Saturn VUE I 3.5 i V6 24V Red Line AWD (253 Hp)


Overall Rating

6.9 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 327 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1680 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7 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.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
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.

3.5 i V6 24V Red Line AWD (253 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Combines the potent 253 hp V6 with all-wheel drive, delivering excellent acceleration (7 seconds 0-100 km/h) and superior traction in all conditions.

Fuel Economy

The least fuel-efficient option in the lineup, but acceptable for its high performance and AWD capability. Expect frequent trips to the pump.

Best Use Case: Performance enthusiasts, those needing strong acceleration and all-weather grip, and spirited driving on varied terrains.

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:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I: 2001 - 2007).

General:
Brand:Saturn
Model:VUE
Generation:I
Modification (Engine):3.5 i V6 24V Red Line AWD (253 Hp)
Start of production:2005
End of production:2007
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Off-road vehicle
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:253 Hp @ 5800 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:72.9 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:327 Nm @ 4500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:L66 More details about the engine L66
Engine displacement:3471
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:4.3 l
Coolant:9.2 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:89 mm
Piston Stroke:93 mm
Compression ratio:10:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:12.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:9.4 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7 sec
Maximum speed:160 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.6 kg/Hp, 150.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.1 kg/Nm, 194.6 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1680
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:860 l
Fuel tank capacity:59 l
Size:
Length:4605 mm [Same length.]
Width:1817 mm [Same width.]
Height:1689 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2707 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1550 mm
Rear (Back) track:1550 mm
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears5
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size235/60 R17
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionTransverse stabilizer

Behind the wheel of the Saturn VUE. How does it handle on the road?