Saturn Raises Its VUE

The term “road presence” is used to describe how well a car or truck sets itself apart from surrounding vehicles. For example, the Cadillac Catera has little road presence — so little that if it’s painted dark gray, it is in danger of disappearing from view.

Perhaps the best attribute of the new VUE is that it both looks and drives like a more expensive vehicle. That’s a dramatic departure from other Saturn models that either look “affordable” like the S series or are bathed in chrome like the new L to get attention.

Our VUE was equipped with the competent 3-liter V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission that are found in the L Series cars. In fact, the VUE sits atop the L platform, with four-wheel independent suspension and all-wheel drive. The suspension was tight and communicated well with the road without the penalty of unnecessary harshness.

Driving the tall Saturn was hardly a chore, with electric assisted rack-and-pinion steering keeping it pointed in the desired direction. The front disc/rear drum brakes are adequate for routine driving, with an ABS system available as a $600 option. Side curtain air bags for head protection are the other safety item on the option list, for a rather reasonable $395.

One unique option package is labeled “active expression” and for $1,225 adds all the rugged accents, from a grille guard to step plates, that shout off-road capability. The package also adds the function of neoprene seat covers and rubber floor mats for easy cleaning. Although the ground clearance is eight inches, the VUE’s off-road capability is moderate — just a bit better than most tall wagon competitors.

I also had a chance to drive a VUE equipped with 4-cylinder engine mated to Saturn’s new continuously variable automatic transmission and was impressed with its performance. While it is not as powerful as the V6, the seamless delivery of power is intoxicating and the 21/28 MPG fuel economy is better than many sedans, allowing you to commute to the local Sierra Club meeting with a straight face.

Frankly, it’s about time that Saturn had a vehicle as interesting as its retail experience. People who have owned Saturn products seem to like the cars, and Saturn’s service ranks with some luxury makes in customer satisfaction. The new VUE has all the Saturn attributes, from the rigid space frame to composite body panels that resist dents, and it’s available at a low sticker price. Those are good attributes in a tight economy.