#19

in Affordable Compact SUVs

Based on analysis of 32 VUE-Hybrid reviews and test drives.

MSRP: NA
Invoice: NA
MPG: 25 City / 32 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:7.0
Performance:6.7
Exterior:7.9
Interior:6.5
Safety:9.9
Reliability:4.0
Research we analyzed for this review
  • Inexpensive for a hybrid SUV
  • New 2 Mode model is even more fuel-efficient
  • No available all-wheel drive
  • Sub-par handling
  • Uncomfortable rear seat

Saturn VUE Hybrid - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Saturn VUE Hybrid ranks 19 out of 23 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 32 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.

General Motors recently announced plans to sell the Saturn brand to the Penske Automotive Group, and for the foreseeable future, business should continue as usual for Saturn buyers and owners.  GM will even supply the cars to Penske for the next few years.

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
  • "The 2009 Saturn Vue Hybrid had me all giddy. I was thrilled there was a challenger to the Ford Escape Hybrid in the American-made-small-hybrid-SUV category. I've seen the non-hybrid Vue out and about, and I really like its looks. I was excited to try a cute-looking, domestic hybrid that's small but could carry my family of four through winter's snow and ice - terrific!" -- Mother Proof

VUE-Hybrid Performance - 6.7 (Mediocre)

The 2009 Saturn VUE Hybrid offers adequate enough performance, but it still pales in comparison to similar SUVs. CNET concludes, "Performance is not the Vue's strong suit, although it does provide a comfortable ride around town with enough pep for most urban situations." The new 2 Mode version may improve reviewers' opinions, but we'll have to wait until their initial test drives to know for sure. continue

VUE-Hybrid Exterior - 7.9 (Good)

The Saturn VUE Hybrid's middle-of-the-pack styling looks very similar to 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." continue

VUE-Hybrid Interior - 6.5 (Mediocre)

For such an affordable vehicle, the 2009 Saturn VUE Hybrid's cabin boasts relatively high-quality materials. Still, comfort suffers -- the front seats get mixed reviews and the back seat is cramped. "As in a standard Vue, the interior plastic and fabric aren't top of the class, but for an SUV they come off as utilitarian and would likely hold up well over time," says Cars.com. continue

VUE-Hybrid Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The VUE Hybrid does very well in federal government crash tests. Last year, Saturn added electronic stability control and side-curtain air bags to the list of standard items. continue

VUE-Hybrid Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)

The 2009 Saturn VUE Hybrid reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Saturn VUE Hybrid comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. continue

Review Last Updated: 6/5/09