Grand Vitara Vs. Vue

[mrschwarz]

Has anyone driven both? I would appreciate some opinions as to which one rides better. Other observations (features, towing, etc.) would be welcome, too.

[mrschwarz]

Has anyone driven both? I would appreciate some opinions as to which one rides better. Other observations (features, towing, etc.) would be welcome, too.

[paz]

We drove both back in 2006 when we were first looking. We were looking at the V6 AWD/4WD. We ended up buying a Vue primarily because the redesigned GV just came out and not many dealers had them in stock yet and we didn't have time to wait for the option/color combination we wanted.

The Vue also won out on power and acceleration as well as fuel economy. The Honda V6/transaxle used in the Vue is smooth as silk. The EPA fuel economy (for what that is worth) was actually lower for the GV even though it had less horsepower.

Both vehicles rode and handled well. As I recall, the differences were minor and were more a matter of preference rather than either one having a problem.

Towing speed limit was another factor in favor of the Vue. The Vue says don't exceed 65 MPH and the GV limit is 55. I don't know if the limit has to do with potential transmission damage, or vehicle tracking and stability, or if the manufacturers are just trying to cover themselves.

The other thing we didn't like was the spare tire hanging off the back of the GV. This was just our personal preference as the Vue uses a compact spare and some may prefer the full-sized spare on the GV.

If you are planning any off-roading, the GV is probably a better choice as it has (I think) real 4WD (not AWD) and a stronger frame.

I think you have a good idea trying to get impressions from other irv2 members, but nothing will replace actually driving both vehicles yourself. Good luck with your search.

[mrschwarz]

I finally decided to go with the Saturn. To change the subject, I decided to go with a Blue Ox tow bar. Can anyone recommend either the Advanta II or Aladdin?

[max49]

I was intrigued with the Suzuki and the Vue. How much do they weigh and are they priced about the same.
I've got a tough decision. I want to be able to tow 4 down and lighter is better. However, I'd like to be able to tow the motocycle trailer or boat sometimes, with the toad. Preferably , I'd want a 2" receiver hitch. Will either one of these take a frame mounter receiver hitch?
I looked at a Ford "Escape", and it does'nt even have a frame.
Right now we have a Chevy S-10 Blazer, can be towed 4 down and will pull the boat fine, but it weighs 4000 lbs.
I looked at the Suzuki SX4 but can't be towed unless all 4 wheels are on a trailer.
Oh yea, DW says, "no stick shift"

[teofff]

I bought an 06 GV, and am very happy with my coice...4X4 and it's got all the bells and whistles. No fuses to pull when towing, but it is recommended to stop every 200 miles and run the engine...easy to set up for towing...and if I remember correctly the weight is about 3300 lbs.

[mrschwarz]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by max49:
I was intrigued with the Suzuki and the Vue. How much do they weigh and are they priced about the same. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

One of my dilemmas was they both weight about the same ~3,500 lbs. and were priced about the same. The Vue has a bigger engine (V6), better ride (IMO), and better gas mlieage. The GV has more options (leather, keyless start, etc.) but is more Jeep-like, has poorer mileage and the ride is not as good.

The GV can be towed by putting the transfer case in 'N' and going. The Vue requires a fuse to be pulled (which will be reduced to a switch).

[RV 4 2]

You might want to keep in mind that for 2008, the Saturn Vue is changing. No more Honda drive train (now GM), no more polymer body panels (now steel), it will be heavier and a complete interior and exterior redesign.
If you go to the Saturn website, you can find the new VUE in the future cars.
We bought our 07 VUE just for the reasons above. I looked at the GV but was not a fan of the styling which is completly personal.