The Saturn VUE, specifically the first generation (VUE I) produced from 2001 to 2007, represented a significant departure for General Motors. Marketed under the now-defunct Saturn brand, the VUE was a compact crossover SUV designed to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and a unique driving experience. The 2.2i 16V AWD model, equipped with a 2.2-liter inline-four engine producing 145 horsepower, was a popular configuration, offering all-wheel drive capability for enhanced traction in various weather conditions. The VUE aimed to carve out a niche in a rapidly expanding segment, competing with vehicles like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
Saturn VUE I 2.2 i 16V AWD: An Overview
The VUE I was notable for its polymer (plastic) body panels, a cost-saving measure and a distinctive design element for the Saturn brand. This allowed for greater flexibility in styling and reduced the risk of corrosion. The vehicle was offered in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, with the 2.2i AWD model providing added stability and control. The VUE’s interior focused on functionality and comfort, offering seating for five passengers and a reasonably spacious cargo area. While not a performance vehicle, the 2.2i AWD provided adequate power for everyday driving and light off-road use.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Saturn VUE I 2.2i 16V AWD is a 2.2-liter (2198 cm3 or 134.13 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder engine, designated the L61. This naturally aspirated engine produces 145 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 206 Nm (151.94 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 10:1. Power delivery is adequate for typical driving scenarios, with a power-to-liter ratio of 66 hp/l. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.5 seconds, while 0-100 km/h takes 11.1 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 160 km/h (99.42 mph). The engine’s weight-to-power ratio is 10.8 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.6 kg/Nm. The engine requires 4.7 liters (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) of engine oil and 7 liters (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) of coolant.
Design & Features
The Saturn VUE I is a five-door, five-seat off-road vehicle (crossover SUV). Its design was characterized by its rounded edges and the aforementioned polymer body panels. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering a comfortable cabin with adequate space for passengers and cargo. The trunk (boot) space measures a minimum of 860 liters (30.37 cu. ft.). Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock braking system). The VUE I utilized a spring strut front suspension and a transverse stabilizer rear suspension. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drums at the rear. Steering is rack and pinion, with electric power steering assistance. The vehicle rides on 235/65 R16 tires. The VUE’s polymer body panels were a key selling point, offering resistance to dents and rust, and allowing for a unique color palette. The all-wheel drive system enhances traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Saturn |
| Model | VUE |
| Generation | VUE I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 i 16V AWD (145 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 year |
| End of production | 2007 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 145 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66 Hp/l |
| Torque | 206 Nm @ 4000 rpm (151.94 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | L61 |
| Engine displacement | 2198 cm3 (134.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 860 l (30.37 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 59 l (15.59 US gal | 12.98 UK gal) |
| Length | 4605 mm (181.3 in.) |
| Width | 1817 mm (71.54 in.) |
| Height | 1689 mm (66.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2707 mm (106.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R16 |
