2005 Saturn Vue | Review | Buying Guide
Saturn’s compact sport utility vehicle received a number of upgrades last year, and the gifts keep on coming as 2005 dawns. Among the enhancements to the line is the first full year of production for the Vue Red Line. It is a dominating, performance-driven model with a style all its own (covered in a separate review).
With a new detail and with more impressive powertrain features and accessories, 2005 is sure to be a good year for the Vue. This year, an available OnStar system features next-generation hardware with upgraded hands-free capability. In addition, Vue models, in particular the V6 versions, also benefit from several upscale exterior and interior touches.
Under the Hood
Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations are both available with the Saturn Vue. Standard on both is four-wheel independent suspension.
There are two engines available for 2005. Front-wheel drive models can be had with both. The base engine inside the Vue is a 2.2-liter Ecotec inline 4-cylinder model. It generates 143 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 152 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. It is available with 5-speed manual transmission or with a new Hydra-Matic 4T45-E 4-speed automatic transaxle.
The V6 engine available with 2005 Vue models is a 3.5-liter version. It produces 250 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 242 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm and is mated to a 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with grade logic control, which helps eliminate hunting between gears. This powertrain increases towing ability up to 3,500 pounds.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The four-door Vue has seating for five, plus 30 cubic feet of cargo space. The interior design also includes a number of innovative storage solutions. Versatility is enhanced with a 70/30 split folding rear seat and a front passenger seatback that also folds flat.
For 2005, the available OnStar safety and security system has been upgraded. OnStar-equipped Vues feature new sixth-generation hardware with digital and analog coverage. OnStar’s Gen 6 hardware also includes upgraded hands-free voice recognition capabilities including more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy.
The Vue has an all-new look for 2005, one that includes chrome headlamp bezels on all models. V6 models have new chrome door handles and belt-line molding, as well as body-color outside rearview mirrors.
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