2008 Saturn Vue XE-V6

The 2008 Saturn Vue XE V6 AWD is a five-passenger compact SUV that combines a robust V6 engine, all-wheel drive capability and a versatile interior—making it a sensible choice for drivers seeking something more than a bare-bones utility vehicle.


Powertrain & Performance


Under the hood you’ll find a 3.5-litre V6 engine in the XE V6 AWD model, producing approximately 222 horsepower and 219 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system that is on-demand and electronically engaged. This setup provides confident acceleration and good traction in slippery conditions. Fuel economy for this configuration is modest—around 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway in U.S. terms—so it’s not as frugal as smaller crossovers.


Exterior & Dimensions


The 2008 Vue measures about 180 inches in length, spans roughly 73 inches in width, and stands around 67 inches tall. It rides on a 106.6-inch wheelbase, giving it a roomy feel for the size class. The body style is a conventional four-door SUV with a rear hatch, and the AWD system gives it added capability for light off-road or snowy conditions.


Interior & Utility


Inside, the cabin seats five comfortably. The front row offers good leg- and headroom, while the rear seat provides decent space though the legroom is somewhat less generous than some rivals. One of the strong points is cargo versatility: with the rear seats upright you have a useful load area, and folding the seats expands the space further for larger items or gear. Standard features on the XE include things like air conditioning, power accessories, cruise control, steering-wheel audio controls, a CD/MP3 capable stereo, and keyless entry. Optional upgrades include leather seating, heated front seats, premium audio, and a navigation system.


Safety & Practicalities


The Vue comes well-equipped in the safety department for its time: it includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, front side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. These features contribute to a confident feel behind the wheel. The AWD version provides better grip in challenging weather, which is a real plus for drivers in wetter or snow-prone regions.


Strengths & Trade-Offs


Strengths:


Solid V6 power and AWD capability make it more capable than many entry-level crossovers.
Good versatility with cargo space and a practical five-seat layout.
Decent feature set even in the base XE trim, with upgrade possibilities.


Trade-Offs:


Fuel economy is lower than many smaller or four-cylinder crossovers.
Rear-seat legroom and some interior materials may feel less refined compared with higher-end rivals.
Long-term maintenance and repair history should be checked carefully if buying used — as with any older vehicle, prior care matters.


Summary


Overall, the 2008 Saturn Vue XE V6 AWD stands out as a practical compact SUV option with strong V6 performance, all-wheel drive for added security, and a flexible interior. If you’re after a vehicle that’s more capable than the typical four-cylinder crossover—particularly in challenging driving conditions—and you’re okay with moderate fuel economy, this could be a sensible pick. As always with a used vehicle of this age, checking the condition of the drivetrain, suspension, and service history is key.