Saturn's take on the SUV-craze has produced one of the most sensible midsize compact Sport Ute's available. The VUE is smartly styled, features a number of innovative technologies and is steeped in the traditional philosophy of Saturn design. Add to this the number of customized VUEs that keep popping up at SEMA shows and car events, and it becomes clear that Saturn intends for the VUE to reach a broad variety of customers. Later in the model year, Saturn plans to unveil its own performance line of cars and SUVs dubbed the Red Line series. The VUE Red Line will feature special front and rear fascia, have a sport-tuned suspension that lowers the car by an inch and be outfitted with massive 18-inch wheels and Bridgestone tires.

If the Red Line concept goes a bit beyond your idea of racy good looks, you can always adopt one of the less extreme models. Saturn offers the VUE in your choice of front- or all-wheel-drive; either model can be equipped with a frugal four-cylinder or potent new V6. The base VUE's 2.2-liter Ecotec engine employs a 16-valve layout that helps it develop 143 horsepower. The Ecotec is GM's newest four-cylinder and you'll not only find it to be frugal on gas, but surprisingly strong off the line.

Of course, that description applies to the VUE when only two persons are aboard; load in more passengers and cargo and the little Ecotec begins to feel the strain. Optional on the 2.2-liter model is a new VTi variable transmission that allows for better torque distribution and fuel economy. The VTi replaces the conventional automatic's step-ratio gearing with a two-pulley system that creates a smooth, linear acceleration pattern, well suited for climbing steep hills or passing slower moving traffic. The VTi also achieves the same fuel economy figures as the standard five-speed manual.

For those who intend to use their VUE as a weekend warrior and primary family hauler, the V6 option is probably the better route. For 2004, Saturn has replaced the old 3.0-liter engine with an all-new 3.5-liter V6. This engine, along with its five-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission, was specifically engineered for Saturn by Honda. As a result, power jumps to an awesome 250 horsepower and 242 lbs-ft. of torque at just 4500 rpm. This engine brings the normal demure VUE into a whole new realm, one littered with Jackrabbit starts and lightning-quick throttle response. Saturn had Honda endow their new V6 with variable-valve timing, a system that controls intake and exhaust rates for improved low-end torque and fuel economy. Where the four-cylinder engine can get a bit loud when pushed, the V6 delivers its power with little commotion or complaint.

Naturally, the VUE is about more than just power; it's about comfort, convenience and storage as well. Inside, the VUE can serve as either a transport for up to five passengers, or as a rolling storage lot, big enough to hold all manner of luggage, sports equipment and camping gear. The rear cargo area is cleverly laid out, with two rear bins designed to hold a 1-gallon milk jug firmly in place and a set of rear hooks for hanging plastic grocery bags.

Front seat room is more than generous and six-footers will find easy clearance for the tops of their head. The driver and passenger enjoy a set of comfortable bucket seats, divided by a wide center console peppered with storage areas as well as a set of dual cup holders. You'll find the transmission shifter to be placed within easy reach, centered in a protruding pod that extends from the lower dash. We like this design because it allows you to easily reach the shifter without having it block the instruments.

Rear seat passengers also enjoy an open and roomy space, highlighted by a reclining 70/30 split-bench seat. Unlike many small SUVs, the VUE retains a good amount of cargo volume behind the second-row seat for luggage, groceries or the kid's athletic gear. Fold the second row seat flat and the VUE doubles its cargo hauling ability; the front passenger seat even folds completely flat so you can load in really long objects and still close the rear hatch. Those who were assigned the back seat found that entry and exit was made easy by the VUE's low step-in height and long rear doors.