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Saturn VUE I 2.2 i 16V AWD (145 Hp)
Overall Rating
Saturn VUE:
The Saturn Vue is a compact SUV that was built and marketed by Saturn, and it was Saturn's best-selling model. It was the first vehicle to use the GM Theta platform when it was introduced in 2001 for the 2002 model year. The Vue was facelifted for the 2006 model year. A second generation model was launched in 2007 for the 2008 model year as a rebadged Opel Antara.
Vue production in North America ended as GM discontinued the Saturn brand as part of the 2009 General Motors Chapter 11 reorganization....(Read more on Wikipedia)
I Overview:
Saturn VUE (I). With 206 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.2 l/100km). With a weight of 1560 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 11.1 s). The top speed reaches 160 km/h. A rugged vehicle built to handle rough terrains and challenging driving conditions. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Saturn VUE I was not tested by Euro NCAP. US-based safety ratings (NHTSA, IIHS) showed mixed results, with good frontal crash protection but concerns regarding side impact safety without optional airbags.
2.2 i 16V AWD (145 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Offers adequate performance for daily commuting and light utility, but acceleration is modest, especially with AWD. Suitable for those prioritizing traction over speed.
Fuel Economy
Average fuel economy for a compact AWD SUV of its era. Not exceptionally frugal but acceptable for its capabilities.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Versatile interior with ample cargo space
- • Available powerful V6 engines (especially Red Line)
- • Dent-resistant polymer body panels
- • Good value on the used market
Cons:
- • Interior quality can feel cheap
- • Base 4-cylinder engine is underpowered for some
- • Some models had transmission issues (especially early automatics)
- • Road noise can be noticeable
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Saturn |
| Model: | VUE |
| Generation: | I |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.2 i 16V AWD (145 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2001 |
| End of production: | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 145 Hp @ 5600 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 66 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 206 Nm @ 4000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | L61 |
| Engine displacement: | 2198 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.7 l |
| Coolant: | 7 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 86 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 94.6 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 11.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.1 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 160 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.6 kg/Nm, 132.1 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 10.5 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1560 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 860 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 59 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4605 mm |
| Width: | 1817 mm |
| Height: | 1689 mm |
| Wheelbase: | 2707 mm |
| Front track: | 1550 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1550 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R16 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer |
Does the Saturn VUE live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!