Green is in Vue for Saturn

[Tideland Prius]

First came the performance Red Line - now, in these times of rising gas prices, Saturn has introduced the Saturn Vue Green Line, the first Saturn hybrid vehicle.

Available in the Summer of 2006, the Vue Green Line is powered by a 2.4-litre variable valve timing 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. The gasoline engine shuts off at idle for increased fuel economy and the vehicle has the capability to capture electrical energy through regenerative braking.

Another spec that's sure to make many drivers happy, the Vue Green Line produces 170-horsepower, which is actually a 20% increase over the standard Saturn Vue (its 2.2-litre engine produces 143-horsepower). During heavy acceleration, the vehicle's system improves both fuel economy and acceleration by using the motor/generator to bolster the gasoline engine.

When the vehicle is stopped, it's still smart enough to maintain full accessory functionality - meaning things like air conditioning still function, but the hybrid system's use is transparent to the vehicle's occupants.

While inside the Vue Green Line, the driver will have a view of the hybrid-specific 'charge-assist' readout, a tachometer with 'Auto Stop' and 'Off' readouts. 'Auto Stop' indicates when the engine is shut off, while 'Off' indicates when the key is physically in the 'off' position or removed from the ignition. In addition, an 'Eco' indicator lights up whenever the instant fuel economy exceeds the average fuel economy ratings.

Saturn Canada says that the Vue Green Line sport utility vehicle will start at less than $30,000 and could realistically provide customers with a payback on their up-front investment through reduced fuel costs over the life of the vehicle.

Source: Autonet.ca


Under $30k eh? The HCH is $25,800 making it cheaper than the Insight and the cheapest hybrid on the road in Canada. The Escape Hybrid starts around $35,000 if I remember correctly.