What's New for the 2004 Saturn Vue?
For 2004, a host of changes are in store for the Saturn Vue. Chief amongst them is a new Honda-sourced, 3.5-liter, 250-horsepower V6 engine, providing 69 more ponies than its predecessor and makng the Vue V6 the strongest player in the mini-SUV segment. For the exterior, the Saturn Vue receives standard tinting for the rear windows and 17-inch aluminum wheels on the all-wheel drive V6 models. The interior gets a dab of style with chrome trim around the gauges, while noise and harshness levels are improved through additional sound-deadening materials. Newly optional for 2004 are a DVD entertainment system, stereo systems with MP3 format capability and XM satellite radio. A new Red Line trim package attracts the young and hip, including the new V6 engine, a sport-tuned suspension with lowered ride height, 18-inch wheels, monochromatic color scheme, a revised front fascia and rocker panel extensions.

Advantages of the 2004 Saturn Vue:

• Robust V6 engine, from Honda
• Impressive crash test scores
• Dent- and rust-resistant exterior body panels
• Great outward visibility
• Roomy cargo area

Objections to the 2004 Saturn Vue:

• Unrefined interior materials
• Driving dynamics lacking compared to other car-based SUVs

Editor's Advice:
Widely considered to be the most likely vehicle in Saturn’s admittedly limited lineup to succeed, the Vue presents a compelling case for those who need the cargo-carrying capacity and heightened driving position of a family-sized SUV without the bulk, mass and unrefined ride of many larger sport utes. While the cheap interior plastics and wide exterior panel gaps may give some demanding buyers pause (they’re wide to let the plastic expand in hot weather), the Saturn Vue’s lively Honda-sourced V6 powertrain appeals to those seeking strong acceleration and engine reliability. Although all-wheel drive is available as an option, we don’t recommend taking the Vue off the beaten path. For pavement driving, the suspension could use tightening and the steering needs better road feel. Is the Saturn Vue the best of the lot? Not by a long shot. But it’s one of the better models in the General Motors stable today.