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2006 NAIAS :: Reviews and Interviews

Saturn unveils the new VUE Hybrid

PHOTO BY JASON RZUCIDLO / AMERICAJR.com

The Saturn Vue Hybrid is being introduced during day one of Press Week.

by Gloria Rzucidlo

AmericaJR.com Webteam

 

Rick Wagoner, CEO of General Motors unveiled the new Saturn VUE Hybrid to the world media on Sunday at the 2006 North American International Auto Show.

Mike Morrissey, Manager of Product Communications, explained that the engine is off when the vehicle is stopped. It also has auto start and electric-only operation. It has electric power assist during passing. No idling at a stop and early fuel cut off. It's electric only during deceleration.

It has proven to be the highest (miles per gallon) mpg in any SUV. You get 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. It is a 5 mpg increase over the current 4-cylinder model. You can choose 2 modes of air conditioning, one for economy.

This VUE comes with a 2.4 liter ecotech engine. It will give you a boost when accelerating. The VUE Hybrid will be faster than the current 4-cylinder model. The 300 volt battery is made of nickel medal hydride.

The battery charges itself while moving. The battery is warranted for 8 years. It has a 3-year, 36,000 mile warranty with a 5-year, 50,000 mile warranty on the power train. The VUE has plastic side panels with heavy steel inside for driver safety and it will not even dent.

The VUE will be coming out this summer and will cost less than $23,000. Saturn is a company that is doing well profitably and they plan to extend their line to six different models. They have the Ion, Relay and VUE now. The Ion will be discontinuing and will be replaced in the future.

PHOTO BY JASON RZUCIDLO / AMERICAJR.com

A side view of the new Saturn VUE Hybrid.

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