I am in Chicago on the North Side (Logan Square neighborhood) and have seen at least 4 Vues on the streets. As there is only the one Saturn dealer in Chicago but several in the suburbs, I expect you will see more in the suburbs than in the city.
Saturn has never been about luxury. It has been about reliability, being treated right by the dealer, and price. The Vue seems to win on all three. My wife wants a 4 cyl. and the auto. Not available yet.
If you're waiting to see a car for over a year, you're set up for some disappointment, I'd say. The dash and controls look like any other saturn to me, whether that's good or bad.
As for the aztek, only by comparing it to the original design could someone conclude the new design looks good, imo. That the new look is still warthog-like is demonstrated by the far greater number of envoys and rendevous one sees on the road. People are buying GM products and paying more for them to avoid an aztek.
shelleyb : Look at the price and then you realize why this truck is not a luxury truck. Saturn is about affordable. transportation. Test one and work out the payments compared to a CR-V and you will see the value.
gm_litogation : The sport-package is real. Unfortunately I could not order one from Canada so I am hoping they will bring the next package up here also. It likely means the difference between me buying one and not.
Thought I would pop over from the cr-v board and see what people are saying about the VUE. I had considered it before buying the cr-v. I found the VUE to be very cheap looking, worst than a Ford. I find it strange some will just blow over rattles, cheap plastics, etc when in fact the cr-v, or any Honda car, has proven to be one of the best out there. I am not a Honda fanatic - this is my first Honda, but it will not be my last - Honda makes really great cars! My Honda dealer was very courteous and helpful - I think it depends upon who you deal with - I always deal with credit union/fleet rep people - they are not the scum that walk the floor all day long. Just my 2 cents.
I was informed about the Sports Edition by the dealer... I had test driven about a week before, and was surprised to get his call - but it was the deal-breaker for me, as the VUE without the special pricing was just outside our budget.
As for the interior... what would people have liked? I don't actually LIKE cars with seat fabric used as "wallpaper" - hard to clean and I don't think it looks good. If I can't have high end car leather and luxe, I don't think it makes that much difference.
Lastly, now that the struts have been adjusted, my car is utterly rattle, creak and squeak free. Aside from teh acceleration noise, it's vey quiet. For the record...
I tend to agree with most magazine comparisons that I have read in that the VUE and the CR-V are a very close match up. Each truck has it's flaws and short comings. Don't know where you read the VUE has rattles, but both of the ones I have driven were rock solid.
I like the CR-V a lot, but lets face it, it has problems also. Have you even driven a VUE???
It is not like I had been holding out and waited for the Vue for the year... I am still not ready to buy and during that year or so, I continues researchng other vehicles, but did not waht to make a decision until I saw the Vue, not sure what I'll get now though, still looking. I do all that researching stuff on line, do all the comparisons... everything, but it all boils down to this: if when I sit in all the seats of a vehicle... including the back seats, and say to myself "ick", "not comfy", "my & my husbands golf clubs won't even fit in here", or "this feels cheap & looks cheap".... then the car is scratched off my list; that is what happened with the Vue. Reading all the specs before it though, I really thought this vehicle would work, but It didn't so I'll move on from this forum. Besides, like I said before, I felt it was a generic gmc product, a"Plane-Jane" vehicle, besides I don't like any of the colors, and I really do want my next vehicle to be a color I will be happy with. I wanna keep my next vehicle for a while and don't wanna get tired of it. Yes the price is right, gas mileage too, just not anything else about it. I was surprised that that Hyundai Santa Fe was very comfy with bells & whistles in it...good price too and gas mileage... but I don't think I will get a Hyundai or a Kia, though I will check out the new Kia Senata or some name like that when it comes out this summer. I am really the Yukon/Tahoe kind of person and Iguess I like gadgets. I am definelty not the CR-V, Rav4 person. I have a '74 International Scout, hard top convertable, auto, 4wd, etc.. now that is an orginal SUV :-) Just needs some TLC and $$$$ put into it to. As for the Vue delaerships... so far all dealrships have been extremely nice & helpful and would you believe, honest! My sister inlaw just bought 2 new vehicle at our local Mazda dealership because of the salesperson! (no she is not rich, just sold her home and was in amust need vehicle situation since their FORD took a dump!!!!) Ford is a whole other can of worms though. What about the Mitsubishi Montero Sport Suv??? Any comparison to the Saturn? I'l have to do some research on it.
There will be another sport package and how is the vue reliability. I called the dealer recently that did the local auto show. He stated to me the sport package will be available in two weeks(of course in a limited number). I will be putting my name on the list. The only way I will not be putting my name on the list is if I hear some bad comments from current four cylinder Vue owners. If you are having problems could you please let me know. For the money it seems like a very good buy. I will be selling my toyota truck of ten years, which has given me no problems. Any more complaints about the cd player.
ha-ha, normal size golf bags. But seriously, I was looking at the back area and those wheel wells stick out too much, and I don't wanna travel with that seat down just for golf bags. I like lots of room and comfort, the Vue just didn't rate, for me that is. Yeah, a Suburban or Tahoe is more the comfort and space and gadgets I want, but one, I can't afford the cost to get one can't afford to keep one because of the gas mileage... I drive 80 miles everyday, over some rough roads, a dirt road too, a 8% grade and an old highway. Not sure what vehicle will suit me. I just was unimpressed by the Vue... I had never really been in or seen a Saturn upclose and personal until I checked the Vue out, just heard goods things about them. oh well.
IF, the Vue gets a GREAT crash rating test, I WILL look at one again and this time bring my hubby along to check it out too, and I will REALLY-REALLY check it all out and really thnik about what is important all that. OK.
Shelley darling, if you think that comparing the Mitsubishi Montero or Chevy Tahoe / Suburban to the Saturn VUE is doing research then you need to do a lot more sweetie. These vehicles are not in the came class babe.
It sounds to me that you want to buy a Cadillac Escalade but at the price of a Geo Tracker.
Your best bet may be to go to a used car dealer and find that Suburban or Tahoe that has the room, comfort & gadgets that you are looking for.
I have to wonder why you keep telling people the Vue is a better value than other SUVs (you know which one!!). The prices have been posted, they are very close and of course the V6 Vue is higher priced than the competitors 4 cylinders. Let them make their decision.
I saw it one on the road the other day. Before I realized what it was, I thought it was a modern day VW Thing. It was red. I will have to take a second look, maybe a different color will help my perception?
First off, saw one the board poster's orange VUE (I think) in MI between Auburn Hills and Detroit on Monday around 15:30 on I 75-S.
I have owned my VUE since 3/9/02 and can say all in all still happy with the vehicle. On highway travel with cruise I am averaging 27.2 mpg. It's the first American vehicle that is close to it's epa rating that I have ever owned. Now for the good news/bad news that everyone needs:
1. The radio is still great, no problems with the CD player (answer to previous post), but I have the AM/FM, Cassette, 6 disc CD Changer. 2. On fit and finish - just noticed that the C pillar (panel?) is out of alignment on the left side of the vehicle and am taking it on on Thursday to have it fixed. Those of you that read all of the postings may recall that my bumper was out of alignment as well, so this makes fit and finish problem number two for those of you at home keeping score. 3. Concern with starting - not easy to explain, but basically there appear to be a dead spot in the starter or problem with something electrical. In my 1200 miles of driving the problem has occurred three times (this morning being the third). The car turns over to start and then seems to stop turning over, even though I still have the key turned and then start again. The problem is best described as a hiccup during the start. The car starts without a hitch, but the sound is interesting during that "hiccup" while the starter is turning over. Again, the problem will be looked at on Thursday, but I would like to know if anyone else experienced the problem. 4. Seats - still a lot more comfortable than the Prizm replaced, but not as comfortable as say a Nissan Xterra (having spent three hours in one this past weekend). 5. Cargo capacity - I have a 30" upright case in the back of the VUE, along with two backpacks, two pillows and two twelve packs of soda. All of the cargo fit under the cargo cover. My suggestion is to take a golf bag (or two if that's how many you normally carry) to the Saturn dealership and try it out for yourself. 6. Steering wheel - cruise control buttons make it difficult to find that long drive comfortable driving position. That is, I found it difficult to use the armrests with the shape of the wheel. Eventually, I lowered the wheel once cruise was set so it would be less tiring. 7. Armrests - the door armrests are a bit hard, even compared to the ones on the seat. 8. Steering - still too quick to change direction for a vehicle that has the disposition to rollover. Again, I have found the over-assisted steering to be common in many new cars (Honda Civic, Ford Escape, etc.) so this may be a personal issue.
Overall, to those of you that are considering the 4 cylinder, I have no complaints on performance. I have been able to merge onto the highway without breaking a sweat or revving the engine above 3500 rpms. Those of you concerned with noise, I don't find it any noisier than any other 4 cylinders I have owned. It is noticeable when pushing hard (as in brisk acceleration), but at highway speeds not an issue. For example at 80 mph, the tach reads 3500 rpms, at 70, 3000. I have found the five speed to be extremely flexible puling the car from 45 to 70 on the highway when traffic allowed at an acceptable rate. Of course, if one has the need to really get moving, a downshift to fourth may be appropriate. The cruise control on the VUE works well.
Overall, I think the VUE was still the best vehicle for me, but I have tried to list the good and bad so that those of you considering the VUE.
I don't know US pricing, but a similarly equipped VUE up here goes for about C$1000-1500 less than a CR-V (both 4 cyl models). That to me is a better value and last time I checked this was an opinion board so my comments are more than legitimate. I know you like Honda's and I like the CR-V also, but IMO the VUE is a better buy over all.
erunic, I can't seem to find a previous post on a CD/radio problem with the VUE. Could you please reiterate the issue that some people have had with it?
Startup: I have occasionally heard something similar on mine, although I've never had to re-turn the key - there's just kind of a milisecond of "dead spot" as you put it. It's yet to be a problem, though - didn't actually think about it until I read your post...
Mileage: Now, here I'm impressed. I've yet to get better than 26 out of it, and generally I can coax high mileage out of my cars.... I'm actually going to have them check all possibilities at its 3000 mile service next week: I got better mileage in my first tank than I have since, and I'm not sure why.... I want to ensure there's no reason for it to be getting poorer mileage. I'd be VERY happy with 27 highway (I'm probably getting about 25). What sort of speed are you cruising at?
ITA about the steering - I wish there was just a little bit more play in the wheel so it wasn't QUITE so responsive at high speed. It's not a problem as such, but I agree that they probably ought to tweak it a little.
Where I DO differ with you is the seats -- despite some initial reservations (because they were VERY different from the seats in my old car), I will now say they are THE MOST COMFORTABLE seats of any car I've had. The only seats I've ever been in that I found better are VW ones (which have a squillion different adjustments, so you get practically custom seats). The VUE seats are GREAT for me, though --I'm not getting butt-weary on long drives, my back doesn't stiffen up, and I don't get that "folded, spindled and mutliated" feeling 2 hours in. I LOVE the seats.
My only current woe is that the ABS light has come on and stayed on, so there's something wrong there - they're going to fix it at the service next week (I gather that the light indicates a problem in the ABS, but that the regular brakes are just fine).
I'm going to trust that these are just teething troubles... I love the car so much that I'm not even finding the "tweaks" it's needed that annoying (normally I'd be spitting venom at having to return to the dealer so soon). Of course, I'm doing SO many miles that I'm in there once a month just for regular MAINTENANCE visits! Sigh.....
First off, not sure why the discrepancy in the Great White North, has the Loony (sp?) lost value again? .
By my calculations in the US a 2WD Auto 4 Cyl. Vue equipped similarly (again that options thing) to a CR-V LX 2WD has a retail price of $18355. The CR-V LX has an invoice of $17811. The CR-V LX has things on it that the Vue doesn't, to make it similar you would have to add the $1360 power package to the Vue, that would give the Vue a few extra items but also much more $.
A 4WD Auto 4 cyl Vue would have a retail price of $19950. Again you would have to add the power package ($1360) to bring it closer to the CR-V 4WD LX which has an invoice of $18918.
I already posted the CR-V EX cost. So by my calculation, in the US the Vue is more expensive than the CR-V. Now I realize I listed invoice prices and people don't seem to be able to get that at least now. But even figuring in higher than invoice I think there is not as big a price difference as some who lead you to believe, at least in the US.
The CD Player answer was in response to markopolo #1014. I have not had any problems with the sound system on my VUE.
Fuel Economy, I tend to be a bit aggressive with acceleration so I was pleased with the results. wmacblue, I tend to drive 5 - 9 mph over the posted limit. On the trip to Canada averaged 72 mph in the U.S. and 68 mph (110 kmh) in Canada (was warned they were on high enforcement). I pretty much ignore the shift up light, but will shift into 4th once I get around 40 mph if I have no need to accelerate. Another thing I am going to change is to a K&N air filter after I reach the life of the Saturn filter. I have found these to help on our other vehicles for both performance and economy (1993 Corolla, 1994 Prizm, 1998 Prizm Lsi). Wmacblue I am using 87 gas from one of the "sunshine" gas stations (read Shell).
Seats - I think it is a matter of opinion. They are comfortable, but could use more cushion to them (especially the rear seats). I have found adjusting the height of seat does give some lumbar and thigh support. Since I have owned this vehicle, my knee has stopped bothering me, so there is no doubt that they are better. The problem is you can feel the frame in your back on the seats. --> Eric
A lot of people are concerned about 1st year issues. So maybe it's not wise to buy a completely new vehicle. I've had several test drives,but these will not indicate the "owners" experience. I am considering the AWD 6, and am looking for feedback on this engine, being that the other issues are related to the VUE itself. Perhaps the problems will be corrected if I wait til July to take delivery. I haven't bought a GM car for many years. So I don't know if they do their tweaks as they arise or wait until the problems mushroom like FORD. Would you buy it again if you were in the market now?
you're not factoring in the 4cyl sport package... WITH the package (power everything, cd player, upgraded wheels, sunroof) the whole shebang comes in at $17900. FWIW.
GM LITO: Please try to hold your insulting remarks and stick to the facts and YOUR opinion.
I still think the Aztek looks "abominable" and that would INCLUDE the 2002 model. Guess I AM with the program, just not your program. By the way, Maynard said it best . . . the Aztek looks like a warthog (still laughing)
Secondly, just because you choose to not check more thoroughly into the price of the Sport Vue doesn't mean it doesn't exist. I would say that since there are SEVERAL owners of the Sport vue on this website alone, it DOES exist. If you are still having trouble believing this, try visiting your local Saturn dealer. But I think it is simply wrong to mislead people on the price differences between two vehicles because you haven't done appropriate research.
Folks, we have had these arguments on price difference on this board over and over. Just a piece of advice from a smart consumer, if you want to know the price of two vehicles you are considering. VISIT THE DEALERSHIPS!! The prices are so varied as seen on this board across the country and there are so many dealer discounts and "special" packages that it is impossible to take the word of any "amateurs" on a message board. As you can see in the history of this board, the price quotes are all over. And I can tell you TMV is only helpful if there are no special programs or discounts. Honda has some programs in some places right now and Saturn Vue has a specially priced Sport that is available. When you are spending this kind of money, you want to make the decision yourself based on real-world data. So if you wanna know, go check it out. Don't trust someone else with such an important decision.
JAFO: Vue has "cheap switches and loads of rattles and creaks and hard plastic" I actually went out and looked at my Vue to see where the cheap switches were. I even compared the switches to those in a friend's CRV and another friend's Cougar. The switches were comparable as was the hard plastic dash. I am not sure what switches you are talking about. Could you explain? As far as rattles and creaks, when I first took delivery of my Vue, the steering column shell rattled a little. I took it to the dealership and they fixed it in a couple of minutes and I have not heard any rattles or creaks since. Other than the engine roar (described in earlier post), my Vue has a smooth quiet ride.
Shelly B: Read the reviews on that Montero Sport. It has a terrible safety record. And my dad and I play golf a lot and we fit both of our golf bags in the back of the Vue with no problem without putting the seats down. Perhaps you need a remeasurement.
I do think that comparing the Tahoe to the Vue is an apples and oranges comparison. But I also think that the poster who disagreed didn't need to use the familiar tone of the "honey" and "sweetie" bit. There's plenty of guys who post on here that could be called insulting names for their lack of knowledge. I don't think you need to demean Shelly for speaking her mind. Try not to act like a "redneck" fella.
Carguy: Again you are comparing apples to oranges. Some might say that you would expect to pay more for a 6 cylinder than a 4. Now if you take the straight 4 of the Vue and add the Power package the way you did, you will come out a little more expensive for the Vue. But I think many of us have visited Saturn and SEEN the real-world prices and FREE options of the SPORT model which is comparably equipped to the CRV and VERY MUCH CHEAPER. Check it out for yourself. 16,9K baby. Can't beat it!
when it isn't listed anywhere (at least where I've looked). The phantom package is how I look at it. Does Edmunds list it? Didn't see it. Saturn's own site doesn't even have it.
Say I'm a naive consumer (which most are despite what goes on here). I go to a website or car magazine to look up the price of the Vue and other SUVs I am interested in. I don't see anything about any sport package so I configue a Vue like I would want and I come up with a higher price than a comparably equipped CR-V. How would I know to go to a Saturn dealer to see what "special" they have today? I didn't think buying a car was like shopping for groceries. Maybe Saturn should throw a flyer in with the Sunday paper advertising this Sport Package.
I compared the Vue as it is listed on a reputable site. That is apples to apples in my book. I always said the V6 Vue will cost more than a 4 cyl. competitor so I don't know where that statement came from.
And as for the statement "16,9 Baby. Can't beat it!", that is your opinion. I can buy a Cavalier for $11K but that won't make it a worthwhile purchase for me. Usually you gets what you pay for. Does the Vue have a locking gas filler door? That always bothered me about GM vehicles.
1. Using invoice isn't fair since you can't get an 02 CR-V for less than list right now anywhere around these parts. The Honda salesman almost couldn't believe I asked.
2. Saturn prices include destination (and $100 a/c tax up here). Honda prices do not.
You can't buy a 2WD CR-V up here (unfortunately), but an AWD CRV is about C$1500 more than a similar VUE with the CVT up here.
FYI, right now one US$ = $1.57 Canadian. US$ has appreciated against every currency in the world over the past 6 months. It's brutal right now.
The prices I quoted for the CR-V included $440 destination. Again I don't know what goes on up north.
Another observation, the CR-V is shipped from Japan and Honda charges $440 destination. The Vue comes from somewhere in NA and they charge $510 (rather low as GM goes, Chevrolet charges $600 for the TrailBlazer). Some will say it is balanced by the price of the vehicle, to a point I suppose it is.
And who says you can't get a CR-V below MSRP? I did, so did many others. My salesman said the same thing at first too, then I negotiated. But looking at why people are paying MSRP or close, tells me something, what about you?
No negotiating on the 02 CR-V up here. Maybe demand isn't as strong in your area, I don't know. Honda dealers are sticky on price regardless and you will not get invoice on any model period. I don't know where you live, but I have read other U.S. posters that have had the same experience I have in terms of Honda pricing.
As for delivery charges, it's all averaged out. There is zero relation to the charge and where it comes from.
The price of the sport package should be published knowledge. At least put a crap banner on the Saturn website. If I were a consumer going to different websites to research different vehicles I was considering for purchase, I would know nothing of the mythical "Sport Package". As I have stated in previous post I have no doubt that it exist, it is just very hard to get solid evidence of it.
To put this matter to rest I will visit a Saturn dealership today, I will ask about the sport package. My somewhat unbiased opinion should settle this once and for all. If there is such a "sport package" I will get complete details of it and post them in this forum.
Onelucky I'm glad you think the VUE looks great, I only hope that others will like the looks of it too. Last year when GM introduced the Aztek it was immediately badged as "ugly" and slammed throughout the automotive media. Since that point the Aztek hasn't been able to shake that stigma. The Aztek is actually a pretty good vehicle despite the media slamming it's looks. All I ever stated was that the educated GM loyalite will have a hard time picking between the 2. Also I have read through some of the reviews of the Aztek, like the one here on Edmunds, they are no longer objective after their initial comments on looks.
Sorry Edmunds, that's just piss poor journalism...
Saturn did all this testing of the Honda CRV which they used as a benchmark. Saturn should have bought CRVs from Honda and reskinned them with Saturn Body Panels. It would be a great move to improve the quality and image of the entire Saturn line.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Why? How would a re-skinned CRV improve the image of Saturn??
The VUE stands up quite nicely compared to the CR-V. In fact I was reading Popular Science and they picked it over the CR-V and RAV4 as the best small SUV.
I have to agree with the other posters on prices of cars in a local vs. national area. It is not uncommon to miss a "special" or other on Edmunds and then to go to a dealership and learn about it. This is what happened to me with my on order VUE. This happens all the time with dealerships trying to move items. For instance a local Hyundai dealership is offering double your cash, which basically amounts to a $1500 dealership rebate. I almost considered the Sante Fe because of this, but I am too timid to try a Hyundai (bad repuation from too many friends).
I wish that Saturn would have advertised this package, but my understanding is that this was just to keep interest peeked in the VUE because of the delayed CVT introduction. Saturn probably figured that the average Joe wouldn't know that the CVT was delayed and then when he/she came in to check out the VUE with 4 cyl., the dealership could stop them from leaving by offering this great "sport package" deal.
They probably didn't want to advertise too much about the special because they didn't want speculation that there was anything wrong with the car. Read - why is Saturn offering such a low price on a model that should be in high demamd?...
Just my thoughts. I keep debating whether or not getting the VUE with the sport package is worth the first year bugs. But I need a SUV now and I like the VUE and its price with the package.
You are totally correct. The "sport package" was to fill production space until the CVT went on-line. I think your reasons for Saturn keeping it quiet are also probably right.
Where do get that Saturn benchmarked the CRV for the VUE? There are similarities in the vehicles but also many differences. For one thing, the CRV is on a platform designed for the Civic, while the VUE platform is SUV specific. Saturn in all does many things different than Honda across the board. I have driven in both. I am not all that impressed with the Honda vis-a-vis the VUE. Certainly not to the extent I would go through the garbage one gets at the Chicago area Honda dealers.
In any event, this is the Saturn VUE forum, not the CRV VUE comparo forum. If you and your CRV compadres like your choice of vehicle, fine. The fact you feel compelled to come here and bother people who prefer the VUE suggest an underlying lack of confidence. As if perhaps deep down you feel you made the wrong choice and the only way to make it right is to attack others. I am sure that there are many on-line self-esteem support groups. Why don't you all go there and live the VUE owners in piece to discuss their issues about their choice of vehicle?
Kudos logic1! Do you own a VUE? If so, which model and what has been your experience? I have been on the CR-V vs VUE post and the Honda folks seem overwhelming(of course,there are a lot more of them)
Check the price at your dealers but as I and others have said and still hold, the prices are different across the country! Get it . . . DIFFERENT across the country!
Just because you give a price from your dealer in Somewhere USA, doesn't mean it applies to others.
You talked about groceries . . .try comparing the price of a grocery item in Myrtle Beach South Carolina to a grocery item in Winston Salem North Carolina from the same Food Lion store. It ain't the same, fella. . . It's called SUPPLY . . AND . . DEMAND!!
It works the same with car business. And I can personally tell you from my "unbiased experience" in having JUST thoroughly researched and bought a new SUV in Somewhere Virginia that you will NOT find a CRV comparably equipped that can BEAT the price of the Sport VUE here. But I am smart enough to know that it may be different for you in Somewhere USA. All I suggested is that folks should check that out for THEMSELVES . . . You can be as unbiased as possible but unless you are coming to everybody's town for price info., you will only help those in YOUR town and I am sure they will be appreciative.
To the people who just want an answer on the prices . . .Ya wanna know the price of a Vue or CRV or any other car, check for yourself. Don't buy into someone else's opinion or impression of what's going on in their world. It's YOUR money! Be smart and do the research yourself in your area.
I certainly don't mind comparing the VUE to the CRV here as they are very compatible vehicles (and bot excellent choices). Unfortunately some Honda fanatics always feel the need to put down everything else.
Let's keep the VUE discussion going now.
Saw 2 on the road today in my travels, both V6 models.
Egads, people, just use yer heads! What's the obvious way to confirm an internet "rumour" about a consumer price? Just call the vendor, for heaven's sake! This isn't exactly complex logic...
If you don't believe US that the Sports Pkg exists, just call Saturn. They'll gladly give you all the info. And I believe that, due to the popularity of the existing SP, they're offering it again. I agree with you that Saturn should banner it somewhere, but just because they HAVEN'T doesn't mean the offer isn't happening. And while I like Edmunds and find the information helpful, they're not actually 100% accurate 100% of the time.
Ok, I'm done on this pricing topic - fight it out amongst yourselves. I know that I got a GREAT deal on the VUE... you can all suit yourselves!!
We have been driving our VUE for more than two months now and are very pleased thus far. But I still have a few questions concerning the safety ratings. Maybe these will explain the high insurance costs.
Thought: when I went out today, I played around with the starting to see if I could replicate what you're talking about...
I kind of did -- by accident! My foot ever so slightly lifted off the clutch - -because of the "safety" mechanism (no clutch in, no start), I got the hesitation.
Sounds dumb, I know, but it might be worth experimenting to see if that reproduces your problem... Just a thought!
We picked up our vue today. The FWD 5-speed in silver. I was pleasantly surprised at the acceleration from the I4 engine. It's not as peppy as the 9-3 we turned in, but it's pretty good. Biggest difference is that it's kind of raspy when pushed in 1st and 2nd, compared to the saab 2.0-litre that I would describe as throaty when you stepped on it. The throw on the shifter is kind of long, also compared to the saab, and VERY long compared to my wife's miata. But the clutch feel is excellent. We couldn't test drive the manual tranny before ordering, but we always get sticks, so we took a chance, and I'm happy to say we have no regrets. Also happy to discover canadian vues do not have the annoying upshift light. And the dealer was able to disable the horn honk if you happen to push the remote lock button a second time. Unfortunately, I've found two problems in about two hours of ownership: The sunroof won't vent. It opens and closes fine, but the back edge won't budge when I push the switch forward. Also, the interor lights don't turn off if you open the door after the ignition is off. I do have the switch set to door, but the lights just stay on. My question: why do we pay dealers for pdi if they can't test out simple things like this? We got after-market grey leather and front seat heaters. The leather looks and feels good; the heaters are very nice, going right up the back of the seat to the first crease.
If you're cdn with a gm visa, take note: GM will no longer accept visa points on vue orders taken after march 31. I don't know if this is a temporary situation because of a lack of supply or not. Also, dealer is not expecting the variable-4 transmission until august at the earliest. They expect that could be pushed back. Anything with the vt will be a 2003 now.
I believe this is a feature you will find on all GM vehicles. If you set it to door the interior light will stay on for awhile after you have left the vehicle. Unless I'm just wierd my Aurora does that and I actually like that.....
They don't stay on for a while. They stay on forever. I've since discovered the same thing happens when you get in and start the car. The lights don't turn off. The switch must be wired wrong. When we drove home from the dealer, the switch was in the off position. I like that feature too, when it's working right, especially in cars where the lights fade out, theatre-style.
If that is the case, the VUE is off the shopping list as I have $1200 to spend. I find it hard to believe they would just suspend it all of a sudden just like that.
No surprise on the CVT though. I wish they had just gone with a normal auto until they had the problems with the transmission plant in Hungary worked out. The only plus is they might have to fill more 4 cyl production up with another "sport package" edition.
We chose a vehicle other than the VUE as our mini-SUV (the Santa Fe) and we got a nice note from our local Saturn dealership telling us how sorry they were that we chose another vehicle, asking us to fill out a survey and offering us a free oil change good for 90 days - I do have a funny feeling about taking the Sante Fe there for its first oil change! :-0 ...... maybe the Pontiac... anyway... is this typical behavior from Saturn dealerships? Thanks...
Comments
Saturn has never been about luxury. It has been about reliability, being treated right by the dealer, and price. The Vue seems to win on all three. My wife wants a 4 cyl. and the auto. Not available yet.
But you have to balance that out against the nice dealer service and plastic panels. Also I find the looks distinctive and rugged.
It's your call but you won't find the perfect vehicle unless you move into Highlander/Pilot territory.
The dash and controls look like any other saturn to me, whether that's good or bad.
As for the aztek, only by comparing it to the original design could someone conclude the new design looks good, imo.
That the new look is still warthog-like is demonstrated by the far greater number of envoys and rendevous one sees on the road. People are buying GM products and paying more for them to avoid an aztek.
gm_litogation : The sport-package is real. Unfortunately I could not order one from Canada so I am hoping they will bring the next package up here also. It likely means the difference between me buying one and not.
Just my 2 cents.
As for the interior... what would people have liked? I don't actually LIKE cars with seat fabric used as "wallpaper" - hard to clean and I don't think it looks good. If I can't have high end car leather and luxe, I don't think it makes that much difference.
Lastly, now that the struts have been adjusted, my car is utterly rattle, creak and squeak free. Aside from teh acceleration noise, it's vey quiet. For the record...
I tend to agree with most magazine comparisons that I have read in that the VUE and the CR-V are a very close match up. Each truck has it's flaws and short comings. Don't know where you read the VUE has rattles, but both of the ones I have driven were rock solid.
I like the CR-V a lot, but lets face it, it has problems also. Have you even driven a VUE???
As for the Vue delaerships... so far all dealrships have been extremely nice & helpful and would you believe, honest! My sister inlaw just bought 2 new vehicle at our local Mazda dealership because of the salesperson! (no she is not rich, just sold her home and was in amust need vehicle situation since their FORD took a dump!!!!) Ford is a whole other can of worms though.
What about the Mitsubishi Montero Sport Suv??? Any comparison to the Saturn? I'l have to do some research on it.
:-)
BYE
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markopolo : Will it be the same "sport pacakge" that was offered last month?
It sounds to me that you want to buy a Cadillac Escalade but at the price of a Geo Tracker.
Your best bet may be to go to a used car dealer and find that Suburban or Tahoe that has the room, comfort & gadgets that you are looking for.
I have owned my VUE since 3/9/02 and can say all in all still happy with the vehicle. On highway travel with cruise I am averaging 27.2 mpg. It's the first American vehicle that is close to it's epa rating that I have ever owned. Now for the good news/bad news that everyone needs:
1. The radio is still great, no problems with the CD player (answer to previous post), but I have the AM/FM, Cassette, 6 disc CD Changer.
2. On fit and finish - just noticed that the C pillar (panel?) is out of alignment on the left side of the vehicle and am taking it on on Thursday to have it fixed. Those of you that read all of the postings may recall that my bumper was out of alignment as well, so this makes fit and finish problem number two for those of you at home keeping score.
3. Concern with starting - not easy to explain, but basically there appear to be a dead spot in the starter or problem with something electrical. In my 1200 miles of driving the problem has occurred three times (this morning being the third). The car turns over to start and then seems to stop turning over, even though I still have the key turned and then start again. The problem is best described as a hiccup during the start. The car starts without a hitch, but the sound is interesting during that "hiccup" while the starter is turning over. Again, the problem will be looked at on Thursday, but I would like to know if anyone else experienced the problem.
4. Seats - still a lot more comfortable than the Prizm replaced, but not as comfortable as say a Nissan Xterra (having spent three hours in one this past weekend).
5. Cargo capacity - I have a 30" upright case in the back of the VUE, along with two backpacks, two pillows and two twelve packs of soda. All of the cargo fit under the cargo cover. My suggestion is to take a golf bag (or two if that's how many you normally carry) to the Saturn dealership and try it out for yourself.
6. Steering wheel - cruise control buttons make it difficult to find that long drive comfortable driving position. That is, I found it difficult to use the armrests with the shape of the wheel. Eventually, I lowered the wheel once cruise was set so it would be less tiring.
7. Armrests - the door armrests are a bit hard, even compared to the ones on the seat.
8. Steering - still too quick to change direction for a vehicle that has the disposition to rollover. Again, I have found the over-assisted steering to be common in many new cars (Honda Civic, Ford Escape, etc.) so this may be a personal issue.
Overall, to those of you that are considering the 4 cylinder, I have no complaints on performance. I have been able to merge onto the highway without breaking a sweat or revving the engine above 3500 rpms. Those of you concerned with noise, I don't find it any noisier than any other 4 cylinders I have owned. It is noticeable when pushing hard (as in brisk acceleration), but at highway speeds not an issue. For example at 80 mph, the tach reads 3500 rpms, at 70, 3000. I have found the five speed to be extremely flexible puling the car from 45 to 70 on the highway when traffic allowed at an acceptable rate. Of course, if one has the need to really get moving, a downshift to fourth may be appropriate. The cruise control on the VUE works well.
Overall, I think the VUE was still the best vehicle for me, but I have tried to list the good and bad so that those of you considering the VUE.
Startup: I have occasionally heard something similar on mine, although I've never had to re-turn the key - there's just kind of a milisecond of "dead spot" as you put it. It's yet to be a problem, though - didn't actually think about it until I read your post...
Mileage: Now, here I'm impressed. I've yet to get better than 26 out of it, and generally I can coax high mileage out of my cars.... I'm actually going to have them check all possibilities at its 3000 mile service next week: I got better mileage in my first tank than I have since, and I'm not sure why.... I want to ensure there's no reason for it to be getting poorer mileage. I'd be VERY happy with 27 highway (I'm probably getting about 25). What sort of speed are you cruising at?
ITA about the steering - I wish there was just a little bit more play in the wheel so it wasn't QUITE so responsive at high speed. It's not a problem as such, but I agree that they probably ought to tweak it a little.
Where I DO differ with you is the seats -- despite some initial reservations (because they were VERY different from the seats in my old car), I will now say they are THE MOST COMFORTABLE seats of any car I've had. The only seats I've ever been in that I found better are VW ones (which have a squillion different adjustments, so you get practically custom seats). The VUE seats are GREAT for me, though --I'm not getting butt-weary on long drives, my back doesn't stiffen up, and I don't get that "folded, spindled and mutliated" feeling 2 hours in. I LOVE the seats.
My only current woe is that the ABS light has come on and stayed on, so there's something wrong there - they're going to fix it at the service next week (I gather that the light indicates a problem in the ABS, but that the regular brakes are just fine).
I'm going to trust that these are just teething troubles... I love the car so much that I'm not even finding the "tweaks" it's needed that annoying (normally I'd be spitting venom at having to return to the dealer so soon). Of course, I'm doing SO many miles that I'm in there once a month just for regular MAINTENANCE visits! Sigh.....
By my calculations in the US a 2WD Auto 4 Cyl. Vue equipped similarly (again that options thing) to a CR-V LX 2WD has a retail price of $18355. The CR-V LX has an invoice of $17811. The CR-V LX has things on it that the Vue doesn't, to make it similar you would have to add the $1360 power package to the Vue, that would give the Vue a few extra items but also much more $.
A 4WD Auto 4 cyl Vue would have a retail price of $19950. Again you would have to add the power package ($1360) to bring it closer to the CR-V 4WD LX which has an invoice of $18918.
I already posted the CR-V EX cost. So by my calculation, in the US the Vue is more expensive than the CR-V. Now I realize I listed invoice prices and people don't seem to be able to get that at least now. But even figuring in higher than invoice I think there is not as big a price difference as some who lead you to believe, at least in the US.
Obviously run the numbers yourself.
Fuel Economy, I tend to be a bit aggressive with acceleration so I was pleased with the results. wmacblue, I tend to drive 5 - 9 mph over the posted limit. On the trip to Canada averaged 72 mph in the U.S. and 68 mph (110 kmh) in Canada (was warned they were on high enforcement). I pretty much ignore the shift up light, but will shift into 4th once I get around 40 mph if I have no need to accelerate. Another thing I am going to change is to a K&N air filter after I reach the life of the Saturn filter. I have found these to help on our other vehicles for both performance and economy (1993 Corolla, 1994 Prizm, 1998 Prizm Lsi). Wmacblue I am using 87 gas from one of the "sunshine" gas stations (read Shell).
Seats - I think it is a matter of opinion. They are comfortable, but could use more cushion to them (especially the rear seats). I have found adjusting the height of seat does give some lumbar and thigh support. Since I have owned this vehicle, my knee has stopped bothering me, so there is no doubt that they are better. The problem is you can feel the frame in your back on the seats. --> Eric
Perhaps the problems will be corrected if I wait til July to take delivery. I haven't bought a GM car for many years. So I don't know if they do their tweaks as they arise or wait until the problems mushroom like FORD. Would you buy it again if you were in the market now?
I still think the Aztek looks "abominable" and that would INCLUDE the 2002 model. Guess I AM with the program, just not your program. By the way, Maynard said it best . . . the Aztek looks like a warthog (still laughing)
Secondly, just because you choose to not check more thoroughly into the price of the Sport Vue doesn't mean it doesn't exist. I would say that since there are SEVERAL owners of the Sport vue on this website alone, it DOES exist. If you are still having trouble believing this, try visiting your local Saturn dealer. But I think it is simply wrong to mislead people on the price differences between two vehicles because you haven't done appropriate research.
Folks, we have had these arguments on price difference on this board over and over. Just a piece of advice from a smart consumer, if you want to know the price of two vehicles you are considering. VISIT THE DEALERSHIPS!! The prices are so varied as seen on this board across the country and there are so many dealer discounts and "special" packages that it is impossible to take the word of any "amateurs" on a message board. As you can see in the history of this board, the price quotes are all over. And I can tell you TMV is only helpful if there are no special programs or discounts. Honda has some programs in some places right now and Saturn Vue has a specially priced Sport that is available. When you are spending this kind of money, you want to make the decision yourself based on real-world data. So if you wanna know, go check it out. Don't trust someone else with such an important decision.
JAFO: Vue has "cheap switches and loads of rattles and creaks and hard plastic" I actually went out and looked at my Vue to see where the cheap switches were. I even compared the switches to those in a friend's CRV and another friend's Cougar. The switches were comparable as was the hard plastic dash. I am not sure what switches you are talking about. Could you explain? As far as rattles and creaks, when I first took delivery of my Vue, the steering column shell rattled a little. I took it to the dealership and they fixed it in a couple of minutes and I have not heard any rattles or creaks since. Other than the engine roar (described in earlier post), my Vue has a smooth quiet ride.
Shelly B: Read the reviews on that Montero Sport. It has a terrible safety record. And my dad and I play golf a lot and we fit both of our golf bags in the back of the Vue with no problem without putting the seats down. Perhaps you need a remeasurement.
I do think that comparing the Tahoe to the Vue is an apples and oranges comparison. But I also think that the poster who disagreed didn't need to use the familiar tone of the "honey" and "sweetie" bit. There's plenty of guys who post on here that could be called insulting names for their lack of knowledge. I don't think you need to demean Shelly for speaking her mind. Try not to act like a "redneck" fella.
Carguy: Again you are comparing apples to oranges. Some might say that you would expect to pay more for a 6 cylinder than a 4. Now if you take the straight 4 of the Vue and add the Power package the way you did, you will come out a little more expensive for the Vue. But I think many of us have visited Saturn and SEEN the real-world prices and FREE options of the SPORT model which is comparably equipped to the CRV and VERY MUCH CHEAPER. Check it out for yourself. 16,9K baby. Can't beat it!
I hope y'all have a good day!
Say I'm a naive consumer (which most are despite what goes on here). I go to a website or car magazine to look up the price of the Vue and other SUVs I am interested in. I don't see anything about any sport package so I configue a Vue like I would want and I come up with a higher price than a comparably equipped CR-V. How would I know to go to a Saturn dealer to see what "special" they have today? I didn't think buying a car was like shopping for groceries. Maybe Saturn should throw a flyer in with the Sunday paper advertising this Sport Package.
I compared the Vue as it is listed on a reputable site. That is apples to apples in my book. I always said the V6 Vue will cost more than a 4 cyl. competitor so I don't know where that statement came from.
And as for the statement "16,9 Baby. Can't beat it!", that is your opinion. I can buy a Cavalier for $11K but that won't make it a worthwhile purchase for me. Usually you gets what you pay for. Does the Vue have a locking gas filler door? That always bothered me about GM vehicles.
1. Using invoice isn't fair since you can't get an 02 CR-V for less than list right now anywhere around these parts. The Honda salesman almost couldn't believe I asked.
2. Saturn prices include destination (and $100 a/c tax up here). Honda prices do not.
You can't buy a 2WD CR-V up here (unfortunately), but an AWD CRV is about C$1500 more than a similar VUE with the CVT up here.
FYI, right now one US$ = $1.57 Canadian. US$ has appreciated against every currency in the world over the past 6 months. It's brutal right now.
Another observation, the CR-V is shipped from Japan and Honda charges $440 destination. The Vue comes from somewhere in NA and they charge $510 (rather low as GM goes, Chevrolet charges $600 for the TrailBlazer). Some will say it is balanced by the price of the vehicle, to a point I suppose it is.
And who says you can't get a CR-V below MSRP? I did, so did many others. My salesman said the same thing at first too, then I negotiated. But looking at why people are paying MSRP or close, tells me something, what about you?
As for delivery charges, it's all averaged out. There is zero relation to the charge and where it comes from.
The price of the sport package should be published knowledge. At least put a crap banner on the Saturn website. If I were a consumer going to different websites to research different vehicles I was considering for purchase, I would know nothing of the mythical "Sport Package". As I have stated in previous post I have no doubt that it exist, it is just very hard to get solid evidence of it.
To put this matter to rest I will visit a Saturn dealership today, I will ask about the sport package. My somewhat unbiased opinion should settle this once and for all. If there is such a "sport package" I will get complete details of it and post them in this forum.
Onelucky I'm glad you think the VUE looks great, I only hope that others will like the looks of it too. Last year when GM introduced the Aztek it was immediately badged as "ugly" and slammed throughout the automotive media. Since that point the Aztek hasn't been able to shake that stigma. The Aztek is actually a pretty good vehicle despite the media slamming it's looks. All I ever stated was that the educated GM loyalite will have a hard time picking between the 2. Also I have read through some of the reviews of the Aztek, like the one here on Edmunds, they are no longer objective after their initial comments on looks.
Sorry Edmunds, that's just piss poor journalism...
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
The VUE stands up quite nicely compared to the CR-V. In fact I was reading Popular Science and they picked it over the CR-V and RAV4 as the best small SUV.
I wish that Saturn would have advertised this package, but my understanding is that this was just to keep interest peeked in the VUE because of the delayed CVT introduction. Saturn probably figured that the average Joe wouldn't know that the CVT was delayed and then when he/she came in to check out the VUE with 4 cyl., the dealership could stop them from leaving by offering this great "sport package" deal.
They probably didn't want to advertise too much about the special because they didn't want speculation that there was anything wrong with the car. Read - why is Saturn offering such a low price on a model that should be in high demamd?...
Just my thoughts. I keep debating whether or not getting the VUE with the sport package is worth the first year bugs. But I need a SUV now and I like the VUE and its price with the package.
-LL
Good post!
In any event, this is the Saturn VUE forum, not the CRV VUE comparo forum. If you and your CRV compadres like your choice of vehicle, fine. The fact you feel compelled to come here and bother people who prefer the VUE suggest an underlying lack of confidence. As if perhaps deep down you feel you made the wrong choice and the only way to make it right is to attack others. I am sure that there are many on-line self-esteem support groups. Why don't you all go there and live the VUE owners in piece to discuss their issues about their choice of vehicle?
Check the price at your dealers but as I and others have said and still hold, the prices are different across the country! Get it . . . DIFFERENT across the country!
Just because you give a price from your dealer in Somewhere USA, doesn't mean it applies to others.
You talked about groceries . . .try comparing the price of a grocery item in Myrtle Beach South Carolina to a grocery item in Winston Salem North Carolina from the same Food Lion store. It ain't the same, fella. . . It's called SUPPLY . . AND . . DEMAND!!
It works the same with car business. And I can personally tell you from my "unbiased experience" in having JUST thoroughly researched and bought a new SUV in Somewhere Virginia that you will NOT find a CRV comparably equipped that can BEAT the price of the Sport VUE here. But I am smart enough to know that it may be different for you in Somewhere USA. All I suggested is that folks should check that out for THEMSELVES . . . You can be as unbiased as possible but unless you are coming to everybody's town for price info., you will only help those in YOUR town and I am sure they will be appreciative.
To the people who just want an answer on the prices . . .Ya wanna know the price of a Vue or CRV or any other car, check for yourself. Don't buy into someone else's opinion or impression of what's going on in their world. It's YOUR money!
Be smart and do the research yourself in your area.
Let's keep the VUE discussion going now.
Saw 2 on the road today in my travels, both V6 models.
Egads, people, just use yer heads! What's the obvious way to confirm an internet "rumour" about a consumer price? Just call the vendor, for heaven's sake! This isn't exactly complex logic...
If you don't believe US that the Sports Pkg exists, just call Saturn. They'll gladly give you all the info. And I believe that, due to the popularity of the existing SP, they're offering it again.
I agree with you that Saturn should banner it somewhere, but just because they HAVEN'T doesn't mean the offer isn't happening.
And while I like Edmunds and find the information helpful, they're not actually 100% accurate 100% of the time.
Ok, I'm done on this pricing topic - fight it out amongst yourselves. I know that I got a GREAT deal on the VUE... you can all suit yourselves!!
"http://www.highwaysafety.org"
We have been driving our VUE for more than two months now and are very pleased thus far. But I still have a few questions concerning the safety ratings. Maybe these will explain the high insurance costs.
I kind of did -- by accident! My foot ever so slightly lifted off the clutch - -because of the "safety" mechanism (no clutch in, no start), I got the hesitation.
Sounds dumb, I know, but it might be worth experimenting to see if that reproduces your problem... Just a thought!
I'm going to visit my Local Saturn dealer today, and get all the skinny and post it in this forum....
I was pleasantly surprised at the acceleration from the I4 engine. It's not as peppy as the 9-3 we turned in, but it's pretty good. Biggest difference is that it's kind of raspy when pushed in 1st and 2nd, compared to the saab 2.0-litre that I would describe as throaty when you stepped on it.
The throw on the shifter is kind of long, also compared to the saab, and VERY long compared to my wife's miata. But the clutch feel is excellent. We couldn't test drive the manual tranny before ordering, but we always get sticks, so we took a chance, and I'm happy to say we have no regrets.
Also happy to discover canadian vues do not have the annoying upshift light. And the dealer was able to disable the horn honk if you happen to push the remote lock button a second time.
Unfortunately, I've found two problems in about two hours of ownership:
The sunroof won't vent. It opens and closes fine, but the back edge won't budge when I push the switch forward.
Also, the interor lights don't turn off if you open the door after the ignition is off. I do have the switch set to door, but the lights just stay on.
My question: why do we pay dealers for pdi if they can't test out simple things like this?
We got after-market grey leather and front seat heaters. The leather looks and feels good; the heaters are very nice, going right up the back of the seat to the first crease.
If you're cdn with a gm visa, take note: GM will no longer accept visa points on vue orders taken after march 31. I don't know if this is a temporary situation because of a lack of supply or not.
Also, dealer is not expecting the variable-4 transmission until august at the earliest. They expect that could be pushed back. Anything with the vt will be a 2003 now.
More reports to follow.
I like that feature too, when it's working right, especially in cars where the lights fade out, theatre-style.
No GM points after March 31?? Who told you that?
If that is the case, the VUE is off the shopping list as I have $1200 to spend. I find it hard to believe they would just suspend it all of a sudden just like that.
No surprise on the CVT though. I wish they had just gone with a normal auto until they had the problems with the transmission plant in Hungary worked out. The only plus is they might have to fill more 4 cyl production up with another "sport package" edition.
maybe the Pontiac... anyway... is this typical behavior from Saturn dealerships? Thanks...