Hi,
Thanks for posting your concerns, buying a car can be a challenge. I bought a red 2002 v6 Vue in July. I got it with the ABS, Sunroof, side curtain airbag and upgraded stereo )Tape and CD). I had read some comments and concerns about the Vue previous to shopping, by and large they are true but I think beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I test drove the Ford Escape, Mazda Trib and Hyundai SantaFe. The Trib and escape were much noisier imo than the vue and also had a much stiffer ride, and their seemed to be some serious concerns about Ford quality in reading other forums. Personally I've never liked Fords so I am somewhat biased but wanted to do "due dilligence" in my research and I would have bought one if it was the clear choice. I did not drive the CRV but I just didn't like the look of it, I know that Honda is renowned for fit and finish and quality. I really didn't like the tire hanging off the back end. The radio button on the Santa Fe fell off in my hand and my daughter openeed the rear ash tray and it came apart. With a little reliability and dealer service issues worked out in the future I would consider the SantaFe again.I felt like it would be a gamble, it also takes some getting used to to love the shape. It did have several fetures that I liked, rear center arm rests, split rear hatch with window that opens. All that said I bought the Vue because it fit most of my criteria. I now have 4000 miles and I'm very much enjoying the vehicle. The engine does have a raspiness and the cabin could be a little quieter.... but the other features and benefits more than make up for that. I know that the rear pop up basket looks flimsy but it does work quite well and if treated with proper care should hold up for the life of the vehicle. The seats are comfortable and it's fun to drive. Several have commented on not liking the electric steering. I disagree, I do not feel any floating at all. It does feel different but I like it especially in parking situations. I drove my wifes minivan recently and now that steering felt too tight and heavy. I don't need to feel the road that much!!!! Lastly, I hate buying cars and the Saturn experience was much better than anything I've experienced. I wish you luck in your search, hope that this helps
TO GEHE regarding the seat cloth - my understanding is that the 4cyl models have a different non-velour type cloth and the 6cyl models have what you are describing
-Thanks for the seat cover feedback. That sounds about right.
-We are in the "same boat" on most VUE issues.
-Your #1954 message ... what report ?
Later
As it was posted
"Just found this very comprehensive owner review on the Saturn site" by simonov. While it is an overall good review, this is not the corporate Saturn website. The website in which this was taken (Saturnfans.com) is not connected with Saturn Corp.
Anyone know where the Honda V-6's will be applied.
Published reports indicated Saturn has contracted with Honda for the purchase of their V-6 engines for next year.
Any chance that these may show up in the Vue ??
The Honda V6 was said to arrive in an "extended", Larger version of the VUE. Last I heard however, the plans for an extended VUE were scraped, thus the V6 from Honda does'nt seem like it will arrive anytime soon.