Clearest 2008 Saturn Vue Spy Shots Yet!

[crj19]

Check them out!
http://news.windingroad.com/auto-news/clearest-2008-saturn-vue-spy-shots-yet/

[20VUE06]

Thanks! Looks very similar to what is out there today from Kia, Hyundai.... Hopefully it'll grow on me like the new '06 model did when it came out.

Looks like it has dual exhaust outlets on the last photo. Also looks like the mirrors on the one photo are white whereas the other two are black. Also, back to black bumpers instead of body colored??? Looks like a hitch on there as well.

[montrealvue]

Thanks for posting the pics....

Looks like GM is keeping its word about trying to keep Saturn's newfound "european heritage". It looks extremely close to the Opel Antara that was unveiled earlier this year. I like it alot (though the white makes it look plain :| ). I guess driving it will be the deciding factor. I am glad to see the 2.4 will replace the 2.2 litre engine. The additional power is much needed.

[BobbyP]

The bumper design looks like this SUV means offroad business.

Strange pipe poking out the front bumper. It looks like the back window still doesn't open. Tail lights scream "Elantra". The dual exhaust pipes spin off a single muffler.

They mentioned two different V6's. Maybe the Honda 3.5L and GM 3.6L? (There was supposed to have been 1 more year left on the Honda technology agreement.)

If they apply the Red Line styling and smooth up the facias it wouldn't look too bad. 300HP would be nice... Maybe it's time to upgrade... :)

The gas door made it to the drivers side. :)

[Galileo]

Thanks for the link! I'm leaning towards trading my '04 Vue in for the Aura but i'm waiting for the '08 Vue to make a final decision... I'll figure it out next summer, i guess! :yes:

[OTownIon]

Thanks! Looks very similar to what is out there today from Kia, Hyundai....

yes.. yes it does
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b281/MrSkippy99/Hyundai-Santa-Fe-0001.jpg

[binkybaby]

It don't look -that- bad, not nearly as bad as i thought at first. Of course to me the 2002-2007 models will always be what a "Vue" really is, maybe they should've picked a different name for this one since it's so different. 300 HP sounds promising though........not like i'm gonna be in a rush to get one and i'm in fact glad i got the '06. :yes:

[sspeer]

yes.. yes it does
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b281/MrSkippy99/Hyundai-Santa-Fe-0001.jpg

I don't think it looks anything like that. Expect a near copy of the Antara

Those spy photos aren't the most flattering, but I'm sure GM disguised it like that on purpose

[SLAPSHOT]

http://news.windingroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2006/09/vue-mule-2.jpg

What's that little white tube looking thing inside the "skid plate"?

[20VUE06]

yes.. yes it does
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b281/MrSkippy99/Hyundai-Santa-Fe-0001.jpg

I don't think it looks like the model that you show. I think it looks more like the latest models from Kia and Hyundai - mostly the new Santa Fe.

[99blacktop]

All I can say is that I won't be buying one. It looks terrible, if that's the real VUE, they definitely went from bad to worse in terms of styling. (All in my humble opinion of course)

[kfraney]

All I can say is that I won't be buying one. It looks terrible, if that's the real VUE, they definitely went from bad to worse in terms of styling. (All in my humble opinion of course)

So you're saying you think the styling on the current VUE is bad?

[walt]

Sadly Americans have not learned the secret the Japanese have. "Don't mess with a good thing"

[peccles]

I like the new styling. I have an '02 VUE and this looks much more streamlined and less boxy. Looks like a good bit of cargo space is gone. Would be nice if at least the V6's came with the 6 speed auto trans. Stabiltrak should be an option, at least, on all models. If they have a manual trans it should be a 6 speed even with the 2.4L. With the extra power it could handle the taller 6th gear. Mine revs at over 3K RPM at 65 in 5th gear and that produces too much engine noise.

[montrealvue]

I like the new styling. I have an '02 VUE and this looks much more streamlined and less boxy. Looks like a good bit of cargo space is gone.


I agree it looks pretty good but if there is less cargo space, forget it, I'm not interested. I need at least what I have now in terms of cargo space with the rear seats up. Any less and its bye-bye Saturn:zzz:

[mellissam]

What's that little white tube looking thing inside the "skid plate"?

That's the machine gun, silly......:p
I like the vue styling over the hyundai styling anyday...the H looks too bug eyed......Its almost too roundy......The vue redesign looks great! Just wish they'd get rid of that fat flashy chrome piece running across the top grill..ugh!
It does look like space is sacrificed, even though the specs say otherwise...
I was worried about the 'v' hood, but it seems to be not as bad at first look....the so-called skid plate with air dam below it seems like a bad idea.
Looking forward to seeing interior pictures.....
Thanks for the link!

[DesertPuma]

Ugh, Ugh, and DOUBLE UGH!

Brenda Priddy & Co. report that the four-door GMT319 will be assembled at General Motors’ Ramos Arizpe, Mexico plant

Make that TRIPLE UGH! (GMT319? I thought it was a supposed to be a "VUE"!), but I really hope it's renamed so the VUE can die with some dignity.

[mellissam]

Here is late addition to their site of the interior .....
http://www.saturnfans.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=7003&stc=1&d=1158711518

Can't see a lot....:(

ps - how do i get the image to show, not just a thumbnail!!....bothers me to no end....

[montrealvue]

I like it but, the more I think about it I gotta say to myself...."really, is that the BEST GM can do?" on paper the specs look fine but I keep can't help feeling that its not going to stand out any more than the current model. Picturing that car next to my current '06 model, I'd choose what I have now. It does have the look of a smaller Kia Sorento. You'd think GM would step it up a notch and eventually "WOW" the market style-wise like Daimler Chrysler has in the last year or two. I guess its like so many other GM models......still a bit plain-jane.

[SLAPSHOT]

Look here's the 2008 Vue!

http://blogs.edmunds.com/.ee90873/cmd.233/embedded..ee90871

Oh wait, that's the Kia Sorento.

Here's the real 2008 Vue:

http://www.cars.com/features/autoshows/2006/newyork/coverage/images/07_Kia_Sorrento_front_eb_430.jpg

Oh crap! That's a Kia Sorento too! I think you guys get my point. :yes:

[20VUE06]

Or is it a Santa Fe?

http://www.hyundaiusa.com/vehicle/santafe/trim/gls.aspx

[99blacktop]

So you're saying you think the styling on the current VUE is bad?Yes, I think that the styling on the '06-'07 is bad compared to the '02-'05. I can't think of more than a couple style changes that I like about the new VUE.

[20VUE06]

Look here's the 2008 Vue!


Oh wait, that's the Kia Sorento.

Here's the real 2008 Vue:



Oh crap! That's a Kia Sorento too! I think you guys get my point. :yes:

Slapshot- Thank you for putting the images up. You hit my point from above dead square on the head. I thought it was a Hyundai that it looked like, but you are right that it was a Kia. Either way, the Santa Fe, Sorento (isn't that a brand of cheese?) and Vue look a lot alike...

[GearGuy]

ps - how do i get the image to show, not just a thumbnail!!....bothers me to no end....
After hitting "Open" in "My Pics", look at the top of the window that pops up. The middle menu provides options for how the pic will display.

[mellissam]

like this....ahhhhhhh...thankyou gearguy!!!!

http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/data/12584/Edge-Glow--on-Lions-Gate-Br_Large_.jpg

[GirlWithAVue]

Look here's the 2008 Vue!

Oh wait, that's the Kia Sorento.

Here's the real 2008 Vue:

Oh crap! That's a Kia Sorento too! I think you guys get my point. :yes:


Personally, IMHO, I think the Kia Sorrento looks better than the 2008 Vue. I have one word to describe it...Yuck. And to think, when all this talk started about the redesign of the Vue, I was worried that I should've waited for the '08. Now that I see it, getting my '06 when I did was the best decision I ever made!

[MarvC]

To me that is one butt ugly design, just buy a Kia.
I am so glad I decided on the 07 design which has the 3.5 L Honda Engine and from the shots a larger more impressive stance automobile!

[kodak_jack]

You already know mine and others' feelings about the plastic panels and 3.5 Honda going away, now you can add PDU (pretty damn ugly) to the list. They've completely screwed this thing up and my choices to replace my VUE in 08 might be the HHR or Equinox. Maybe by then they'll have a RELIABLE V-6 in one or both of them.

[sspeer]

The interior looks nice at least...

The white paint and gray plastic trim isn't working for me...hopefully other colors and trim levels will be better

[sspeer]

Yes, I think that the styling on the '06-'07 is bad compared to the '02-'05. I can't think of more than a couple style changes that I like about the new VUE.

I agree.

The interiors are going in the right direction, but the exteriors aren't. I think the front end is what bothers me most...there are no 'lines' or continuous theme..it looks like they took 5 different designers and told each to draw a different part..then they photoshopped..no wait...MS Paint-ed them together. I hate those headlights and the grill looks too generic..it's like they can't decide to be edgy or soft

[GirlWithAVue]

You already know mine and others' feelings about the plastic panels and 3.5 Honda going away, now you can add PDU (pretty damn ugly) to the list. They've completely screwed this thing up and my choices to replace my VUE in 08 might be the HHR or Equinox. Maybe by then they'll have a RELIABLE V-6 in one or both of them.

Does anyone know if the Equinox will be very similar to this new Vue? I mean, after all, it is GM. Isn't everything going to basically look the same, but just with a different logo slapped on the front? If you look at the grill on the front of this new Vue, it really resembles the front of the current Equinox.

[ajortiz]

One word: *****!!

Makes me even HAPPIER with my '06!

:D

[ajortiz]

Wow! Guess my word got censored...Let me try this: friggin' ugly.
:p

[Web Raven]

http://news.windingroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2006/09/vue-mule-2.jpg

What's that little white tube looking thing inside the "skid plate"?

Finally! They installed a machine gun so I can knock all the slow drivers off the road and out of my way. :D Kidding of course.

I'm actually glad I got the '06 because I seroiusly don't like what they've done looks-wise to the view. It's starting to look too much like every other SUV on the road. What I've always liked about my Vue is that it was unique for the most part. Oh well.

[Web Raven]

That's the machine gun, silly......:p

heh... that's funny because I made my comment before even getting to your post. Nice to know I'm not the only one who could use that option.

[SLAPSHOT]

That's the machine gun, silly......:p


And here I was thinking it was a pitot tube. :D

[fotovue]

Great hideous midget vues, batman!!!!

http://www.lawenforcementforums.com/forums/images/smilies/fear.gif

OMG that thing is so backwards. I really don't know what they were thinking by making it smaller. They claimed that they wanted to distance the vue from the Outlook, well, they succeeded. It's the midget clown car verses the suburban. If the tahoe and suburban can be just a hair different in size, why couldn't the vue stay just a little smaller than the outlook? Why did they have to make it look like it would fit inside an outlook?

I mean seriously, the vue was on par with everything else. It was a little larger and roomer than the others in it's class, but hey, that's a good thing right? This looks like it's going to be similiar to a crv or rav4, in the ultra compact suv class!!!

That's sad. I thought I would look forward to this, but it is clearly disappointing to look at. The vue was just right in size. It really was. I mean, the torrent and equinox are similiar in size to the vue, so are those going to get smaller, or sway those who want a little more room but not an outlooks amount of roomto buy an equinox or torrent instead?

Seriously, I don't understand making the vue any smaller. I might manage to adjust to most other things. I really dislike the giant round bumper reflectors, they look like a design afterthought created by kindergardners. and does the rear lights have amber turn signals yet??

[GearGuy]

Funny... You can make out the arches on the Saturn logo in the grille emblem through the tape. Why even bother to cover it?

Not crazy about it from the pictures...
Reminds me a bit of the Ford Focus, beefed up.
From every corner, it arches in towards the roof center. Like a blister, or wart...
I've said it before, I don't like the dramatically angled rear hatch windows. It really cuts down on the utility of the cargo area when trying to load up boxy items. They barely have enough room to fit the rear side windows...

It doesn't look balanced. All nose and no tail.
Wheels look undersized...

The raised ribs in the hood are a bit strange...
And when you raise the hood, it looks like the grille will go with it...

Why are the rear view mirrors black on the front side and white on the back side?

I guess I'll have to see it in person before I decide to really dislike it...

[Galileo]

Great hideous midget vues, batman!!!!

... I really don't know what they were thinking by making it smaller.

...This looks like it's going to be similiar to a crv or rav4, in the ultra compact suv class!!!

... Seriously, I don't understand making the vue any smaller.

Dude, the '08 Vue is NOT SMALLER than the current version!!! Do you really want me to whip out the comparitive measurements, AGAIN?! ;)

[cjones4512]

I dont mind the front and the interior but the rear end looks like crap. Fix the rear end and I may consider one but as it looks now, I will keep my 05.

[montrealvue]

I think the concensus here is the next Vue is a big disappointment so far. I can't wait to see the Outlook when it comes out this fall. I definitely like the Outlook more than the next Vue. If only they had kept more with the original Opel concept it wouldn't be so bad. They had so much to work with with the Prevue concept! It actually had a chance!

Why the hell does GM always seem to have a great looking concept then waters it down to a dull, unimpressive production car??? Cost? Conservative management? Plain ol bad judgement? (over and over and over....) Guess I'll be trading up..... :whoa:

[Galileo]

I think the concensus here is the next Vue is a big disappointment so far.
I wouldn't write-off the '08 Vue just yet... i remember the same resistance on this forum to the spy shots of the '06 Vue's new front end... and now the majority here is happy with it. Just remember this isn't the production version that we're seeing. ;)

[20VUE06]

I wouldn't write-off the '08 Vue just yet... i remember the same resistance on this forum to the spy shots of the '06 Vue's new front end... and now the majority here is happy with it. Just remember this isn't the production version that we're seeing. ;)


You are exactly right. I was one of them and now I own an '06... :yes: Although, I do like the older style better, it needed a face lift.

[spencerb]

I think the concensus here is the next Vue is a big disappointment so far.In my 11+ years of participating in Saturn online forums, I can say that every single new Saturn design, from the 1996 sedans to the 2001 coupes to the VUEs, received significant online negative comments regarding styling. I think the Sky is the Saturn that received the least negativity upon its release.

I would also suspect that when every new car is debuted (or shown in spy photos), it gets bashed on its respective forums.

People are going to hem and haw over the 2008 VUE, but once it's been on the market for a few months people will warm up to it. There are no styling aspects that are radical or out of line with the competition (as opposed to the ION's funky interior that only Saturn would be stupid enough to produce).

Just cause it looks like the competition doesn't mean it's bad. The competition outsells the VUE, doesn't it?

[99blacktop]

Finally! They installed a machine gun so I can knock all the slow drivers off the road and out of my way. :D Kidding of course.

I'm actually glad I got the '06 because I seroiusly don't like what they've done looks-wise to the view. It's starting to look too much like every other SUV on the road. What I've always liked about my Vue is that it was unique for the most part. Oh well.You forgot a very important word. It should have said "it's starting to look too much like every other ugly SUV" There are many SUVs out there that aren't hideous (from the outside at least). The Tahoe, Suburban, Highlander and M-Class all come to mind. Even the new Mercury Mariner looks good, but maybe that's the brainwashing from the commercials. :D

[KellysVue]

I wouldn't write-off the '08 Vue just yet... i remember the same resistance on this forum to the spy shots of the '06 Vue's new front end... and now the majority here is happy with it. Just remember this isn't the production version that we're seeing. ;)

That's true, I didn't like the 06 at first, but they still look like Vues!! That 08 doesn't look like a Vue to me at all. It doesn't even look like a Saturn! :cry:

Kelly :cool:
05 FWD V6 Pepsi Blue Vue
KAFN8ME

[Tom92SCm]

Looks smaller. Like Pontiac Vibe small.

[DesertPuma]

I wouldn't write-off the '08 Vue just yet... i remember the same resistance on this forum to the spy shots of the '06 Vue's new front end... and now the majority here is happy with it. Just remember this isn't the production version that we're seeing. ;)

I still don't like the current design (front-end), even after seeing quite a few on the road., I liked the original much better.

Regardless, there is still one important element missing, and I really don't want to have to repeat myself :).

(Side-note: Did anyone watch "Jericho" last night? I couldn't help but notice the car that was used in the final scene was a VUE :))

[cdp326]

OMG, a preproduction car dripping in camoflauge! :eek: :eek: Whatever will we do? Oh yeah, make comments from disguised pics on a computer screen. :yes:

:rolleyes:

BTW, the new RAV4 is actually right with the VUE in size, so it's not "ultra compact" anymore. The CR-V, both outgoing and new, aren't "ultra compact" either. The Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute/Mercury Mariner are more than half a foot shorter than the VUE, yet they match/beat the VUE in several dimensions and are arguably the closest in design to the VUE.

Oh, and any comments to the tune of "It's just going to be an Equinox/Torrent with a Saturn badge--that's what GM does" are seriously outdated. :no:

[Web Raven]

You forgot a very important word. It should have said "it's starting to look too much like every other ugly SUV" There are many SUVs out there that aren't hideous (from the outside at least). The Tahoe, Suburban, Highlander and M-Class all come to mind. Even the new Mercury Mariner looks good, but maybe that's the brainwashing from the commercials. :D

I don't think it or the SUV's it now resembles are necessarily "ugly", I just feel that now that the Vue is going that route, it has lost it's unique-ness. It's a shame. I'm glad I got my '06 when I did. :)

Though if that truly were a machine gun option in the front grille, I might be persuaded to "like" this Vue. HEH...

[YIN]

On nasioc.com everyone hated the new 06 design for the impreza, wrx, sti... Forum upon forum of haters. Then all of a sudden. They all loved it. Some people hate change or the ideas others make. I wasn't sure I liked the new STi look, but now I really want one.

With that said. I wish I could of waited til 08 to buy a Vue.

....but after owning one so far, I'm not sure I'll buy one again, lol. Although a Sky RL would be the hotness.

In time you will all love the 08 Vue.

[DesertPuma]

In time you will all love the 08 Vue.

No, I won't (even after overlooking the fact that the Polymer is being dropeed). I still don't like what they did to the vue in 06, even though I now see them on the road. All I can think is "man does that look goofy". I like the original design, it looks "meaner".

[PontiacLvr]

Here is a better shot of the interior i posted a while back on another thread , and the red line front fascia in camo of course...http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/data/500/08_saturn_vue_int_500.jpghttp://www.saturnfans.com/photos/data/500/08_saturn_vue_rl_f34_500.jpg

[mellissam]

Here is a better shot of the interior i posted a while back on another thread , and the red line front fascia in camo of course
I've been wondering what that credit card slot is for on the left side of the steering wheel?
BTW - I love my 06 VUE! A little chunky looking, but overall interior and exterior a 9.5.....
The 08's have regressed to circular vents (old school)....I like the exterior, except the front top grill (should drop the bottom grill, it is so tiny). I like the simple functional design....but the interior is a step back. I thought they said the cargo room was going to be the same or close to the 07's?

I hate reading reviews about how the Saturn is the entry level vehicle...bugs the heck out of me...Buick and the others have had their day in the sun (excuse the pun), upgrade the Saturn to top level GM fare!!! I mean considering the Pontiac as mid-level makes me want to pu%&.
JMHO
Saturn sounds uplevel....put it there....

[montrealvue]

I hate reading reviews about how the Saturn is the entry level vehicle...bugs the heck out of me...Buick and the others have had their day in the sun (excuse the pun), upgrade the Saturn to top level GM fare!!! I mean considering the Pontiac as mid-level makes me want to pu%&.
JMHO
Saturn sounds uplevel....put it there....


I agree with you there, Buick's current offerings are a complete disaster. I have yet to see a driver under the age of 65 driving one. I guess they still count on the senior crowd to keep that brand alive. The marketing for the new Saturn models is sharp and I hope they keep that momentum up. Pontiac has not exactly put the "excite" back in excitement either so alot is riding on Saturn succeeding as brand. I am not getting goosebumps from the '08 Vue either but it doesn't mean I don't get them from the Outlook :yes: . I haven't given up yet, I still feel Saturn is "different" ...... in a good way.

[Dante]

hideous

Yup, that about says it all.

It looks like a cheap piece of Korean crap. What a disaster.

What ever happened to THIS work of ART!!???

[BobbyP]

I think that possibly, hopefully, the front and rear ends we're seeing are not the production pieces. They're there just for the test mules. Not to let the competition see all the cards in your deck...

The interior looks good. Credit card slot, auto-stick shifter, the shape of the steering wheel center reminds me of earlier VUES...

[walt]

Isn't the new designed VUE really just all about selling the Outlook? With the downsizing of the new VUE it will give the Outlook a better market for Saturn. I kind of like see it as Saturn's way of scarifying its best selling product in order to create a new size placement vehicle for the Saturn division of GM. Now how this will fit into Chevrolet is a mystery to me. As far as Pontiac I doubt it really matters. I convinced they will be the next to get axed by GM if sales don't improve, especially with the Aura eating into G6 sales.

[Galileo]

... With the downsizing of the new VUE...
What makes you think the next generation Vue will be downsized? It will NOT be smaller than the current Vue! You want me to break out the dimension comparisons again? :D

[spencerb]

I've been wondering what that credit card slot is for on the left side of the steering wheel?It's a "ticket holder." The new Chevy Aveo has one. I imagine smaller pieces of paper getting lost in there.

[montrealvue]

It's a "ticket holder." The new Chevy Aveo has one. I imagine smaller pieces of paper getting lost in there.


Damn, so much so making payments with your VISA card.....:tear:

[walt]

What makes you think the next generation Vue will be downsized? It will NOT be smaller than the current Vue! You want me to break out the dimension comparisons again? :D
Please do, as Edmond's.com must be publishing incorrect information.

[Tatusmi]

hey guys, here's another set of shots... nothing on the VUE but tape over the badges.

http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/09/22/spotted-2007-saturn-vue-sans-disguise/

I'm not a fan. I miss the firstgen Redlines... those were beautiful.

- Tatusmi

[MJD1001]

I think I'm going to like the new Vue. Especially from what I can tell in Redline form.

I do agree that it does look more 'upright' and less wide than I was hoping, and I'm not a huge fan of the tail lights. However, It isn't a big thing for me. The grill of the potential Redline version looks nice...and I think the exact thing this vehicle needs to look better is to not see it running around on 16 inch wheels.

Give it stock 17's or 18's without the camo and I think it'll be fine.

Personally, if the Redline version has even a little more power to distinguish it from the base V6 (say give it the Direct injection version of the 3.6), I might be one of people in line to order one next summer.

It doesn't look perfect in the spy shots, but I have seen enough good things to make me anxious for it's debut.

You also have to remember, not only is GM expanding Saturn's lineup...but it is also trying to differentiate products from division to division. If the Vue is going to share engines and transmissions with the Equinox and Torrent in the future (I assume they all will be getting the 3.6 and 6 speed auto within 2 years), then it has to differntiate on styling even more. I realize most of us on here are fans of Saturn simply becasue it is "Saturn" and not typical GM...but I think the type of vehicle that the people here complaining about this new design are looking for will be found in the refreshed/redesigned Equinox in 2 years. (of course I have no inside info to back that up, but that does appear the way things are going in GM).

[mellissam]

It's a "ticket holder." The new Chevy Aveo has one. I imagine smaller pieces of paper getting lost in there.

I'm not so sure it is a ticket holder....I've been comparing this rendition to the Opel, and there is little difference, it is virtually the same car...although the spy photographs never got a good interior shot, the exterior is virtually identical....Anyway the 'credit card slot' is in the Opel version...

Side by Side
http://www.saturnfans.com/photos/data/12598/7-2007-opel-antara-saturn-vue.jpghttp://www.saturnfans.com/photos/data/12598/1-2007-saturn-vue-kgp.jpghttp://www.saturnfans.com/photos/data/12598/6-2007-opel-antara-saturn-vue.jpghttp://www.saturnfans.com/photos/data/12598/saturn-vue-interior.jpg

[kodak_jack]

Dark gray and brown for an interior?!:dizzy:
Somebody already said it, it looks like a Vibe. Count me out.

[cdp326]

Dark gray and brown for an interior?!:dizzy:
Somebody already said it, it looks like a Vibe. Count me out.
In Europe, apparently. Doesn't mean we'll get the same interior color combo. They might offer the Morocco Brown leather seat option from the Aura--we'll see.

[Dante]

Yeah, they can keep that poopoo brown interior, along with it's fake looking stitching. yuk.

Even the steering wheels are the same as the Opel... As the French-waiter in FBDO said... "I weep for the future!" ;(

[BobbyP]

I wish they would have kept the vertical door handles on the doors, and the glove box release is centered on the glove box door where the driver has to reach farther away to open it. The drivers side gas door is a plus.

The instrumentation seems to have been simplified.

The Red Line version cleans up the busy front end the same way it cleaned up the current VUE.

The primary negative I see is it being made in Mexico.

[cdp326]

Even the steering wheels are the same as the Opel... As the French-waiter in FBDO said... "I weep for the future!" ;(
See, I can't see us getting the Antara steering wheel. I'd think they'd simply put in the current 06+ steering wheel. It may have a taped Saturn badge on it, but it's not shared with anything else here.

The primary negative I see is it being made in Mexico.
If it is. We don't know for sure yet. :no:

[WLKVUE]

The only thing that I have seen in these pictures of the 2008 that could be better than what is on my 2006 is the circular shaped air vents for the a/c. If you can spin them 360 and adjust the angle of the slats you could pretty much have the airflow going where you want it, which is really limited in the 2006. Other than that I agree with the others who have said "Thanks, but no thanks."

[Dante]

The only thing that I have seen in these pictures of the 2008 that could be better than what is on my 2006 is the circular shaped air vents for the a/c. If you can spin them 360 and adjust the angle of the slats you could pretty much have the airflow going where you want it, which is really limited in the 2006. Other than that I agree with the others who have said "Thanks, but no thanks."

I'll agree on that. The vents in a lot of GM cars are total crap... A lot of other makes have gone to the round, fully adjustable type of vents, and I really like them. The type where you can close them like shutters, push in the middle to open, and spin around to get the air going any which way really easily is a real bonus... that, and I like the way they look. The round vent with chrome rings on a black dash looks good (see Mazdas for a good example).

But, I don't buy a car for freakin' CUPHOLDERS and VENTS! The thing is still so ugly you'd think the ugly tree fell on it! :eek:

[jdmessner]

I am SOOOO disapointed in the direction that Saturn is going. Instead of designing and building their own vehicles (like they used to.. You know, way back in the 90's) they just import and re-badge existing european models and market them to us as innovative.

If I wanted to buy some euro-trash POS, I'd go to Import Motors.

I should have figured something was up when they dropped the Saturn Homecommings and started to drop Vuxhall/Opel engines and Hungarian transmissions into their new SUV....

[DesertPuma]

I am SOOOO disapointed in the direction that Saturn is going. Instead of designing and building their own vehicles (like they used to.. You know, way back in the 90's) they just import and re-badge existing european models and market them to us as innovative.



I have been trying to say this same thing for months now (in different words, but the message is the same), and all I have been getting is chastised by others.

I have been told on numerous occassions that technically these aren't rebadges, it's "Platform Sharing" (Yeah, whatever, it still comes across as cheap no matter how you cut it.) The only true recent "rebadge" (supposedly) is the Relay.

Yes I know auto companies have been doing it for years and years probably even dating back to the '40s, but that's what made the "old Saturn" so appealling, no clones. This uniqueness no longer exists.

My disappointment is so deep, my next and last Saturn will be an '07 ION, the last of the "true Saturns", and I willl most likely look elsewhere after that down the road when it's time to retire the VUE.

The "new VUE" is a travesty.

[jdmessner]

You give them too much credit, Desert Puma.

The New Vue is nearly identical to the Opel Antera GTC, except it has 4 doors!
The trend continues throughout the line-up-
The Sky is the Solstice is the Vauxhall VX Lightning. The Relay is the Uplander, is the Terazza, is the Montana. The Outlook is the Buick Elcleve, is the GMC Acadia! It doesn't matter any more what name tag it wears. Underneath it's the same lousy platform at 4 different dealerships!

GM has platform-shared their way so much that Saturn has completely lost its identity and its innovation.

It's not just Saturn,either. The Pontiac GTO is a Holden Monaro, with a Corvett 6 speed transmission...

I am SOOOOO done with Domestic car makers. My 2006 Vue is in the shop for the 5th time in 7 months. As soon as they offer me a dealer buy-back, I'm taking the money and running to my nearest Honda or Toyota dealer.

They may be foreign owned, but there's no false pretense about what's under the sheet metal. Heck, the CR-V is going to be more of an 'American' car than the new Vue will. How's that for a turn of events?

[DesertPuma]

You give them too much credit, Desert Puma.

The New Vue is nearly identical to the Opel Antera GTC, except it has 4 doors!
The trend continues throughout the line-up-
The Sky is the Solstice is the Vauxhall VX Lightning. The Relay is the Uplander, is the Terazza, is the Montana. The Outlook is the Buick Elcleve, is the GMC Acadia! It doesn't matter any more what name tag it wears. Underneath it's the same lousy platform at 4 different dealerships!

GM has platform-shared their way so much that Saturn has completely lost its identity and its innovation.

It's not just Saturn,either. The Pontiac GTO is a Holden Monaro, with a Corvett 6 speed transmission...

I am SOOOOO done with Domestic car makers. My 2006 Vue is in the shop for the 5th time in 7 months. As soon as they offer me a dealer buy-back, I'm taking the money and running to my nearest Honda or Toyota dealer.

They may be foreign owned, but there's no false pretense about what's under the sheet metal. Heck, the CR-V is going to be more of an 'American' car than the new Vue will. How's that for a turn of events?

You're preaching to the choir dude.

I have an '03 VUE and (other than needing a new Water Pump which was covered by warranty) I have had no issues with it, I have a '97 SW2 and (other than the fact that it's nearly 10 years old) I have had no issues with it. Those cars are "true" Saturns. The next generation are not.

That was my point about the "new Saturn" it has totally lost it's original identity, and innovation (not only have they dropped the polymer, they have also dropped EAS :upset: )

(Sorry to hear about your '06 VUE, sounds like quality has taken a hit lately.)

[BobbyP]

The 2008 VUE demonstrates we're getting carbon copies of European Opel vehicles. I saw an interview of the head of GM this morning on Autoline Detroit and he mentioned that the next generation Aura will be a copy of the Opel Vectra. Like the current Aura design won't happen again.

[kfraney]

This is a link to an article on cnn.money.com today.

http://money.cnn.com/popups/2006/autos/paris/frameset_cnn.exclude.html

[DAS]

The KIA Sorento looks better!
If the sloping rear glass deletes storage, we''ll be looking elsewhere when it comes time to replace our '03. The old adage "form follows function" is still true. If the cargo space is smaller, perhaps, the hope is to get VUE owners to trade up to the OUTLOOK at trade in?
You'd have thought Saturn would have learned a lesson from the Relay. What a flop inside and out and they're going in the same direction with this design.
Too bad, our 03 VUE was our first Saturn, might just be our last.

[DAS]

What is it with GM and all this cheesy looking chrome that plaster on there vehicles. Reminds me of the stuff Chrysler turned out in the 70s and 80s.
Mediocre design disguised with a lot cheap ornamentation. Can't wait for the hideous hood ornament!

[pd1601]

So this is what I saw on my drive to work this morning!!!! It was doing a U-turn on University, heading west back towards the ASU campus in Tempe. The lights, wingmirrors, rear end and chrome grille are unmistakable, although large chunks of black tape obscured the grille to an extent, and the hood looked as if it had some kind of dent. My first thought was that it was a beat-up Acura from the front and slightly Suzike-esque at its backside.

[MJD1001]

The 2008 VUE demonstrates we're getting carbon copies of European Opel vehicles. I saw an interview of the head of GM this morning on Autoline Detroit and he mentioned that the next generation Aura will be a copy of the Opel Vectra. Like the current Aura design won't happen again.
T

The Opel Antara was unvelied today at the Paris Auto show (I agree with only one or two slight changes, this is the Saturn Vue for 08).

Now, I'm still waiting for full specs to come in, I haven't found them yet...but a website that had some pre-release info on the Antara had it weighing in at 1800+KG....which translates to 4000-4100 lbs. I SURE hope that is a mistake as I don't want the new vue to weigh that much. Hopefully by later today some 'official' specs, including curb weight, will be found.

[montrealvue]

Paris Auto Show: Preview 2006
Opel Antara

Opel Antara: Replace that Opel lightning bolt on the grille of the new Antara SUV with a red Saturn insignia, and you’ll get a good view of the next Vue, due for 2008. There are two downsides to this redesign. First, GM’s deal to install Honda-sourced 3.5-liter V6 engines in the current Vue will likely expire, to be replaced by the 3.5-liter or 3.6-liter V6 engines that power the new Aura sedan. Second, the new Saturn Vue won’t have dent- and rust-resistant body panels. Otherwise, nobody will miss the old Saturn Vue

.....ack, I know I'll miss the old Vue:( I just wanna see more of the next Red-Line....it actually had potential..... I'll miss you Honda motor and tranny :cry:

[DesertPuma]

Paris Auto Show: Preview 2006
Opel Antara

Opel Antara: Replace that Opel lightning bolt on the grille of the new Antara SUV with a red Saturn insignia, and you’ll get a good view of the next Vue, due for 2008. There are two downsides to this redesign. First, GM’s deal to install Honda-sourced 3.5-liter V6 engines in the current Vue will likely expire, to be replaced by the 3.5-liter or 3.6-liter V6 engines that power the new Aura sedan. Second, the new Saturn Vue won’t have dent- and rust-resistant body panels. Otherwise, nobody will miss the old Saturn Vue

.....ack, I know I'll miss the old Vue:( I just wanna see more of the next Red-Line....it actually had potential..... I'll miss you Honda motor and tranny :cry:

So then why is the "old Saturn VUE" so popular?

At least they mention that dropping the Polymer was a disadvantage!

[mgamber11]

I think it looks like more an Equinox.
http://www.chevrolet.com/i/pic/equinox/2007/photogallery/ext_gallery03.jpg

[bad1chad]

Judging by those pics, it looks to much like the Kia Sportage, or Jeep Compass. I'll have to go for the Outlook or the Acadia.

[Greenhornet]

Look here's the 2008 Vue!

http://blogs.edmunds.com/.ee90873/cmd.233/embedded..ee90871

Oh wait, that's the Kia Sorento.

Here's the real 2008 Vue:

http://www.cars.com/features/autoshows/2006/newyork/coverage/images/07_Kia_Sorrento_front_eb_430.jpg

Oh crap! That's a Kia Sorento too! I think you guys get my point. :yes:


No I don't get your point other than the two vehicles look very much alike and that is hardly a point. What does that fact suggest to you?:snide:

[Nuke-Em]

The profile shot and rear end are actually pretty decent looking. The front end, however, is very disappointing. It looks narrow and fragile. Overall, I'm pretty underwhelmed. The extent of the rebadging of Opel's is pretty disappointing, but not surprising. This stuff has been rumored for years. At least GM Europe has nice cars, unlike the junk they sell here.

Matt

[Greenhornet]

:cry: Paris Auto Show: Preview 2006
Opel Antara

Opel Antara: Replace that Opel lightning bolt on the grille of the new Antara SUV with a red Saturn insignia, and you’ll get a good view of the next Vue, due for 2008. There are two downsides to this redesign. First, GM’s deal to install Honda-sourced 3.5-liter V6 engines in the current Vue will likely expire, to be replaced by the 3.5-liter or 3.6-liter V6 engines that power the new Aura sedan. Second, the new Saturn Vue won’t have dent- and rust-resistant body panels. Otherwise, nobody will miss the old Saturn Vue

.....ack, I know I'll miss the old Vue:( I just wanna see more of the next Red-Line....it actually had potential..... I'll miss you Honda motor and tranny :cry:

Ok, so buy a Honda and an 07 Vue redline then wipe away your little tears.:whoa: :cry:

As for me, I would be happier with the GM 3.6 litre V6 with DOHC AND VVT matched to GMs six speed gearbox with paddle shifters.:eek:

[AquaWolf]

Leave it to GM to give Dae Woo a pen and paper... Now it seems to look a bit like a larger Aveo. dammit....

[TPFilm]

Well... If you want to buy an '08 SUV with similar styling to the current VUE go buy an XL7 (then take off the Suzuki badges and replace them with Saturn badges!) I really don't think that Suzuki and GM will completely redesign vehicles that are one year old (Suzuki) and two years old (Pontiac.) Maybe, just maybe, if things tank with the proposed '08 VUE the '09 VUE could be re-based on the Theta platform and all would be good again!

One good thing 'bout the direction that Saturn's going in... the Relay's gone when the Outlook comes out!

[cdp326]

Well... If you want to buy an '08 SUV with similar styling to the current VUE go buy an XL7 (then take off the Suzuki badges and replace them with Saturn badges!) I really don't think that Suzuki and GM will completely redesign vehicles that are one year old (Suzuki) and two years old (Pontiac.) Maybe, just maybe, if things tank with the proposed '08 VUE the '09 VUE could be re-based on the Theta platform and all would be good again!

The 2008 VUE IS on Theta architecture.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GM_Theta_platform

Putting Saturn badges on the Suzuki XL7 would be like putting a Mercedes-Benz badge on a Dodge Stratus.