Some Reviews Starting to Come In

[Jerome10]

I thought we had to wait till the 25th??

http://www.caranddriver.com/previews/12999/first-drive-2008-saturn-vue-xr-awd.html

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/suvs/112_0707_2008_saturn_vue/

[06VuePcola]

Good reviews...but did any one notice the mpg ratings? 16 city/23 highway...OUCH!!!

[Jerome10]

That is what I noticed too. Was this a 3.6L AWD or 3.6L FWD model? That might make a difference too (FWD should be better)

It is important to keep in mind that these are based on the 2008 EPA test cycle, which is more realistic than the pre-08 rating system. All cars are dropping at least a couple MPG from 2007 to 2008 based on this new system. Some cars, such as hybrids, will be severely decreased with this new rating system.

It is likely that the MPG if based on the current system would probably be about 18/25 or so. However, you're more likely to actually get 16/23, which is why they finally changed the system to account for more stop and go, higher freeway speeds, air conditioner use, etc.

Just keep that in mind. But yeah, especially compared with the Toyota (19/26) it is a bit of a downer......

[Pete93SL1M]

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/calculatorSelectYear.jsp

2008 EPA MPG new test comparisons to current VUE V6
FWD: 18/25 (20/28 in 2007)
AWD: 17/24 (19/25 in 2007)

The 16/23 is probably the AWD XR with the 6T70 trans. The new 6-speed doesn't seem to be as economy minded as they claim. Perhaps the 5/6 overdrive gears are not as overdriven as the Honda 5th gear?

[lordkosc]

man them MPG numbers are depressing... I wonder what the hybrid will post? :dazed:

[Jerome10]

I doubt it is so much the engine or the gearing. The article said it was loping along at 1800 rpm in 6th at 70mph. Doesn't get much taller than that.

The new VUE is a pig. Simple as that. 4000lbs is DAMN heavy for a car this size. Guess metal weighs more than plastic :p

[06VRL]

WOW, that is depressing, the exact same mileage numbers as the much larger, much heavier, much roomier, more towing capacity, less aerodynamic Outlook AWD, I guess I'll have to pony-up for the Outlook AWD (of which I also like), I was hoping the new Vue AWD would be a little more athletic than the Outlook AWD and get atleast somewhat better mileage, but if these early reviews are any indication, that's not happening!

Goodbye Vue, Hello Outlook!

[cdp326]

WOW, that is depressing, the exact same mileage numbers as the much larger, much heavier, much roomier, more towing capacity, less aerodynamic Outlook AWD, I guess I'll have to pony-up for the Outlook AWD (of which I also like), I was hoping the new Vue AWD would be a little more athletic than the Outlook AWD and get atleast somewhat better mileage, but if these early reviews are any indication, that's not happening!

Goodbye Vue, Hello Outlook!

Are you comparing the Outlook's 2008 mpg numbers to the 2008 VUE's mpg numbers? There is a difference--remember, the EPA has changed their test procedures for 2008.

[VTHokie00SL2]

Man, I just don't like the looks at all! Looking at the photo, it looks less rugged and less SUV-like than the current VUE. I guess they're going for more of a tall wagon design. It also looks compressed. I guess it's supposed to be cute rather than rugged. What is that thing in front of the front door? A fake air vent? A real air vent?

[s-seriesguy]

The inside is OK, but the rear looks like a bloated toyota matrix. I don't even cosider it in the category of a SUV.

[BobbyP]

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/calculatorSelectYear.jsp

2008 EPA MPG new test comparisons to current VUE V6
FWD: 18/25 (20/28 in 2007)
AWD: 17/24 (19/25 in 2007)

The 16/23 is probably the AWD XR with the 6T70 trans. The new 6-speed doesn't seem to be as economy minded as they claim. Perhaps the 5/6 overdrive gears are not as overdriven as the Honda 5th gear?

The 3.6L powerplant doesn't seem to be as efficient engine as the L66 was. All the black plastic under the hood doesn't look too attractive...

[Jerome10]

Looks like the embargo was lifted early by GM.

Another one:

http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2007/05/saturn_vue_dad.html

[tackepj]

man them MPG numbers are depressing... I wonder what the hybrid will post? :dazed:

Updated 2007 GL numbers (for the 2008 cycle) are 23/29, so the initial 08 VUE GL is probably similar. Frankly, the old-style EPA numbers are much more in line with reality for our 2007 GL.

[Ritz]

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/calculatorSelectYear.jsp

2008 EPA MPG new test comparisons to current VUE V6
FWD: 18/25 (20/28 in 2007)
AWD: 17/24 (19/25 in 2007)

The 16/23 is probably the AWD XR with the 6T70 trans. The new 6-speed doesn't seem to be as economy minded as they claim. Perhaps the 5/6 overdrive gears are not as overdriven as the Honda 5th gear?

Heh. I'm getting 17/23 in my "piggy" V8 Hemi Charger (which also weighs 4000lbs) with a mere mortal 5A trans. :)

Way to go on the "improving fuel efficiency" sen~or Lutz.... :rolleyes:

[Jerome10]

Another

http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070516/FREE/70515014/1006/VEHICLEREVIEWS

Note: EPA combined mileage is 18.2, Autoweek got 18.1. So the EPA numbers seem about spot on. Plus you can guess that they drive a bit harder than others.

Also, this was an AWD model, so the FWD should get better.

[MarvC]

Gas ratings are a major concern. I knew the 08 VUE would have a much improved interior/exterior.
When I saw the 3.6L (same as the Aura) in the VUE I immediately questioned the gas mileage especially with the weight of the new VUE.
I rented an XR Aura and around town it seemed to gulp the gas I feel the aerodynamics of the VUE will lessen the MPG the 3.6 delivers ion the Aura.

We have two 07 Ions (one of them is a redline) and just traded the 07 3.5L VUE in on a 2007 V6 Rav4 Limited. (Please no flames here) I just could not handle the wind noise the VUE was beginning to exhibit and came across a fantastic deal from the Toyota Dealership.
We have 450 miles on the Rav and getting 21-22 mpg in town, it amazes me the V6 can achieve this, I believe it has to do with the tranny (very low revs during traveling) and the Rav weighing in under 3600 pounds.
If Saturn can overcome the gas issue especially with gas going to and over $3.00 a gallon they have a winner.
I guess the VUE needs to go on a diet.

Congratulations to Saturn (Opal) a nice looking ride.

[sspeer]

As far as mileage numbers.. remember to comparing new rules with new rules.

The new rules for 2004-2007 V6 are 18/25 for FWD, 17/24 for AWD

It only looks like a drop of 1 city and 1 highway

[tackepj]

It only looks like a drop of 1 city and 1 highway

Good point. Seems pretty typical for a car that gained some pounds.

[mellissam]

The reviews seem generally favourable, with gas mileage (weight) and cargo area being harped on....the one thing I couldn't put my finger on was comment made by Kicking Tires, "I was a bit surprised my wife didn’t fall for the Vue. She found it just “OK,” but thought there are better competitors in this group. "

This is totally a 'man's' SUV....it has the all the characteristics of being made for men.....whereas, my 06 is a woman's car (at least that is what my friend said - she said it is a female car). I agree. :)

From my read of all the reviews, it appears men have done all the talking…..it was noted that ”500 engineers” designed this car, from all over the world.....:arr:

[MJD1001]

Gas ratings are a major concern. I knew the 08 VUE would have a much improved interior/exterior.
When I saw the 3.6L (same as the Aura) in the VUE I immediately questioned the gas mileage especially with the weight of the new VUE.
I rented an XR Aura and around town it seemed to gulp the gas I feel the aerodynamics of the VUE will lessen the MPG the 3.6 delivers ion the Aura.

We have two 07 Ions (one of them is a redline) and just traded the 07 3.5L VUE in on a 2007 V6 Rav4 Limited. (Please no flames here) I just could not handle the wind noise the VUE was beginning to exhibit and came across a fantastic deal from the Toyota Dealership.
We have 450 miles on the Rav and getting 21-22 mpg in town, it amazes me the V6 can achieve this, I believe it has to do with the tranny (very low revs during traveling) and the Rav weighing in under 3600 pounds.
If Saturn can overcome the gas issue especially with gas going to and over $3.00 a gallon they have a winner.
I guess the VUE needs to go on a diet.

Congratulations to Saturn (Opal) a nice looking ride.

We are going to look at a Small SUV (most likely) next year for our second vehicle. I like the look of the new Vue better than the Rav4...but I don't think the Rav4 is ugly by any means.

However, it is going to be hard to purchase the V6 vue over the Rav4 when the Vue is going to cost more, have less performance, and get worse fuel economy. If I thought the Vue was DRASTICALLY better looking and safer it might mean something. I do think the Vue is better looking, but not enough to overcome the other factors.

[VTHokie00SL2]

This is totally a 'man's' SUV....it has the all the characteristics of being made for men.....

You think so? I think it's the opposite. It's kind of short and stubby and has a very cute look to it - not the look that appeals to most men imo.

[davidsky]

Heh. I'm getting 17/23 in my "piggy" V8 Hemi Charger (which also weighs 4000lbs) with a mere mortal 5A trans. :)

Way to go on the "improving fuel efficiency" sen~or Lutz.... :rolleyes:

it's the glory of efficient aerodynamics. Pushing less air=better mileage.

[davidsky]

We have two 07 Ions (one of them is a redline) and just traded the 07 3.5L VUE in on a 2007 V6 Rav4 Limited. (Please no flames here)
I guess the VUE needs to go on a diet.


The rav4 is best in class right now for a V6 model.
The Vue will need to sell more on quality (would you believe that?) than on efficiency or value. The Outlook and the GM trucks really have the best interiors and build quality on the market right now and people are saying that the VUE is even better.

[MarvC]

The rav4 is best in class right now for a V6 model.
The Vue will need to sell more on quality (would you believe that?) than on efficiency or value. The Outlook and the GM trucks really have the best interiors and build quality on the market right now and people are saying that the VUE is even better.
The Rav4 interior quality is a MAJOR upgrade from our O7 VUE as well as ride and smoothness.
The Toyota V6 you would just have to experience the power this unit has, not since my high school days when I owned my SS396 have I experienced acceleration such as this at 21-22 mpg around town.
The upgraded interior of the new VUE as well as a quieter ride should be a major selling point for those who like the look of the car.
Gas mileage is going to be a major factor for the new VUE with prices soaring at the pumps.

Couple of shots of the Rav4 LImited interior. Just for comparisons.
http://www.pbase.com/marvc/image/78128747/original.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/marvc/image/78128749/original.jpg

Our Redline..Sweet
http://www.pbase.com/marvc/image/70666189/original.jpg

[BobbyP]

IMO the RAV4 has too much plastic wood on the dash, and the interior was just different Jap styling with a better quality plastic than curent Saturn used. The preliminary reviews of the 2008 raved over the better interior materials used in the 2008 VUE.

I do like the RAV4's interior vertical door pull handles, and the off center glove box door handle which Saturn abandoned on the 2008 VUE.

[davidsky]

IMO the RAV4 has too much plastic wood on the dash, and the interior was just different Jap styling with a better quality plastic than curent Saturn used.

The plood is a dealer add on in this case.

[davidsky]

The Rav4

Any exterior shots?

[Jerome10]

http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2007/05/2008_vue_xr.html

Nothing really here.....

[Ritz]

IMO the RAV4 has too much plastic wood on the dash, and the interior was just different Jap styling with a better quality plastic than curent Saturn used. The preliminary reviews of the 2008 raved over the better interior materials used in the 2008 VUE.


I like the styling as well and also agree that the plood is a negative. Where are these designers getting this plood craving? I've yet to meet anyone who actually likes it.

Cheers,

[carscomblogger]

http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2007/05/2008_vue_xr.html

Nothing really here.....

Did you go to the photo gallery?
http://blogs.cars.com/photos/review_preview_saturn_vue/vueexterior1.html

[davidsky]

I like the styling as well and also agree that the plood is a negative. Where are these designers getting this plood craving? I've yet to meet anyone who actually likes it.

Cheers,

I like it, so there.
The RAV4 comes with silver trim. The wood grain is a dealer accessory

[MarvC]

The wood trim is a nice contrast to the dash areas, it does set the rather bland dash area to catch the eye.
I liked the wood on our 07 VUE dash, I guess to each his own thats why you can have it either way you desire.
The dash of the 07 Rav is soft touch (limited option) so the wood adds a nice touch to the vehicle I added the option just like the contrast. The wood is a factory option.
The 08 VUE wood does a nice contrast just as many of the mfg are going to. I like the Aura XR cockpit which I believe will look similar in the 08 VUE material wise.
The outlook still has the hard plastic dash, I believe the VUE will be a little more refined like the Aura XR dash.
It would have been nice if they added the padded leather inserts on the front doors armrest areas, it adds a very nice touch to the interior very comfortable.

[Ritz]

I like it, so there.
The RAV4 comes with silver trim. The wood grain is a dealer accessory

If it was ACTUAL wood instead of a cheesy picture of wood over plastic, I could wink at it. Blech....

Cheers,

[darrelld]

Gas mileage is disappointing. My 04 RL corrected to the 08 EPA rating is still 18mpg city and 26 highway.

I like the exterior styling of Rav4 better, the CRV (now the best selling SUV in America) gets better mileage, and the up coming VW Tiguan will offer TDI as an option. For about same price as a fully loaded Vue you can get a turbo RDX and still get better mileage.

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/13/americans-crave-the-cr-v-replaces-ford-explorer-as-best-selling/

http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/04/vw-tiguan-will-get-diesel-power-in-us/

http://www.thecarconnection.com/Vehicle_Reviews/SUVs_Wagons/2007_Acura_RDX.S181.A10515.html

The small SUV field is getting more competitive and GM should do better than this.

[SaturnVUE04]

Woah! No offense but I really don't like that plood in the Rav4. To each his own though. I'm more of an aluminum guy. I don't really care for the Rav4 styling. Also the swinging tailgate is a definate negative in my book. Never driven one but I bet it's fast and the interior quality is better than average.

Back to the VUE...
I really do like the new one. It's growing on me. People say it's too small, but I think it's perfect. Small will be in over the summer and future when gas keeps going up. The interior quality looks GREAT! I'm really excited to see how it sells! I really would consider one for my next car, but I want a manual, and I think I'm giong to go semi-luxury sedan next time. If the AURA gives me a manual, i'm there!

[davidsky]

Gas mileage is disappointing. My 04 RL corrected to the 08 EPA rating is still 18mpg city and 26 highway.
The small SUV field is getting more competitive and GM should do better than this.

I vote for the Jeep Patriot, because it's cheap.
All the others are too much money.

[06VRL]

Are you comparing the Outlook's 2008 mpg numbers to the 2008 VUE's mpg numbers? There is a difference--remember, the EPA has changed their test procedures for 2008.

To the Outlooks latest updated mileage numbers!

[06VRL]

2007 V6 Rav4 Limited.

Marv, I was wondering, how does that JBL Sound System sound?

[MarvC]

Marv, I was wondering, how does that JBL Sound System sound?
We had the enhanced audio/DVD package in the 07 VUE we traded in, the JBL has slightly more low end due to the JBL sub woofer in the rear area and a more dynamic midrange compared to the VUE's system possibly due to (10) speakers through out the car.
Both system sound very nice and will meet the needs over the stock head units. The JBL has more power amp wise then the VUE's system.
The primary reason we wanted the JBL is the use of the BlueTooth capability of the system. We both liked OnStar so very much.
I paired our two phones thru the system and now all calls are voice activated only using minutes from our cell's, this is a major plus for the system.
I have to be careful on the Saturn forum as well as the Toyota forum. WE have two Saturns in the house, our Son who is a Tech at Saturn and in no way want to be as a troll to anyone.
What I do see in the Toyota is very very good interior material and leather and no wind noise as well as a very quiet ride over the 07 VUE we owned. The muscle car performance is an added plus. It is my wifes ride, little does she know she is driving a missile.
I believe Saturn (Opel) will sell the heck out of the 08 VUE in fact I was on the pre-order list for a fully loaded XR pushing a little over 30K before my sons discount.
Just a few things changed my mind to go the route I took.
I have the Ion-2 which I only owe a small amount on, the Aura XE is looking pretty good right now.

Many Thanks,
MC

[crj19]

Edmunds Review


http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FullTests/articleId=120836?tid=edmunds.il.home.photopanel..2 .*

[06VuePcola]

The gas mileage seems to be the main concern of the reviews. I guess the greenline may really be worth the extra money on the 08' model.

[Jerome10]

The Edmunds article said they averaged about 20, and that they have a heavy foot.

I think the EPA number look pretty bad because of the 2008 change (we're not used to it), but the real-world mileage, while not great, is not bad for the class either.

I know most people with a Jeep Liberty or Ford Escape get about 17-18 all around. If you could get 20-21 all around in the VUE, with a lot more features, and just an overall nicer car and far better engine/transmission, that really isn't that bad for this class.

Yeah, we all wish it was better, but I don't think its so bad (compared to the class) that its really gonna kill VUE sales any more than it is going to kill RAV4 or Escape sales.

[davidsky]

All these reviews are of the V6 XR. we probably won't see a review of the GL or a 4 cylinder for a while.

[06VuePcola]

I agree that we haven't really gotten used to the new mileage ratings yet but I don't think the old ones were that far off. I typically get 19 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway with my vue and those numbers are pretty close to the old epa rating. I do think that the decreased gas mileage could be a big deal though granted the numbers stated are correct. I would expect a newer model to have not only increased performance over the older one, but also better mpg. Maybe I'm just too accustomed to the mpg numbers associated with the previous generation vue and maybe improving on those numbers is too much to expect or maybe the new epa ratings are overly conservative, only time will tell...

[SaturnPlanet]

Have you guys been inside one yet? They definitely put a lot attention to the details (flocked storage areas, lighted/locked glove box). even the little rubbery thingamajiggy for the windshield wipers is nice :yes:

At any rate, it is quite an improvement over the interior in the previous models.