2007 Saturn VUE Green Line

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Remember the 'five speed' badges that used to appear on early compact cars, when having four forward gears was the norm? The Saturn VUE Green Line puts us in mind of those cars, because it's not hard to envision a future in which the VUE Green Line's 'soft' hybrid system becomes something downright commonplace.

This compact SUV doesn't look that much different from its conventionally-powered stablemates. Just like the Ford Escape and Toyota Highlander hybrids, the VUE Green Line carries its cards close to its vest. Unlike the competition, the Saturn uses a milder hybrid system. It boosts fuel economy, but it's a more compact system that doesn't take up as much space inside the car, and consequently doesn't cost as much. The VUE Green Line blends perfectly into the background, and that's just what it should do.

Here's the trick; the VUE Green Line doesn't have a full-electric mode. When the vehicle comes to a full stop, an integrated motor-generator quietly shuts the engine off. Take your foot off of the brake or touch the throttle and the engine kicks back on smoothly and without hesitation. The motor-generator also provides a power boost under acceleration, and its batteries are recharged via regenerative braking. Part of the reason for the single-mode hybrid setup is cost; the VUE Green Line only commands a $2000 premium over the conventionally-powered VUE.

Like Toyota's Highlander Hybrid, the VUE Green Line works almost transparently. Total horsepower from the 2.4 liter engine and hybrid system is about 170. Variable valve timing improves the engine's throttle response. Where many hybrids use a smaller engine and thus tend to be somewhat lacking in power off the line, the VUE Green Line relies primarily on engine shutoff for fuel savings and the 2.4 is an adequate power plant. The 115 ft-lb torque that the motor-generator can add to the equation results in even more urge. A four-speed automatic transmission gets the power to the road.

Apart from that, it's just like any other VUE. The styling does little to set it apart from the rest of the VUE lineup. In Green Line form, you get chromed skid plates and side moldings, painted door handles and mirror trim, and that's about it. That isn't to say that the VUE Green Line doesn't look good, of course. A mild facial restyling for 2007 imparts some of the brand's new-found sense of style in the form of a narrow grille and an upswept rocker panel line. 16" wheels are shod with high-efficiency tires.

The VUE Green Line gives up very little space inside to the battery pack and other hybrid equipment. There's no spare tire, but OnStar is standard. From the driver's seat, the "eco" gauge on the dash that lights up whenever the VUE is bettering its EPA fuel economy ratings is the only significant evidence of the hybrid powertrain. Considering the relatively mild nature of the VUE Green Line's hybrid system, it seems like it's tooting its horn a bit too loudly, but that's just a nitpick. The VUE Green Line has been designed as a 'round-town tall wagon, and it fills this role well. Saturn's Power Convenience Package is standard, adding power windows and mirrors, a fold-flat front passenger seat and the VUE's handy rear cargo organizer.

Saturn helps to justify the VUE Green Line's higher price with a generous equipment list; anti-lock brakes and traction control are standard. Suspension setup is basically the same as the rest of the VUE lineup, with struts up front and an independent trailing-arm rear. Electric power steering is standard and also helps to improve fuel economy.

At the end of the day, we didn't give the VUE Green Line any special "green" points for being a hybrid, because it didn't need them. The fuel economy is nice, sure, but we'd rather see this technology become more commonplace. Hopefully the VUE Green Line is pointing the way toward more common usage of the "soft" hybrid system to boost fuel economy in other GM products. The VUE Green Line is a skilled do-all in its own right, with ample power and cargo space. Window sticker prices start at $22,995.




Specifications:
All specs are for the 2007 Saturn VUE Green Line.
Length: 181.3 in.
Width: 71.6 in.
Height: 65.3 in.
Wheelbase: 106.6 in.
Curb weight: 3474 lb.
Cargo space: 30.8 cu.ft.
Base price: $22,995
Engine: 2.4 liter DOHC inline four-cylinder
Drivetrain: four-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Horsepower: 170 @ 6600
Torque: 162 @ 4400
Fuel capacity: 16.3 gal.
Est. mileage: 27/32