2008 Saturn Vue Gets More Style, Power and Higher Price

Saturn just recently announced the pricing for the 2008 lineup of Saturn Vue SUV's. The base model Saturn Vue gets a whopping $3300 USD price bump!

That's a big price hike for a vehicle that typically targets the econo-buyer. However, with stiff competition from the ever-popular Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4, Saturn was obviously feeling the heat to overhaul, and up-market their Vue.

The higher price tag is a direct result of a complete overhaul of the Saturn Vue. Just about everything from fit and finish, engine power and exterior design cues have been re-engineered and upgraded. Thankfully, Saturn finally wised up and got rid of the manual transmission which came standard on 2007 and earlier model years. I never understood the logic on that. I can't imagine anybody wanting to drive a stick-shift base model Vue. For 2008 an automatic transmission is standard fare and they've discontinued the manual gearbox entirely. Good move, because consumers are smart these days and nobody feels good paying extra for an automatic transmission on a vehicle that pretty much has to have one.

In Canada, this market segment is dominated by two players - the Honda CR-V, and the Ford Escape. It won't be easy to knock them off their perch. There is a lot to like about the new Vue, but the real question is whether the Saturn Vue will gain more customers at the new price point, or leave more behind?

( Add your comments )

Recent Entries:
· Honda Announces Mileage Marathon Winner
· Cadillac Converj is GM's next electric car
· Could DeLorean save the Pontiac Solstice?

[ READER COMMENTS ]

2008 Saturn Vue Gets More Style, Power and Higher Price

Add your comments...

We kindly ask that you keep your comments relevant to this blog entry. Abusive or inappropriate comments or comments that are specifically promotional in nature may be removed.