The 2008 Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid is a smart choice for SUV buyers seeking an eco-friendly compact crossover.
With a base price of just $24,170, the Vue Green Line is one hybrid that doesn't have a hefty premium added to its pricetag.
And as expected, being a hybrid means that the Vue Green Line delivers better fuel economy than its non-hybrid counterpart. The Vue Green Line is rated at 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. That's 6 mpg better than the four-cylinder powered non-hybrid Vue XE.
The 19.2-gallon fuel tank, found in all FWD Vue models, provides the Vue Green Line with a highway driving range of more than 600 miles. With an overall average of 6 mpg better than the non-hybrid Vue XE, the Green Line will travel more than 100 miles further on a single tank of gas.
The four-cylinder powered Saturn Vue XE and Green Line both share the same 170-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine is technologically advanced and features variable valve timing. In the Green Line, the gas engine works a bit less hard thanks to a 36-volt nickel metal hydride battery and electric motor/generator assembly.
The hybrid system in the Vue Green Line is known as a "mild" system because it doesn't pack as much electrical energy as some of its hybrid competitors do.
Also, the hybrid system in the Vue Green Line does not provide for electric-only operation at low speeds. Instead, the Vue Green Line's hybrid system allows for engine shut down at stops and a small amount of boost during acceleration.
The transition from engine stop to start is very smooth and hardly noticeable. Acceleration is okay, but nothing to brag about. There's enough power to take off from a traffic light or stop, but there isn't enough oomph for high-speed passing.
The Vue Green Line's four-cylinder engine is mated to a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic transmission, which directs the power to the front wheels. The Vue Green Line isn't available in all-wheel drive (AWD).
Around town, I found the Vue Green Line to be very likable. The column-assisted electric assist power steering system makes it easy to turn the steering wheel when parking. However, on the highway, I felt that there was too much assist, making the steering feel touchy.
Overall, the ride is comfortable and feels more like a European sedan than a crossover SUV. The cabin provides accommodations for five.
The Saturn Vue has been redesigned and the interior now features a nicer look and better materials. The Vue Green Line includes a long list of safety features like head curtain side airbags, side thorax airbags, active front head restraints, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, and traction and stability control.
The Saturn Vue Green Line also includes a fine list of standard amenities, too. The Vue Green Line provides a nice alternative for those looking to spend less at the pump.
For those that want a more powerful hybrid with plenty of towing capacity, later this year Saturn will offer the all-new 2009 Saturn Vue Green Line 2 Mode. This model will also feature electric-only operation at low speeds.
2008 Saturn Vue Green Line
Engine: 2.4-liter (170 hp) I-4
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Drive type: FWD
MPG (city/hwy): 25/32
Base price: $24,170
As tested: $24,795 (includes $625 for destination)
Web site: www.saturn.com