2008 Saturn Vue Red Line Preview

2008 Saturn Vue Red Line -- 2007 Chicago Auto Show Preview: It seems Saturn wants to make everyone happy, or at least everyone shopping for a small crossover. As was the case with the outgoing version, the redesigned 2008 Saturn Vue will be available in three distinct versions – regular, Green Line, and Red Line. It’s the last one we’re interested in – the one with 250 horsepower, variable-valve timing, 18-inch alloys, and a sportier appearance. If there was ever any question in Saturn’s mind about putting the Red Line tag on the redesigned Vue, there shouldn’t have been. With the testosterone-deficient Toyota RAV4 pushing 269 horsepower and offering a Sport package, the Red Line is a no-brainer.

What’s Under the Hood

The Saturn Vue may look like a little crossover, but when the words Red Line are added to the name, you can be sure there’s some punch under the hood. Power comes from a 3.6-liter V6 that pushes 250 horses at 6,500 rpm and 243 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine, which utilizes a dual overhead cam design, features variable-valve timing and puts its muscle to the ground thanks to a manually-interactive six-speed automatic transmission. Front- and all-wheel-drive variants will be offered. The Vue Red Line will also sport a specially-tuned suspension for a more responsive driving character.

What it Looks Like

Though it was only recently unveiled and has yet to hit the streets, variants of the 2008 Saturn Vue are emerging, including the sport-tuned Red Line. To match the power under its hood, the Vue Red Line features a more aggressive front fascia with notable air intakes and fog lights, as well as a revised tail treatment accented by a spoiler and dual chrome exhaust tips. Unique 18-inch alloys fill the wheel wells, and though it might be undetectable to the non-enthusiast’s eye, the Red Line actually sits a bit lower than the regular Vue. Finally, the dead giveaways are the chrome badges crossed by a single red line. Inside, the Red Line includes ebony leather with suede inserts, and a special gauge package.

Photos courtesy of Saturn and Thom Blackett