The 2009 Saturn VUE Hybrid ranks 23 out of 27 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 30 published reviews and test drives of the Saturn VUE Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.The VUE Hybrid is a green SUV that offers decent gas mileage at an affordable sticker price. Though not as fuel-efficient as some other hybrids, a new 2 Mode model for 2009 provides improved fuel economy.
Aside from dropping the "Green Line" moniker from its name, the Saturn VUE Hybrid is relatively unchanged for this year and continues to offer weaker performance than its competition. However, the new 2 Mode model could change that -- its full hybrid system should dramatically increase the SUV's gas mileage. "The arrival of the Vue Green Line 2 Mode, which is scheduled to go into production in late 2008, questions the future of the existing 'mild-hybrid' Vue Green Line," says Motor Trend. "It appears GM is going to keep that model around as a lower-cost alternative."
The base hybrid VUE commands a $2,000 premium over the gasoline-powered model, while the new 2 Mode version costs even more. Still, reviewers especially like the VUE Hybrid's low sticker price relative to the competition. However, there's a price to pay for the lower sticker -- competitors such as the Ford Escape Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid generally offer better performance or nicer interiors.
But if you're interested in a VUE Hybrid, get one while you can. Keeping a promise made to Congress to drastically cut costs, GM recently announced that it will sell or close the Saturn brand. While this means that VUE Hybrids will start to depreciate faster than they have been, it also means that major discounts on Saturn models are likely, particularly if GM can't find a buyer for the band and simply shuts Saturn down. If that happens, Saturn warranties should be honored at other GM dealerships. If you can deal with the depreciation, a shaky market for GM means great deals for buyers who like the VUE Hybrid.The VUE Hybrid comes in front-wheel drive with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine. The new 2 Mode model gets a 3.6-liter V6.
* "By building a reasonably attractive hybrid SUV with a maximum towing load of 3500 pounds and performance that matches its non-hybrid stablemate, Saturn is living up to its new image as a carmaker no longer interested in dull, appliance-like vehicles." -- Popular Mechanics * "The Vue Green Line is not luxurious, but it is well-appointed for its price range. And as hybrid SUVs go, it is the real deal when it comes to fuel economy." -- Boston Globe * "The Vue Green Line is not the answer to everyone's transportation needs, but it will work well as an economical suburban and urban workhorse for delivering kids, picking up groceries and a host of other chores associated with the growing family." -- The Family Car
