Ever since my rant about the colors, I have been seeing more and more VUEs here in the Metro DC area, specifically my home Arlington. So, im kinda getting over the color issue now. Strange I saw a V6 VUE in Silver on Thurs coming home with most of the exterior options I want. That really made me reconsider. It looked great.
Hey guess what, I own a Tracker as well. lol Imagine that. I have a 2 door convertible with 95 little ponies. Really love the little tyke but I need something thats built to keep me safe in a accident.
Well I'm back and forth between the Vibe and VUE but I'm most likely gonna get the VUE despite my displeasure for the new colors, especially that aweful green. lol Best wishes to you all :-)
Why would anyone consider the Vibe over the VUE or the Aztek. I'm sorry but I don't see how an underpowered, overpriced, Corolla Wagon can conceivably compete with either of these very capable SUV's.
The rod on the back cover is popping out. It lasted three months. Please do not waste your money on this option. It also has small holes in it and you can see the stuff in the back anyway. Hopefully the dealer will replace my defective cover.
I had my VUE in for service last week and had them look at the transmission because of the rumbling. They had two other 5 speeds on the lot and one in for service at the same time - because all of them make that noise, they say it is considered to be normal. Does that make sense ???
Also found it odd that they recommended service at 5000 Km. when the maintenance schedule says 12 500. Although the change oil light hadn't come on yet, I let them do the service and paid the $35. Funny thing is ... I haven't changed driving habits and I got nearly 100 km more out of this tank of gas than I usually do. Very strange !?!?!?!
The Vibe offers me everything the VUE does and a little bit more. Practically every option available in the VUE is included in the Vibe.
If I got a the AWD V6 VUE and all the options I want it will cost me just under 26k. And if I get a Vibe GT with all the options I want it will only cost me just a bit over 22k.
And my major sticking point is that Saturn does not offer the V6 VUE with a standard transmission.
Also the Vibe being a smaller vehicle makes it just a tad bit easier to park in DC's crowded streets.
Don't get me wrong now. I love the VUE. And I will most likely still get it, but I think a single person like myself would do just as good in a Vibe.
We looked at the Vibe (and the Matrix) also, but my wife didn't want a wagon and I thought the motor was a bit buzzy in the Vibe. I prefer a V6 after many years of 4 cyl motors in our Civic and Accord.
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As an aside we had lots of fun camping this weekend. Not too hot, so that helped. A couple of people commented on our Vue so that was great. Vue really is a great package and it will serve us well when the little ones come in a year or two.
The Vibe just doesn't seem to compete with either the Aztek or the VUE when you take value into the equasion, especially if you are considering AWD versions. Even the 4 cyllinder AWD version of the VUE has more power than the Vibe. It especially has more torque which to me is way more important in an SUV like vehicle.
I recently went to a Pontiac dealership and was walking around looking at cars. I looked at the sticker price and options of both an Aztek and a Vibe. If people are actually looking at a Vibe how can they even consider it over an Aztek? They even look similar, yet the Aztek is cheaper, more functional, feature laden, larger, and just plain better.
It's hard to get a Vibe without all that gray cladding on the side. To me a Vibe looks similar to a sporty wagon, where as the Aztek looks more like an SUV. I just don't like that cladding and that I'm a sport wagon, but not really look of the Vibe. 360 of an Aztek below.
I have a 2002 V6 AWD Vue, manufacture date 5/08/02, purchase date June 20. I've had it in for service twice so far, both times for a "popping" noise coming from the engine compartment. The service dept. had a similar condition, attributable to incorrect transmission mounts installed at Saturn (and covered under a tech. service bulletin). They replaced mine, the problem persisted. The front wheel hub torque settings were found out of spec (loose), but this didn't solve the problem. They pulled the rear driveshaft (apparently they had a problem with insufficient grease at the spline joint connection), but that wasn't it. They've narrowed it down to a vacuum canister in the intake manifold. Has anyone had a similar service call? I'm concerned with ripping the intake apart to get at this canister on a brand new engine.
I've now picked up an unusual sound when cornering with the wheel turned to its stops. Kind of a creeky noise.
Oh yeah, one more thing. The truck has a high pitched whine on acceleration, definitely an engine noise, possibly from the drive belts. Is this normal?
I'm within 100 miles of the 1500 mile turn back. I hate to do it, since I enjoy the car. I'm worried this is just the beginning...
I also had my 3 week old VUE in the shop twice for this problem. After some adjustments, Saturn then told the service tech. that the VUE was engineered to do that. My question is why would they engineer a vehicle to do that. I was told that I didn't have the RMS's high enough. I'm in reverse, and I don't usually gun it to back up. This is not my first 5 speed, I know that I'm not a mechanic but I do know when something isn't right. I am to not happy at this moment to say the least, and am thinking about turning it back in. I am waiting for the Saturn Rep. to make it down, then I will make a decision based on what he tell's me. So far I have to say my first experience hasn't been all that good.
I hear ya on believing there is an issue and this should not be 'normal'. I do admit that it occurs more when reversing at low speeds as I noticed it the most when I was out garage sale'ing with my mother. I tend to be a little more calm driver when she is in the car so she doesn't think I am a maniac. But yes, generally when you are reversing, you don't gun it so I can't imagine why they would engineer it that way. I am way beyond the point of no return so I would just like it fixed cause I feel something is definately wrong. I've been driving standard for 16 years now so I know it is not me.
Does anyone have a repetetive ting/ping sound after turning off their VUE ? It is coming from under the vehicle and almost sounds like metal expanding or contracting. It continues for quite a while after running - like until it cools off. Is this normal? Anyone else hear this?
I would ask for a new one maybe if they can't fix yours. We have a AWD V6 also and it has been perfect for over 2 months now. Let us know what happens.
tekwarrior : I'm sorry, but the Vibe does not look like the Aztek. Vibe is a pretty nice looking car, the Aztek is a pretty odd looking vehicle. The back of the Aztek is the worst part I think, just ugly. I'm sure it's functional, but I couldn't ever see myself in one.
Tekwarrior - The Vibe is not meant to compete with the VUE or Aztek. Where do you get the idea that they do?
VUE = Mini SUV Aztek = Mini Van Vibe = Sport Wagon
Logic would make it easy to understand why the much bigger VUE has more power the the smaller Vibe. The fact that the VUE has more torque is a non-issue because if I choose the Vibe I don't plan to be towing anything that would possibly hold me back.
Yes the Vibe and Aztek do look similar but unlike most people I like both vehicles but I don't care of the back of the Aztek.
Now understand this; the Aztek is a Mini Van it does not perform like the Vibe. As a matter of fact, all of these vehicles perform differently according to their class.
But I'm comparing the VUE and Vibe simply because those are the only choices that I love. I was never comparing the two on the contention that the are in the same class. If thats what you assumed, then you assumed incorrectly.
The popping and and the clunking on turns are symptoms of CV joint troubles. Have them inspected for meeting specs and smooth operation. I doubt you'd get that from the cannister, which I can't remember exactly but I don't think has moving parts besides a check valve or something like that. The cannister is usually a separate item, not part of the intake manifold, but it might be below it.
Good luck on your decision and fixes. I've heard of someone else here who needed CV's right out of the dealer's lot like you.
I didn't compare the Vibe directly with VUE or the Aztek, I stated that I don't see how anyone could possibly get the Vibe over either of these choices. People are different though and I respect that. What I'm referring to is someone who actually goes to a Pontiac dealership and picks a Vibe over an Aztek. It's just something I can't fathom, but people have different wants, needs, and desires.
As far as low end torque is used, I could careless about torque and towing either. I just think it's alot easier to drive around town with an AWD VUE or Aztek than it would be with AWD Vibe. To me 123 horsepower and 118lbs of torque is not nearly enough to move around 3000lbs car and AWD. Especially considering you have to get an automatic with that configuration. Another thing, I sat in a 2003 Corolla and it's not anywhere near as comfortable as an Aztek or VUE.
Vast majority of Vibes are base model which are about $3-4K less than a base Aztek. Aztek is bigger, burns more gas and costs more to insure. Vibe also looks a lot better than Aztek. I think those are enough reasons to choose the Vibe
Right now I don't think even a base model Vibe is cheaper than a Base model Aztek. Remember that $3,000 rebate? Even with the Mileage difference the power of the V6 more than makes up for the 20% disadvantage in fuel economy. As far as styling is concerned, sorry I can't get past that cladding on the Vibe! Maybe we should just quit talking about the Vibe and the Aztek though, this topic is about the VUE.
Up here, a base Vibe list for C$19125. With rebate an base Aztek starts at C$24,995. Vibe has much better looking and cleaner cladding than Aztek. I would take a VUE over either, but Vibe is still better looking than Aztek.
Not sure if Canadian prices apply, the original poster was American. I still don't think gray cladding looks better than painted cladding. You won't convince me here, why don't you compare the 360's available a few posts up.
Give up, the Aztek is not good looking in most people's eyes. This is why it's stacked with rebates and still not selling well. While I think it's a generally good vehicle, it's still substantially more than a base Vibe, even in US$.
If you do you'll find that a base FWD Vibe without aluminum wheels, with no automatic trans, no power options, 4 speaker stereo not 6, and no floor mats will cost you around $18,000 or more. Usually I wouldn't even compare a stripped down model with such limited features to the Aztek, but I at least added ABS and Side airbags to make the Vibe at least as safe as an Aztek. So what does a base model Aztek come to using TMV after rebates? $16,500! I think it is you that is wrong about the Vibe being cheaper than the Aztek.
Clearly the Vibe is much more in the US than up here. Base price of a Vibe here is C$19150. Base price of a Aztek is about C$27485 . Cash back here is C$2500 which means it still costs over $5800 more. Even adding ABS and power will not bring it close.
I have no idea what the incentives are down there. ANYWAY.. enjoy you Aztek. It's a bargoon!
Hi Dindak.......haven't been following this forum much lately. What's the story on the VTi/CVT? Is it available yet or are they still having problems with it? If it isn't, it's too bad they can't offer the 4 cyl with a conventional automatic 'til they work out the bugs.
The CVT is available as far as I know for the 03 model year. You can order one now or your dealer may even have one on the way. The guy I speak with every so often at the local dealership told me this about a month or two ago.
Well, I picked up my 2003 V6-AWD Vue (automatic) this morning. All of the accessories I ordered were on with the exception of the wheel locks, for some strange reason they forgot to order it. No sweat, I will get it done whenever it comes in.
Did not do a lot of driving, just the short 15 mile run to get to my house. With such short time driven my first impressions are good. I think I have to get used to the gear changes and acceleration. This is my first Saturn and my last new car was a '98 Grand Prix GT. They are certainly 2 different animals.
All in all I love the vehicle and will continue to post any good or bad observations. My Saturn retailer experience was pleasant and friendly and I was introduced to just about everybody in the place. A nice touch.
I felt I owed myself a little treat so I bought a model vue for $45.00 Canadian, and they threw in a nice golf hat.
Build date on the door sticker says June 2nd. I thought 2003's were not built until after June 10th. Any comments on that folks?.
(davidj8) -Congrats on your V6 VUE. How great. -and her name is ...." " ? -I've ordered the BRIGHT BLUE which is only scheduled for early August production so I have to be patient. -Looking forward to hearing your feedback/impressions. PS:- What color did you get ?
The 2003 Yellow Vues have arrived at the Canadian Shipping yards. Apparently the colour is part of a special package that includes roof racks, running boards, and the front bar. All dealer installed. The base price was 25000 and change. Almost 29000 with freight. Or a thousand bucks less than 2002 Rendezvous are selling for on the lots including freight.
(enniskillen) -Okay. I think you need to exorcise this Buick demon of yours ! Go and buy the d_ _ _ Rende-VUE and pretend you have the REAL VUE ! -You need to buy it or let this VUE / Rende-VUE go. I think most folks here are quite enthusiastic about the VUE and no 'bottom line' price comparison is going to make the slightest difference. -The VUE is different. The Rende-VUE tries to be, but is typical "flash-in-the-pan" GM styling. For all the new vehicles hitting the road today with odd, cut and slashed angles, head lights stretched back like back 'eye jobs' and gimmicky dashboard & dials, it's refreshing to see how "right-on" Saturn got the VUE. -There are no converts here. Sorry. PS:- No one is going to remember the Rende-VUE in a few years. Any one remember the "tested for 100,000 mile" Achiva ??? -No offense meant ... and I am not about to get into a Rende-VUE / VUE duel either. I know you like a good scrap !
I was at my dealer the other day, to get more lug nut covers, and I saw the new 2003 yellow VUE. Wow was it bright, almost canary yellow. I kinda like it, stands out and makes a statement. Can't wait to see the other new colors. I still would not give up my black/silver though. I have approx 2600 miles on my V6 and she is still doing well. I have only had a couple of the minor problems mentioned here and my dealer has fixed them right away. My build date was the end of April.
I just followed that link to the Saturn website. I found it really interesting that the L series wagon has quite a bit more cargo room than the larger VUE. Not saying that's necessarily bad or anything, but I do find it a little strange.
I guess that's a non-issue though, the VUE is outselling the L-wagon something like 7 to 1.
The numbers: LW 79 cubic feet VUE 63.8 cubic feet.
I like it. I have always thought the yellow Escapes were nice and this yellow seems a little brighter.
Drove by the local Saturn dealer and there is a Subaru dealer moving in next door where the Saab offices were. Wonder if GM is trying to pair the Saturn Saab Isuzu dealers with the Subaru dealers now?
I am curious about the noise problems with the Vue. I am very interested in the Suzuki Aerio SX.This vehicle doesn't compete with the view.Some new Aerio owners are experienceing a clicking or poping noise when turning sharply. There is no resolution yet. I checked with 2001 Huandi Elantra tech service issues on the NHTSB web site. They had a Hundyai issued bulitten on a clicking noise when turning.Just funny that three out of three vehicles I am considering have or have had in the recent past issues with clicking noise while turning. I am interested in the vue because of the styling, the fact that you can get it without the power options is a plus.I am glad to hear the 4 cyl makes decent power. I normaly like smaller cars.The Suzuki Sx only comes with power options windows doors ect. I would much rather reach and unlock my door than to not be able to open it due to some electric gremlin.Read a review about BMW X5 where poweer motor in each door failed at seperate times during long term test.The drag on the Vue is you can't do certain options without the power package.At this time, the Vue is probably the only small SUV I would consider.The cheap base config, avail side air bag and ABS sounds good.The only down side for me is it weighs 400lbs more than the suzuki and sits up higher.To mitigate the Vue suspension is a better design.It is impressive that Saturn gives someone who doesn't like SUVs something to think about.
I noticed that Saturn is selling two kinds of seat covers for the Vue. They have slip on and Fitted. Has anyone bought or seen these seat covers.They were listed on their web site under accessories.
Comments
Here's the press release link
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Ever since my rant about the colors, I have been seeing more and more VUEs here in the Metro DC area, specifically my home Arlington. So, im kinda getting over the color issue now. Strange I saw a V6 VUE in Silver on Thurs coming home with most of the exterior options I want. That really made me reconsider. It looked great.
Hey guess what, I own a Tracker as well. lol Imagine that. I have a 2 door convertible with 95 little ponies. Really love the little tyke but I need something thats built to keep me safe in a accident.
Well I'm back and forth between the Vibe and VUE but I'm most likely gonna get the VUE despite my displeasure for the new colors, especially that aweful green. lol Best wishes to you all :-)
Also found it odd that they recommended service at 5000 Km. when the maintenance schedule says 12 500. Although the change oil light hadn't come on yet, I let them do the service and paid the $35. Funny thing is ... I haven't changed driving habits and I got nearly 100 km more out of this tank of gas than I usually do. Very strange !?!?!?!
The Vibe offers me everything the VUE does and a little bit more. Practically every option available in the VUE is included in the Vibe.
If I got a the AWD V6 VUE and all the options I want it will cost me just under 26k. And if I get a Vibe GT with all the options I want it will only cost me just a bit over 22k.
And my major sticking point is that Saturn does not offer the V6 VUE with a standard transmission.
Also the Vibe being a smaller vehicle makes it just a tad bit easier to park in DC's crowded streets.
Don't get me wrong now. I love the VUE. And I will most likely still get it, but I think a single person like myself would do just as good in a Vibe.
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As an aside we had lots of fun camping this weekend. Not too hot, so that helped. A couple of people commented on our Vue so that was great. Vue really is a great package and it will serve us well when the little ones come in a year or two.
I recently went to a Pontiac dealership and was walking around looking at cars. I looked at the sticker price and options of both an Aztek and a Vibe. If people are actually looking at a Vibe how can they even consider it over an Aztek? They even look similar, yet the Aztek is cheaper, more functional, feature laden, larger, and just plain better.
steve_ Jul 13, 2002 12:41am
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
http://www.pontiac.com/pontiacjsp/vibe/gallery_exterior.jsp
It's hard to get a Vibe without all that gray cladding on the side. To me a Vibe looks similar to a sporty wagon, where as the Aztek looks more like an SUV. I just don't like that cladding and that I'm a sport wagon, but not really look of the Vibe. 360 of an Aztek below.
http://www.pontiac.com/pontiacjsp/aztek/gallery_exterior.jsp
I've now picked up an unusual sound when cornering with the wheel turned to its stops. Kind of a creeky noise.
Oh yeah, one more thing. The truck has a high pitched whine on acceleration, definitely an engine noise, possibly from the drive belts. Is this normal?
I'm within 100 miles of the 1500 mile turn back. I hate to do it, since I enjoy the car. I'm worried this is just the beginning...
Thanks.
I'm in reverse, and I don't usually gun it to back up. This is not my first 5 speed, I know that I'm not a mechanic but I do know when something isn't right. I am to not happy at this moment to say the least, and am thinking about turning it back in.
I am waiting for the Saturn Rep. to make it down, then I will make a decision based on what he tell's me. So far I have to say my first experience hasn't been all that good.
Does anyone have a repetetive ting/ping sound after turning off their VUE ? It is coming from under the vehicle and almost sounds like metal expanding or contracting. It continues for quite a while after running - like until it cools off.
Is this normal? Anyone else hear this?
tekwarrior : I'm sorry, but the Vibe does not look like the Aztek. Vibe is a pretty nice looking car, the Aztek is a pretty odd looking vehicle. The back of the Aztek is the worst part I think, just ugly. I'm sure it's functional, but I couldn't ever see myself in one.
Can you tell me the date your VUE was built.
I will check on mine when I pick it up.
I am happy that your VUE is problem free, I am certainly hoping the same fate awaits me.
VUE = Mini SUV
Aztek = Mini Van
Vibe = Sport Wagon
Logic would make it easy to understand why the much bigger VUE has more power the the smaller Vibe. The fact that the VUE has more torque is a non-issue because if I choose the Vibe I don't plan to be towing anything that would possibly hold me back.
Yes the Vibe and Aztek do look similar but unlike most people I like both vehicles but I don't care of the back of the Aztek.
Now understand this; the Aztek is a Mini Van it does not perform like the Vibe. As a matter of fact, all of these vehicles perform differently according to their class.
But I'm comparing the VUE and Vibe simply because those are the only choices that I love. I was never comparing the two on the contention that the are in the same class. If thats what you assumed, then you assumed incorrectly.
Good luck on your decision and fixes.
I've heard of someone else here who needed CV's right out of the dealer's lot like you.
As far as low end torque is used, I could careless about torque and towing either. I just think it's alot easier to drive around town with an AWD VUE or Aztek than it would be with AWD Vibe. To me 123 horsepower and 118lbs of torque is not nearly enough to move around 3000lbs car and AWD. Especially considering you have to get an automatic with that configuration. Another thing, I sat in a 2003 Corolla and it's not anywhere near as comfortable as an Aztek or VUE.
Let's get back to the VUE.
If you do you'll find that a base FWD Vibe without aluminum wheels, with no automatic trans, no power options, 4 speaker stereo not 6, and no floor mats will cost you around $18,000 or more. Usually I wouldn't even compare a stripped down model with such limited features to the Aztek, but I at least added ABS and Side airbags to make the Vibe at least as safe as an Aztek. So what does a base model Aztek come to using TMV after rebates? $16,500! I think it is you that is wrong about the Vibe being cheaper than the Aztek.
Look Ma, No Cladding!
I respect your point tekwarrior however as you can see, the Vibe GT does offer the choice of the cladding or monotone apperance package.
Now, back to the VUE, which is what I will probabely buy anyway.
Hey Tekwarrior, thanks for keeping the discussion lively. :-)
I have no idea what the incentives are down there. ANYWAY.. enjoy you Aztek. It's a bargoon!
BACK TO THE VUE !
tekwarrior :: Aztek is still not what most would consider a good looking vehicle.
npgmbr :: What kind of Vue are you looking at buying?
Did not do a lot of driving, just the short 15 mile run to get to my house. With such short time driven my first impressions are good. I think I have to get used to the gear changes and acceleration. This is my first Saturn and my last new car was a '98 Grand Prix GT. They are certainly 2 different animals.
All in all I love the vehicle and will continue to post any good or bad observations. My Saturn retailer experience was pleasant and friendly and I was introduced to just about everybody in the place. A nice touch.
I felt I owed myself a little treat so I bought a model vue for $45.00 Canadian, and they threw in a nice golf hat.
Build date on the door sticker says June 2nd. I thought 2003's were not built until after June 10th. Any comments on that folks?.
We love our AWD V6. Any obvious changes for 2003? The Saturn sales experience really pushed us to the Vue as we were torn between the CRV and the Vue.
-Congrats on your V6 VUE. How great.
-and her name is ...." " ?
-I've ordered the BRIGHT BLUE which is only scheduled for early August production so I have to be patient.
-Looking forward to hearing your feedback/impressions.
PS:- What color did you get ?
Apparently the colour is part of a special package that includes roof racks, running boards, and the front bar. All dealer installed.
The base price was 25000 and change. Almost 29000 with freight. Or a thousand bucks less than 2002 Rendezvous are selling for on the lots including freight.
Keep smiling
Jeff
-Okay. I think you need to exorcise this Buick demon of yours ! Go and buy the d_ _ _ Rende-VUE and pretend you have the REAL VUE !
-You need to buy it or let this VUE / Rende-VUE go. I think most folks here are quite enthusiastic about the VUE and no 'bottom line' price comparison is going to make the slightest difference.
-The VUE is different. The Rende-VUE tries to be, but is typical "flash-in-the-pan" GM styling. For all the new vehicles hitting the road today with odd, cut and slashed angles, head lights stretched back like back 'eye jobs' and gimmicky dashboard & dials, it's refreshing to see how "right-on" Saturn got the VUE.
-There are no converts here. Sorry.
PS:- No one is going to remember the Rende-VUE in a few years. Any one remember the "tested for 100,000 mile" Achiva ???
-No offense meant ... and I am not about to get into a Rende-VUE / VUE duel either. I know you like a good scrap !
http://www.saturnbp.com/active_expression/
I guess that's a non-issue though, the VUE is outselling the L-wagon something like 7 to 1.
The numbers: LW 79 cubic feet VUE 63.8 cubic feet.
Drove by the local Saturn dealer and there is a Subaru dealer moving in next door where the Saab offices were. Wonder if GM is trying to pair the Saturn Saab Isuzu dealers with the Subaru dealers now?
Still working on a name, will come up with something soon.
Hope you get your Blue baby soon.
Will let the folks know how things go, so far so good.
Let us know how it goes.