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2008 Saturn Vue Red Line: A Good Look
Do you know of or remember any Saturn vehicle that ever had the “streets” talking? Well, I recently tested a 2008 Saturn Vue Red Line that, on several occasions, had bystanders hitting me with the “thumbs up” asking me how fast it goes and generally jocking my ride! This got me thinking, when did a Saturn become a hot ride?
 No disrespect intended, but in the past a Saturn was like an American Hyundai. A car purchase driven by economics, a “get me from A to B car” so to speak. It appealed to first time car buyers, new drivers, and those not looking to necessarily get there in style.
But today is a new day, and this Saturn Vue Red Line has its sights set on higher-end European and Japanese competition. Just looking at the Vue Red Line from the outside, you get an aggressive, visually appealing sense of it. The Vue Red Line flows from the “big face” front mesh grille and spoiler kit, to the side vents, to the strong lines that flow back to the dual chrome trapezoidal exhaust tips and to the 18” alloy wheels. The Vue Red Lines exudes a strength not usually associated with a Saturn product.
Under the hood is a 3.6-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission pumping out a spirited 252 horsepower. My tester was equipped with an all-wheel drive system that made handling even better as Atlanta was pelted with heavy rain during most of my test week. The engine achieves a stated EPA fuel economy of 16 city/22 highway, though it seemed to suck more gas than that, as I was frequently feeling up with V-Power. Could have something to do with my foot constantly probing all 252 horses!
The Vue Red Line interior really reminds me of its European counterparts in look and touch. The all-black scheme with leather wrapped steering wheel, heated leather sport front seats with red stitching and perforated suede inserts was a nice touch. The embroidered floor mats and Red Line graphic instrument cluster also stood out. This model also includes a navigation system, power everything, six-speaker audio system, XM Satellite Radio and more. Legroom for front and rear passengers is sufficient and cargo room in the rear is plentiful.
Safety attributes include GM’s OnStar system, “StabiliTrak” electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, multiple airbags, active head restraints, and more.
All together, the 2008 Saturn Vue Red Line was a surprise to me and apparently consumers out there that did not know they could purchase an American made, European inspired SUV for a reasonable price. Packages vary as there are three engines types along with two transmissions available. Prices range from $21,395 to $31,865 as tested. A hybrid version of the Vue is also on the way.
With products like the Sky roadster and the Vue Red Line, Saturn is opening itself up to new demographics. If Saturn has not crossed the line to the cool and hip, it is not because they are not trying.
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