Overview

What Changed for 2009:

• New Hybrid model featuring GM's 2-mode hybrid technology
• New 3.6-liter, VVT V-6 engine with direct fuel injection
• First GM FWD 2-mode transmission
• Panic Brake Assist, enhanced Driver Information Center standard
• XE Convenience package includes heated seats
• Preferred Chrome package on V-6 engine models includes revised exterior door handles
• Optional XM satellite radio real-time traffic display on navigation screen
• Available headrest-integrated DVD entertainment system
• OnStar 7.2 with Bluetooth wireless connectivity available on XE, standard on XR, Red Line
• Four new exterior colors: Quicksilver, Gold Mist Metallic, Aquamarine and Chili Pepper Red

Overview
The big news for 2009 is an all-new hybrid model for the Saturn Vue lineup, the Vue 2 Mode Hybrid, with production beginning in late 2008. Powered by a 255-hp, 3.6-liter, variable valve timing (VVT) V-6 engine and GM's 2-mode hybrid technology, the Vue 2 Mode Hybrid is expected to be the world's most fuel-efficient SUV with a V-6 engine, according to Saturn, with an estimated 50-percent increase in fuel economy compared to the non-hybrid Vue XR. It will join the existing Vue Hybrid, which is powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder "mild hybrid" powertrain. Beside the hybrid models, the 2009 Saturn Vue is available in XE and XR trim, as well as the performance-oriented Red Line model. Other 2009 changes include enhancements to equipment packages, technology features, and four new exterior colors: Quicksilver, Gold Mist Metallic, Aquamarine and Chili Pepper Red.

Model Lineup
The Saturn Vue for 2009 is available in XE, XR, Vue Hybrid, Vue 2 Mode Hybrid, and the performance-oriented Red Line. The XE is available in front- and all-wheel drive (FWD and AWD). Standard equipment includes manual air conditioning; enhanced Driver Information Center; power windows/door locks/mirrors; flip-down second-row armrest with storage; flat-folding 60/40-split rear seatback; storage beneath the cargo load floor; and a CD stereo with MP3 capability. Exterior door handles on the Vue XE are charcoal-color, while the XR, both hybrids and Red Line feature chrome. Vue XE models have standard 16-inch alloy wheels, while the up-level XR has larger 17-inch alloy wheels. Models with a V-6 engine have hydraulic power-assisted steering. The "Green Line" name and badge are discontinued for 2009.

Options include an 8-way power driver's seat, automatic climate control system with electronic controls, power sunroof, towing package, and a navigation system with voice recognition. An XE Convenience package includes automatic rain-sensing wipers, heated windshield washer system, remote start, heated front cloth seats, and a universal home remote. The Preferred package adds floor mats and a Flex net cargo system (standard on XR and Red Line, optional on XE). A Chrome package for V-6 engine models includes front/rear chrome skid plates and side fender vents. Available through Saturn Accessories is a rear cargo management system featuring removable, adjustable upper/lower rails and storage nets.

Powertrain
Saturn Vue XE FWD and Hybrid models with 4-cylinder engine are powered by a 2.4-liter, Ecotec dual-overhead cam (DOHC) engine with VVT that produces 169 hp at 6200 rpm (XE) and 172 hp at 6500 rpm (hybrid), and 161 lb.-ft. of torque at 5100 rpm (XE) and 167 lb.-ft. of torque at 4500 rpm (hybrid). Vue XE AWD models have a 3.5-liter V-6 engine delivering 222 hp at 5900 rpm and 219 lb.-ft. of torque at 3200 rpm. Vue XR and Red Line get their power from GM's "high-feature" 60-degree, DOHC, 3.6-liter, V-6 VVT engine that generates 257 hp at 6500 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 2100 rpm. V-6 engine models are mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while 2.4-liter-equipped Vues have a 4-speed electronically controlled transaxle.

EPA fuel-economy estimates for FWD Vues are 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway (2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine), 25 mpg city/32 mpg highway (Vue Hybrid), and 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway (3.6-liter V-6 engine). In AWD models, the numbers are 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway. When equipped with the optional towing package, the Vue can tow up to 3500 pounds. Electronic Trailer Sway Control, integrated into the electronic stability control system, is a towing stabilization system using active braking to help control the vehicle during trailering situations.

The Vue 2 Mode Hybrid has the 3.6-liter, VVT V-6 engine with direct-injection technology that's estimated at 255 hp at 5800 rpm and 252 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. Acceleration from 0-60 mph is expected to be about 7.3 seconds, says Saturn, and the vehicle has a driving range of more than 500 miles on a tank of fuel. The Vue 2 Mode Hybrid also features GM's 2-mode hybrid system, which consists of twin active-cooled 55-kW electric motors integrated into the 2MT70 automatic transmission. There's also a 1.8-kWh, 300-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack packaged beneath the second-row seat, beneath the cargo floor. The 2 Mode Hybrid's "fully blended" electro-hydraulic brake system enables 100 percent regenerative braking, and a 12-volt rack-mounted electric power steering system replaces a conventional column-mounted hydraulic system. It also saves fuel: up to a half-mile per gallon, Saturn claims.

Safety
The Saturn Vue for 2009 features dual-stage front air bags for driver and front passenger; front-seat side thorax air bags and rollover-capable head curtain air bags covering the front and rear rows; front-row safety belt pre-tensioners; Pedal Release System; active head restraints; automatic power door locks; side turn signal lamps; and a tire-pressure monitor. OnStar's safety and security system is standard on all 2009 Saturn Vue models, including one year of the Safe & Sound plan. OnStar service includes GM's Advanced Crash Response System. Electronic stability control, traction control, front and rear vented disc brakes with anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Panic Brake Assist, and electronic trailer sway control are also standard.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2009 Saturn Vue receives perfect 5-star ratings in frontal and side-impact crash tests. In the agency's rollover testing, the Vue received a 4-star rating.

Technology
Standard on every 2009 Saturn Vue is a CD stereo with MP3 capability. A navigation system with voice recognition is optional. OnStar 7.2 that includes Bluetooth wireless connectivity for hands-free calling is also available. Bluetooth is standard on the Vue XR and Red Line and available on the XE with Convenience package. On navigation-equipped models, OnStar system enhancements enable Directions & Connections information to be delivered directly to the system. XM real-time traffic advisories are available for a nominal monthly fee. New for 2009, a headrest-integrated DVD entertainment system is available through Saturn Accessories.