speed rear impact because of the outside-mounted hanging spare tire.
It's unfortunate that he goes only by the specs. Two cars and two tests are rarely alike...in 0-60 tests of the Aura XR and Camry V6 (with the Camry having a bit more power and weighing a bit less), some show the Aura at 6.2 seconds and the Camry at 5.9, and others show the Aura at 5.9 and Camry at 6.1.
Does handling account for anything with him? That's something equally important that doesn't show in specs sheets.

Insurance costs, the VUE historically has had low rates.

Unfortunate for Saturn, but Toyota has done a great job redesigning the new RAV4. It has been improved in every category.

tackepj

05-28-2007, 09:42 AM

After reading the reviews and seeing the specs, he is no longer in any way interested in it. I played devil's advocate with him about it, saying it may not be as fast on paper or it may not 'feel' it has the extra weight over the Rav4, but he didn't care. If it has less power than the Rav4, and weighs more than the Rav4, and the reveiws in so far say it is slower than the Rav4...he is no longer interested. I bring this up because there are many buyers like that and THAT is what GM is up against.

GM can no longer afford to say "but trust us, it DRIVES good even though the specs dont' match up vs the competition". That may go over with GM loyalists...but it's not going over well with many potential new buyers.

Has the uber-powerful RAV4 ripped the majority of sales away from the Honda CR-V? Not by a long shot, and that only has a 4-cylinder. One spec is one spec. Even the Ford Escape has retained decent sales with a relatively wimpy V6.

Maybe I'm alone in this regard, but pin-your-ears-back power is just not that much of a concern to me in a compact SUV.

BobbyP

05-28-2007, 01:10 PM

Has the uber-powerful RAV4 ripped the majority of sales away from the Honda CR-V? Not by a long shot, and that only has a 4-cylinder. One spec is one spec. Even the Ford Escape has retained decent sales with a relatively wimpy V6.

Maybe I'm alone in this regard, but pin-your-ears-back power is just not that much of a concern to me in a compact SUV.

I like the new Ford Escapes exterior., but the center console is a disaster. The engine isn't a barn stormer like the L66, but it was more refined than a 4 cylinder would have.

The radio display is located in a DIC mounted at the top of the console. The actual radio is much lower in the console. The radio controls are blended in with the AC and other controls. Not very intuitive.

s-seriesguy

05-28-2007, 05:58 PM

cdp326

05-28-2007, 06:07 PM

I finally saw some 08 Vues on the dealer lot. After seeing them in person, my opinion on them has not changed on bit since seeing them in pictures. They absolutely suck. I don't see any improvements in materials in the interior, it looks cheap with just a different layout. The seats don't look any better. The exterior, yeah it looks horrible.

Maybe you don't want to see improvements.

Use the turn signal or wiper stalk of a 2007 VUE. Then use the same stalk on a 2008 VUE.
Sit in the back seat of a 2007 VUE. Then sit in the back seat of a 2008 VUE.

s-seriesguy

05-28-2007, 09:15 PM

Maybe you don't want to see improvements.

Use the turn signal or wiper stalk of a 2007 VUE. Then use the same stalk on a 2008 VUE.
Sit in the back seat of a 2007 VUE. Then sit in the back seat of a 2008 VUE.
For a totally redesigned vehicle the only imporvements are signal levers, a different positied rear seat, lame-o traction control, and the 2.4L? The over use of cheap black plastic molding everwhere is definately not an improvement, along with the exterior looks.

cdp326

05-28-2007, 10:22 PM

For a totally redesigned vehicle the only imporvements are signal levers, a different positied rear seat, lame-o traction control, and the 2.4L?
No, there are more improvements. Like I said, though, you probably don't want to see them. Are there faults? Yeah, of course...but it's not like the old VUE was much better.
If you've ever sat in the back of a 2002-07 VUE, you'd understand. It's not just "different" positioned. :rolleyes:
Traction control? The VUE already had that. Stability control is an important safety feature that's new to the VUE.

The over use of cheap black plastic molding everwhere is definately not an improvement, along with the exterior looks.
The XR models have a monotone exterior color scheme.
The only pre-2006 VUEs that didn't have black plastic molding were the non-Red Line models, so basically most of the VUEs sold in that time period. This connects the new VUEs to the old.
Looks are an opinion.

BobbyP

05-28-2007, 10:29 PM

cdp326

05-28-2007, 10:44 PM

Sit in the front seat and discover the 2" that disappeared...
Try it for yourself. :yes: The front seat went back really far in the old VUE...you never know.

BobbyP

05-28-2007, 10:52 PM

Maybe you don't want to see improvements.

Use the turn signal or wiper stalk of a 2007 VUE. Then use the same stalk on a 2008 VUE.
Sit in the back seat of a 2007 VUE. Then sit in the back seat of a 2008 VUE.

I do appreciate good accurate operating controls on a car, the old VUE's wiper stalk is a disgrace. The turn signal stalk is much better than the turn signal on the current VUE and the s-series. The 2008's stalks look a bit goofy, but I'm fine with them if they perform.

The steering wheel is strange looking, I guess that's another thing you need to experience in person to appreciate.

The rear seat releases are just like the Torrent, nice and easy to use. I'm sure they're more comfortable than the one in the current VUE. There is a lot of good in the new VUE's interior.

cdp326

05-28-2007, 11:01 PM

I do appreciate good accurate operating controls on a car, the old VUE's wiper stalk is a disgrace. The turn signal stalk works. Much better than the turn signal on the s-series. The 2008's stalks look a bit goofy, but I'm fine with them if they perform.
The turn signal stalk on the old VUE isn't any better than the wiper stalk, IMO...and I have to say that I think that my 1994 S has better stalks than the old VUE. :p (The 2nd-generation and later S-Series weren't as good as the 1st-generation, IMO.) The new VUE's stalks do operate much better, with more of a "click" than a "snap" to them.
The look of the stalks is pretty much an Opel design thing.

The steering wheel is strange looking, I guess that's another thing you need to experience in person to appreciate.
It does look odd, but it doesn't feel bad when you hold it, especially with the silver trim on it--an interesting touch (no pun intended). It seems that, at least with some models like the XE models, tan interiors will get wood trim and gray interiors will get carbon fiber-look trim.

The rear seat releases are just like the Torrent, nice and easy to use. I'm sure they're more comfortable than the one in the current VUE. There is a lot of good in the new VUE's interior.
Like I've said, the new VUE's rear seat is much higher and thus much more comfortable than the old VUE. I do think it could stand to be a bit higher, but it's much better and does have a bit of shape to it now, too. The rear storage and cupholders are better now as well. I think you'll be pleased with the rear seat improvements, BobbyP. :yes:

montrealvue

05-28-2007, 11:18 PM

I'll make my own decisions after driving one, I'm hoping I can put a roof rack on a GL.....then I'll be happy :)

s-seriesguy

05-28-2007, 11:25 PM

No, there are more improvements. Like I said, though, you probably don't want to see them. Are there faults? Yeah, of course...but it's not like the old VUE was much better.
If you've ever sat in the back of a 2002-07 VUE, you'd understand. It's not just "different" positioned. :rolleyes:
I've been in the rear of an 02-07 Vue, and the leg room was fine and comfortable. I can't say I've been in an 08 to compare, but by the looks of the exterior it has been shortened. So I'm sure the supposed rear leg room increase sacrificed leg room or cargo space elsewhere.

The XR models have a monotone exterior color scheme. The only pre-2006 VUEs that didn't have black plastic molding were the non-Red Line models, so basically most of the VUEs sold in that time period. This connects the new VUEs to the old.
Looks are an opinion.
I'm almost sure the XRs I saw had their fair share of place plastic on the fronts from what I saw. I didn't really stare it down too much, the honda crv front styling and nissan murano wannabe rear turned me off almost instantly.

Come one now, are the "stalks" on the steering column so innovative that they get this much attention?

mellissam

05-29-2007, 12:24 AM

I'll make my own decisions after driving one, I'm hoping I can put a roof rack on a GL.....then I'll be happy :)

I hear you! :)
And a trailer hitch....;)

davidsky

05-29-2007, 12:01 PM

2) What is the "Majic" in a 6 speed transmission?

The more "speeds" there are the less of a jump there is between gears. It makes the shifts smoother and you get less of a jolt when shifting.

davidsky

05-29-2007, 12:18 PM

The back seat room will be a problem with some people if it is cramped.
I'd like to try a 4 cylinder just to see if it gets around OK.
All the engines shouldn't be a problem durability wise. The majority of problems with the old VUE were in the body (rattles) and suspension parts.
As far as the Rav4 V6 vs VUE XR. it's a fair comparison. A lot of people won't buy Rav4s due to the rear mounted tire.
The CR-V (with it's weak 4 cylinder only) out sells them both.
Personally I think, barring any horrific reliability problems, that the VUE will sell well based on looks. It looks large enough to hold all your stuff and small and sporty enough to be fun to drive around in. The people who like the squared off look of the old VUE will probably prefer the Escape.
I predict the GL will be the best selling model. I hope they're prepared.

montrealvue

05-29-2007, 02:59 PM

I hear you! :)
And a trailer hitch....;) Opps, forgot that, thanks for reminding me. Roof rack for the cargo box, hitch for the bike carrier.....then I'll be all set!

likeneverbefore

05-29-2007, 03:47 PM

Rear seat room in a 2008 VUE

Thats me in the pictures, and I'm 5'11.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d56/rltronic/PICT6649.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d56/rltronic/PICT6650.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d56/rltronic/PICT6653.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d56/rltronic/PICT6654.jpg

2007 Rear Seat

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d56/rltronic/PICT6700.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d56/rltronic/PICT6702.jpg

BobbyP

05-29-2007, 04:33 PM

The more "speeds" there are the less of a jump there is between gears. It makes the shifts smoother and you get less of a jolt when shifting.

The premise of the 6-8 gears is to keep the rpm's as low as possible at all times to maximize fuel economy.

In the CarConnection review of 2008 VUE they mentioned a jolt at times during shifting. A persons driving techniques can confuse the transmission where it needs to be. The 6T70 transmission is designed to adapt to the driver and should smooth out in time.

Pete93SL1M

05-29-2007, 05:17 PM

Opps, forgot that, thanks for reminding me. Roof rack for the cargo box, hitch for the bike carrier.....then I'll be all set!

Roof rack wasn't available for GL because it will negatively affect your MPG, the reason you buy one. I have pretty good luck steering people from Hybrid to V6 in 07 considering how close in price and *actual* MPG they are.

SaturnPlanet

05-29-2007, 05:22 PM

likeneverbefore

05-29-2007, 05:39 PM

Those shoes look comfortable.

they are very very comfortable , they are called earth shoes,
They have a "negative heel" which is when you heel is lower than your toes.
It sounds odd, but they are really really comfy. I would not be able to work out on the lot for 10+ hours everyday without them.
http://www.earth.us/
check out the website if you want too

montrealvue

05-29-2007, 08:11 PM

Roof rack wasn't available for GL because it will negatively affect your MPG, the reason you buy one. I have pretty good luck steering people from Hybrid to V6 in 07 considering how close in price and *actual* MPG they are.
I heard from my dealer that the roof rack for '08 is a dealer accessory so its not too big an issue. The fuel economy for the '08 V6 models is dismal to say the least (even when considering the new EPA figures). I think your plan might have worked well for the '07's but the '08's will be a different story. What is strange is the Ford Escape Hybrid comes with a standard roof rack yet the Vue's BAS Hybrid doesn't even show it as an option. I can't see a roof rack having that much of a negative impact on MPG when fuel savings are normally with city driving. :xeye:

mellissam

05-29-2007, 08:31 PM

I heard from my dealer that the roof rack for '08 is a dealer accessory so its not too big an issue. The fuel economy for the '08 V6 models is dismal to say the least (even when considering the new EPA figures). I think your plan might have worked well for the '07's but the '08's will be a different story. What is strange is the Ford Escape Hybrid comes with a standard roof rack yet the Vue's BAS Hybrid doesn't even show it as an option. I can't see a roof rack having that much of a negative impact on MPG when fuel savings are normally with city driving. :xeye:

I agree. Having to strip down a VUE so much so it gets reasonable mpgs is silly. I still want the 'SUV' part. Ridding the hybrid of the roof rails is a killer for folks like me....I'd like to go camping, haul junk, lumber etc. I'd lose mpgs no matter what I drove. Thankfully the Hybrid 08, as noted above, will have the roof rails as an option.

davidsky

05-29-2007, 09:43 PM

they are very very comfortable , they are called earth shoes,
They have a "negative heel" which is when you heel is lower than your toes.
It sounds odd, but they are really really comfy. I would not be able to work out on the lot for 10+ hours everyday without them.
http://www.earth.us/
check out the website if you want too

Wow, I remember earthshoes from the 1970s. Figured they just disappeared.

Spazie

05-29-2007, 09:56 PM

Barry - I appreciate your comments. :) I would say your wife would most likely be very content with an 08 VUE. She needs to spend some quality time in one, decide what she didn't like about the 06 and see if the 08 has improved in that regard. She also needs to decide what she liked about it, and see if the 08 has remained the same or improved in that area. However, I think she will be disappointed in the fuel mileage, as it is not any better than the 06's - in fact, it may be worse. It is probably slightly better than the Outlook's, but not substantially so. She may look into an Aura XE if she wants higher fuel economy. I know you guys like your cars fully optioned, so an XE may seem like a "step down" but you don't really notice the 25 hp difference, and it will get a slight improvement in mileage.

montrealvue and melissam - We just sold a hybrid VUE yesterday and put a trailer hitch on it for the customer. It can tow 1500 lbs just like any other 4 cylinder. You can put a roof rack on it the same way we put one on our Red Line - use the 02-05 cross bars. The 08's will not have that ability as the built in side roof tracks were removed.

Barry

05-30-2007, 09:43 PM

Spazie

05-31-2007, 01:42 PM

Spazie, thank's for the reply. My dealer was nice enough to let us have a 08 Vue while my Sky is in the shop. Neither of us like it. It's not bad, but just not for us. She is now considering the Toyota Prius. She has driven it as I have and although at first I said no way...we both like it. With 15 Saturns under our belt, it looks like we will be breaking tradition for this one. She wants MPG and this little car has it. I sat in the back while she drove ( I'm 6" 1" at 215 lbs) I was comfortable and had head room. God I wish Saturn had one like this.:cry:

Has she tried an Aura yet? The hybrid version is out now, but you can't put a whole lot of options - for leather, you have to go aftermarket. It doesn't get as good as the Prius as far as gas mileage, but it would keep you in the Saturn family! Even without the hybrid, the XE gets decent mileage, especially for a V6.

Spazie

06-01-2007, 12:17 PM

montrealvue and melissam - We just sold a hybrid VUE yesterday and put a trailer hitch on it for the customer. It can tow 1500 lbs just like any other 4 cylinder. You can put a roof rack on it the same way we put one on our Red Line - use the 02-05 cross bars. The 08's will not have that ability as the built in side roof tracks were removed.

Thought I'd post this pic up for you guys ... I thought it was pretty funny that we'd just talked about this scenario yesterday, and I see that not only have they put on a trailer hitch, they added roof rack cross bars!

This is on an 07 hybrid VUE.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v320/violakat03/000_1261.jpg

cdp326

06-01-2007, 02:30 PM

I've been in the rear of an 02-07 Vue, and the leg room was fine and comfortable. I can't say I've been in an 08 to compare, but by the looks of the exterior it has been shortened. So I'm sure the supposed rear leg room increase sacrificed leg room or cargo space elsewhere.
:no:
It's about much more than the legroom. The rear seat in the old VUE is poor. It's too low to the floor for adult comfort. The reason you needed the rear legroom in the old VUE is because that's where you had to splay your legs out. The new VUE's rear seat is more chairlike, which is what it's supposed to be in an SUV. The old VUE's rear seat required a "sqautlike" position.

I'm almost sure the XRs I saw had their fair share of place plastic on the fronts from what I saw. I didn't really stare it down too much, the honda crv front styling and nissan murano wannabe rear turned me off almost instantly.
I'm not sure if many dealers have XRs yet. They seem to mostly be sending out XEs initially. In any event, that's a model trim difference that's one way or the other.

Come one now, are the "stalks" on the steering column so innovative that they get this much attention?
No, but they wouldn't be getting attention like this if the old VUE's stalks didn't snap into place as they do.

TPFilm

06-15-2007, 11:22 PM

Gotta throw my 2 cents in...

Saturn of ILM got a few '08 VUEs in. I thought they looked better in person than in the pictures. Looks more car-like which is the trend in the small SUVs (oops, I meant CUV!) The only traditional boxy small SUVs are the ones that do what they are suppossed to - Liberty (funny that Jeep killed-off the Cherokee, brought in the Liberty then redesigned the Liberty so that it looks like an old Cherokee!), Grand Vitara, Xtera, Wrangler.

One of the things we like about our '05 VUE is the traditional SUV styling. Also the fact that it felt and was bigger than the then-current RAV4's and CRV's. The old VUE stood out more and was easy for my wife (and her friends) to find in parking lots. Not to mention we bought it in that cool blue color that changes color in different light. A color that went away in '06 and '07. Seems to be back now.

Taking the VUE in for service tomorrow. Will try to get a test drive in and maybe take a side-by-side pic and post them here.

BTW: the '08s that Saturn of ILM had window stickers that said something like: "Window sticker not complete. Vehicle not allowed to be placed on sales lot or allowed to be demonstrated." There was no information for standard features or options. No pricing info, etc. Anyone else see stickers like that on models on their dealer lots? Any sales consutants want to explain the sticker? Are these the models that they put on showroom floor never to be sold?

cdp326

06-15-2007, 11:52 PM

BTW: the '08s that Saturn of ILM had window stickers that said something like: "Window sticker not complete. Vehicle not allowed to be placed on sales lot or allowed to be demonstrated." There was no information for standard features or options. No pricing info, etc. Anyone else see stickers like that on models on their dealer lots? Any sales consutants want to explain the sticker? Are these the models that they put on showroom floor never to be sold?
I've seen some new VUEs like that. I remember something similar done when the Outlook debuted. I don't understand it either.

Pete93SL1M

06-16-2007, 09:35 AM

BTW: the '08s that Saturn of ILM had window stickers that said something like: "Window sticker not complete. Vehicle not allowed to be placed on sales lot or allowed to be demonstrated." There was no information for standard features or options. No pricing info, etc. Anyone else see stickers like that on models on their dealer lots? Any sales consutants want to explain the sticker? Are these the models that they put on showroom floor never to be sold?

Sometimes the vehicles are ready before the MSRP stickers. The stickers are sent seperately to replace the shipping labels. The vehicles can not legally be sold without proper labeling.

TPFilm

06-17-2007, 12:12 AM

Sigh... it's officially the end of an era!

http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/showphoto.php/photo/42416/size/big/cat//ppuser/15204

Sorry about quality. Taken w/ 2 megapixel camera phone.

mellissam

06-17-2007, 12:18 AM

Sigh... it's officially the end of an era!

http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/showphoto.php/photo/42416/size/big/cat//ppuser/15204

Sorry about quality. Taken w/ 2 megapixel camera phone.

Yep, 36% parts from Mexico.....so sad, too bad. :p
Engine and transmission from good old USA though.....

TPFilm

06-17-2007, 12:42 AM

So. I drove an '08 VUE XE today.

First of all... Saturn of ILM has them hidden (they have 6 total on the lot.) You have to ask about them to get anywhere. The consultant explained that they have 30 '07s on the lot and they are afraid that if people see the '08 they will buy it and ignore the '07. I smell a Saturn firesale comiing soon... all '07s must go! Heavy incentives!

Anyway, I drove a gold one.

Interior: nicely done. The dash materials looked better than in our '05. Over all fit and finish seemed about the same as our '05 (I don't care what anyone says... our '05 has been a solid, rattle-free vehicle since we got in March '05. Of course we only have 21800 miles on it (wife doesn't work and Wilmington is pretty small!) but it has been solid for us and we don't abuse it... It's an SUV not a 350Z!) I did notice that there were some fingerprint smudges around the grab handle on the rear left passenger side and some similar smudges midroof in cargo area. Also noticed that the tray liner on the cubby hole on the left rear fender well was not even. Kind of worried about quality. There's a reason Mexicans are paid $2.00 (or whatever it is) an hour...

The rear cargo area is noticeably smaller than the original VUE. The slant from belt line to roof eats into the useable space. I have managed to pack quite a bit of stuff into the cargo area on our '05... Don't think same amount would fit in '08 (large, hard shell Samsonite 36" suitcase, smaller bag, shoe boxes, umbrella stroller, etc.) I do like the fact that the rear seats actually fold flat and create a real flat surface. I sort of miss the rear organizer - we never use ours because there's a large folded Jeep three wheel stroller that has permanent residence in the VUE - but I don't see many people consistently using the under floor storage - the pockets are too small and the space too cramped for anything bigger than a small purse or camera bag.

The rear seat leg room is, in my opinion actually overated. I sat behind the driver's seat which was set for me - all the way back. I am 6' even and felt cramped in the back seat, behind the driver. I have never actually ridden in our VUE's back seat but have been back there several times and have had no problem moving around removing/installing the car seat. I feel that the '08 would be a little more difficult. I do like the center arm rest and the closeable storage space in the console.

The driver's seat felt firm yet comfortable. The fabric of the seats is a pleasing, tight weave. I like it better than that in the old model. The dashboard looks great with a minimalist arrangement:
http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/showphoto.php/photo/42417/ppuser/15204
I do think that the 140mPh speedo is a bit on the ambitious side. I like the standard GM audio controls. The unit is the same as found in the Aura, etc. The air blew strong and quickly cooled off the inside. The doors shut with a resounding thunk. Gone are the lighter polymer doors that could be shut quietly when needed.

The engine, well, its a 4 cylinder! What can you expect? The power felt similar to our '05. Good pick-up. Was doing 70 (in a 55 zone) before I realized it! I liked the "manual" feature but I think it is more a gimmick than a preformance piece. I did notice that there seemed to be a bit more spunk when using the "manual" feature!

The ride is a bit softer but not car like. You still feel like you are in an SUV. Just one with a better ride. The steering was nimble, but plain like the original.

The digital information that was in the mirror is now in the dash. There is also a display of where the shifter is (when in "manual" it shows 1-4.)

The most obviosuly non-Saturn thing of all (besides no polymer panels :tear: ...) the window controls are now on the door!

Overall: I like it. Like the original better but when the lease is up at the end of '08...

By the way... took wife by Saturn of ILM. She said: "...it kind of looks like that [Nissan Murano] that you had awhile back. It looks a little more aggressive. But it has a cute butt." Ahh... my wife...;)

http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/showphoto.php/photo/42419/ppuser/15204
http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/showphoto.php/photo/42418/ppuser/15204
http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/showphoto.php/photo/42420/ppuser/15204

BobbyP

06-17-2007, 01:23 AM

Nice write up TPFilm!

I like the metal work design of the body, but dislike the exaggerated front and rear bumpers. It may take a few months to work out the quality bugs in the interior.

mellissam

06-17-2007, 12:34 PM

I agree...nice write-up TPFilm! I also like the side-by-side pictures of the 07/08 Vue...Pictures really show the differences....I can see how they managed to get a higher rear seat configuration in the 08 (note the bumper heights = cargo floor heights = seat heights - for the most part). The rear hatch width at bottom seems to favour the 07 by a wide margin. The 08 front looks good, just wish they didn't use a chrome belt to hold the emblem (if they did it like the 07 it would be perfect). I am not a fan of the 07 chrome bow-tie (above rear license plate), the 08 is clean, just an emblem.

Tough call, I like the 07 exterior (more squared off), but the 08 interior is quite nice (except the IP, which reminds me of an old Star Trek movie)...of course, the drivetrain (mechanicals) is much improved in the 08, from all accounts. Sell Sell Sell Saturn! :)

TPFilm

06-17-2007, 01:27 PM

Just realized that the '07 next to the '08 is a Hybrid. Which has a lower ground clearance than standard.

John10

06-29-2007, 11:34 AM

I was at my retailer for service this morning and took the opportunity to test drive two 08 VUE XEs. One was a FWD with a 2.4 L 4 and the other was an AWD equipped with a 6. Both vehicle handled and rode better than our current 05 VUE and I was pleased with the interior improvements and features. The only thing I liked better on my curent VUE was the available cargo space from the top of the rear seat to the interior of the roof. There was indeed some space lost as a concession to the new exterior design. My biggest interest however was to compare the VUE equipped with the 2.4 to the 6 in terms of performance. I am extremely pleased with the 2.4 L in my ION3 and I wanted to test it in a larger vehicle. My conclusion after driving both head-to-head is that the VUE XE with a 2.4 performs adequately. It seems to have similar acceleration and high speed highway strain to the current 4 cyl VUE. The VUE equipped with the 6 however well out performed it on the highway on both the onramp and in passing at cruising speed. If I decide to buy this vehicle in the future I will carefully compare the cost and gas mileage benefits of the 2.4L against the 6 because it would take a significant cost advantage to convince me to give up the better performance of the 6.

SaturnPlanet

06-29-2007, 01:50 PM

Kooler King

06-29-2007, 03:03 PM

"Kind of worried about quality. There's a reason Mexicans are paid $2.00 (or whatever it is) an hour..."

I'm sure that cost of living and relative economy have nothing to do with it.....

Those mexicans should stick to making burritos and tacos and piñatas or whatever they make.....(sarcasm intended

There are so many things wrong with that statement. While I don't agree with exporting jobs, being in the industry and working with folks on both sides of the border, I can say from experience the people in the plants in Mexico I have been in are intelligent and have a decent work ethic.

If a product is well designed, it can be well built by people with moderate skill levels, However, if a product is poorly engineered or made from inferior materials, the best craftsman can't save it.

PS: I have had some rather crappy US made tacos from that place with the talking dog ... there's your tax dollars at work, .. 13 years of schoolin' and junior can't make microwave nachos