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• Exterior
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Saturn VUE Hybrid - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Saturn VUE Hybrid ranks 23 out of 26 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 33 published reviews and test drives of the Saturn VUE Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Formerly called the Green Line, the VUE Hybrid offers decent gas mileage at an affordable sticker price. The 2010 VUE is unchanged and continues to offer weaker performance than its competition.

"The 4-cylinder Hybrid costs about $5000 more than the conventional 4-cylinder model," says Consumer Guide. "It may be frugal, but that stiff price premium might take years of fuel savings to offset." 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.

General Motors, Saturn's parent brand, emerged from bankruptcy in 2009. However, in September General Motors announced its intention to shut down the Saturn Corporation after a plan to sell the car builder to Penske Automotive group fell through. Because of financial troubles, GM has also cancelled production of the highly anticipated 2 Mode VUE model, a full hybrid that would have improved fuel economy and performance.The Saturn brand will be phased out over time, so those interested in a VUE Hybrid might want to act sooner rather than later.

The VUE Hybrid comes in front-wheel drive with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine.

• "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

VUE-Hybrid Performance - 7.0 (Good)

The 2010 Saturn VUE Hybrid's performance pales in comparison to similar SUVs. On the plus side, of course, is its good fuel economy. "Performance is not the Vue's strong suit, although it does provide a comfortable ride around town with enough pep for most urban situations," says CNET. Read More

VUE-Hybrid Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)

The Saturn VUE Hybrid, formerly called the Green Line, has middle-of-the-pack styling that doesn't really look any different from the gasoline-powered VUE. "From the outside, looking at the Green Line is like looking at any other Vue," says Edmunds. "Only the Hybrid badge on the fender identifies this tree-hugger special." Read More

VUE-Hybrid Interior - 7.3 (Good)

The 2010 Saturn VUE Hybrid's cabin boasts relatively high-quality materials, especially considering its affordable price. Still, the front seats get mixed reviews and the back seat is cramped. "Materials quality and assembly of models tested are arguably the best in the compact-SUV class," says Consumer Guide. Read More

VUE-Hybrid Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The VUE Hybrid does very well in federal government crash tests. In 2008, Saturn added much-needed electronic stability control and side-curtain air bags to the list of standard items. Read More

VUE-Hybrid Reliability - NA

The Saturn VUE Hybrid comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Read More