2008 Saturn Vue

Started in the 1980s as “a new kind of car company,” General Motors’ Saturn division took a fresh approach to manufacturing and selling automobiles. Initially, the brand launched with “no haggle” dealership pricing and a small lineup of vehicles distinguished by dent-resistant plastic door panels. Over time, the cars and SUVs became more conventional, sharing parts and basic designs with other GM models. The last Saturn vehicles, the Aura sedan and Astra hatchback, were based on designs from the European brand Opel, which was then a part of GM. Ultimately, Saturn was shuttered during GM’s bankruptcy in 2010, along with Hummer, Pontiac, and Saab. Saturn vehicles still on the road today are over a decade old and lag behind other used options when it comes to safety and convenience features.

The 2008 redesign included a better interior and a more supple ride. Higher quality materials improve the interior ambiance, but the front seats are somewhat uncomfortable. Standard ESC mitigated the tip up problem, but braking distances are inordinately long. The V6, paired with a six-speed automatic, is a good powertrain, but returns only17 mpg. Model year 2009 was the last for the Vue.