2008 Saturn Vue

The new generation's body goes crossover curvy, shedding its straight-laced body panels. It looks more car than truck, and that's a welcome change.

The new Vue's exterior is more innocuous than decisive. It looks nice, but it looks like everything else. If you want something that stands out, go elsewhere. That's not a negative comment, nice and inoffensive seems to be exactly what many consumers want. Everything on the exterior is thought out and precise. Things like the dual chrome-tipped exhaust pipes, the front fender moldings with a turn indicator mounted in it, and the roof rack are nice touches.

The fold flat split second row and front passenger seat allow for a number of ways to carry cargo.

2008 Saturn Vue

# Type:
A front-wheel drive, five-passenger crossover. All-wheel drive and mild hybrid models are available.

# Models:
XE, XR, Red Line and Green Line

# Retail price:
$21,355 - $32,000

# Engines
2.4-liter I-4, 164 hp, 160-lb-ft torque
3.5-liter V-6, 222-hp, 219-lb-ft torque
3.6-liter V-6, 250-hp, 243-lb-ft torque

# Transmission:
four- or six-speed automatic, sequential shifting available

# EPA mileage
2.4-liter: XE, FWD: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
3.5-liter: XE, AWD: 15/22
3.6-liter: XR FWD: 16/23, XR FWD w/ tap shifting: 16/24, XR AWD: 16/22

Performance: Good.
Good power with the V-6. Well mannered on the road, in parking lots and through tight turns.

Exterior: Good.
Stylish design stays true to its German heritage.

Interior: Excellent.
Well-laid out. Feels comfortable and uses cubbies, bins and drawers in good ways. Feels more luxurious than price.

Safety: Excellent.
Six standard airbags include side curtain for both rows. Anti lock brakes and electronic stability control standard. Collapsible pedals and active front row head restraints.

Pros:
Versatile crossover with good performance and excellent interior.

Cons:
Exterior design does not stand out in crowded crossover segment.

The Vue's instrument panel and dash is thoughtfully laid out and well built.