2008 Saturn Vue: Second Opinion
To note that the 2008 Saturn Vue represents a huge improvement over its predecessor is a classic understatement. That clunky old box of junky plastic only did one thing better than the new Vue: provide comfort and cargo space. The redesigned Vue has a tighter back seat and smaller cargo compartment than the old model, and I find the driving position awkward on a seat that is too small and which provides too much lumbar support even when dialed all the way down. Neither Vue’s styling does it for me, and the silly side vents on the 2008 version are extraneous. Add a telescopic steering wheel and a better driver’s seat, and I’d have little to complain about here. --Christian Wardlaw

2008 Saturn Vue: Second Opinion
Saturn’s finally stopped designing “sensible looking” vehicles and started making ones people might want to drive. Granted, the Vue looks like a dozen other vehicles, but mistaken identity definitely outshines its predecessor’s unique frumpiness. Our test model had numerous quality issues like misaligned body panels and interior plastic gaps. Being number 52 off the production line, hopefully this will be resolved soon. Torque-steer was a problem, and the ride bumpy. The new V-6 is peppy and more than adequate easily producing power faster than the transaxle can get it to the ground. Wind, road and engine noise were present, but below conversation levels. Seats were comfortable with adequate room for four. Unfortunately, Saturn planned for five. They finally got me to look, but I’m still walking away. -- Vernon Heywood

2008 Saturn Vue: Second Opinion
Typically, upward mobility is a gradual process, one characterized by continual improvement. In that light, the 2008 Saturn Vue is a success. Showcasing fresh style and three new home-grown powertrains (no more Honda-sourced V-6s for 2008), Saturn’s revamped little crossover leaves its predecessor in its dust. Such a move required adopting a model from Europe’s Opel lineup, but hey, if its gets the job done, who’s to argue? We drove a front-wheel-drive XR with the powerful and refined 3.6-liter V-6 engine mated to a smooth-shifting, manually-interactive six-speed automatic transmission. With plenty of grunt, albeit accented by a small degree of torque-steer, the muscle under the hood is clearly the 2008 Vue’s strongest asset. The styling is a plus, too, but I’m not crazy about the round reflectors in the rear fascia, or the fact that the dimensions don’t allow for a third row seat, something that a Toyota RAV4 competitor would be happy to provide. Other detractions include a transmission that’s hard to get into gear, a multitude of steering wheel and power seat adjustments that still left me without a comfortable driving position, and a base sticker price that’s about $3,000 higher than last year. Saturn officials claim that the level of standard equipment serves as justification, but no matter how you slice it, returning Vue shoppers will likely view $3,000 as a helluva pill to swallow. Let’s not even discuss the lack of a current sunroof option. Better in every way, but given competitors including the RAV4 and Santa Fe, not what I’d consider best. -- Thom Blackett

2008 Saturn Vue: Second Opinion
If the new Vue is an accurate indicator, the days of the tinny, noisy and cheap Saturn products are a thing of the past. The Vue looks, feels and rides like a much more expensive vehicle than it is. The acceleration will surprise you as will the comfort and build quality. Wind noise is minimal but there is a bit too much engine noise seeping into the cabin, especially under hard acceleration. I also experienced a searching transmission when kicking it down into passing gear. Overall I walked away from my drive impressed and excited to see an American car company making such great strides to build a vehicle that can be competitive against the foreign competition. -- Ron Perry