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What it Is
2008 Saturn Vue Green Line Preview - 2007 Chicago Auto Show: When it first debuted, the Saturn Vue Green Line was a "Lite" hybrid...less pricey than regular hybrids, slightly more fuel efficient than other Vues, and with all that great hybrid taste. That status changes next year, when the Vue Green Line will be powered by GM's sophisticated new two-mode hybrid propulsion system, promising a 45 percent improvement in fuel economy over the non-hybrid Vue. But until then we're left with the 2008 Saturn Vue Green Line and it's pretty good gas mileage - for a pretty good price.
Why it Matters
People like convenience. They like to save cash, too. And they don’t really mind much when they do something nice for others. This makes hybrids and SUVs a perfect marriage: you get your SUV roominess, 30 mpg or better, and the warm fuzzies that come with cutting down on CO2 emissions. Based on those criteria, then, the Saturn Vue Green Line should sell well, as long as the price is right and the interior is improved.
What Saturn Says
Saturn claims that “the 2008 Vue Green Line hybrid will continue to provide consumers with an affordable hybrid that also provides uncompromised utility.”
What We Think
The new Saturn Vue Green Line is important because it provides better fuel economy for those who must drive SUVs, and does so at a decent price. As GM prepares for the next step in its hybrid strategy, and perhaps leads up to a plug-in Vue sometime in the future, this SUV will help to pave the way. All by itself, however, the Saturn Vue Green Line could be a great car as long as Saturn follows through on its recent trend and builds the thing with quality interior materials and tight construction.
By Brian Chee
Photo Credit: Brian Chee, General Motors
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