Not your grandma's sedate SUV any more...

BoA · 05-15-2004, 04:46 AM

Since this forum was looking a bit light in the content arena... I thought I would comment on my new Redline.

While I have my issues with the Redline name... I can't argue with the affects of pure horsepower. My Redline Vue is an amazing machine... It has more power than it has traction for... (Standing Start with the trany set to I (Intermediate) will yield a consistent level of tire squeal as the engine puts out more power the the Suspension/Wheel/Tire combination can effectively put to the road and maintain traction.

But, its the shear reserve of power is the most impressive....

But all of that's "just fine"... what would I change if I had the chance...

First on my list for replacement the Driver's seat. While the factory seat is very nice and fully adjustable... it has one glaring lack in vehicle this capable... any kind of "keep you in the seat" support. The seat is more suitable to driving an underpowered Van... and not suitable for a performance vehicle.
Audio In Port for plugging in an MP3 Player
More Storage Cubbies, there's a ton of places they could go... just a few of which Saturn chose to use.
A sequential shift tranny (aka: auto stick)... The 5-speed is a excellent trany for the engine and drive train... however, this car WANTS to be driven more like a manual than an automatic... And, while I don't want to have to deal with a clutch (given the "in-traffic" driving each day. Having a bit more control over the shift would be much appreciated....
A rear "cargo area" cover (designed and built for the vehicle - like the one my old Starion had... it was a hard cover with designed in edges all around to have it stay closed and prevent peaking around the edges from edge curl.

Any one else....???

selliott · 05-19-2004, 12:50 AM

I couldn't afford to get a redline, which SUCKS but huh my local SAturn dealer will install the KIT for $1200 bucks so i will go for it later. The performance of the new VUE is just unblievable I agree that a 5 speed manual or maybe even a 6 SPEED would be sweet, But I love to just put the pedal to the floor and fly by traffic.

New 2004 Specs
3.5 liters V6
250 hp 5800rpm 242 ft-lbs Torque 4500 rpm

BoA · 05-21-2004, 03:17 PM

I find myself having to drive a little more deliberately... the RLV is just way too happy to zoom along... I can reach out well past the speed...

My only issue I have with the Vue is the Driver's seat... It is a bit flat and not very supporting... I'm now investigating the options for a replacement seat...

picksl1 · 05-24-2004, 04:24 PM

i used to work for a saturn dealership and the RL vue has the same exact engine as the standard VUE....250 HP honda 3.5L V6

as for the 1200 for the RL kit. it will be just that...the body kit. the VUE has an RL package which includes 18s, 1 inch drop, chrome exhaust tip, and the body kit for about $2000

BoA · 05-25-2004, 08:15 PM

I don't know about that... the handling and performance seems different between the std. V6 and the Redline... While it may have the same engine... All it would take is small tweak in the ECM or trany programming to make a difference.

Update:... Ok I checked up on my "test drive comparison"... the Standard V6 Vue I test drove was a previous version... and not the same engine... So, the only difference between the Redline and others is the trim... which is a significant improvement... Now, the real advantage (which is factual) is the handling improvements...

There is a significant handling difference...

NewVue · 06-06-2004, 10:31 PM

I have a 2004 FWD 6 with the Honda 3.5L V6 and it is the same as the Redline. I just did not like or want the ground effects or the lower stance because I will be taking mine off the pavement. But we have a pretty large group over at www.saturnfans.com (not to down play this site).

PeteSaturnSales · 07-12-2004, 01:01 AM

In addition to the modified body, the Redline VUE has 1" lowered stiffer suspension and 10mm wider 245-18inch wheels. Redline is available in FWD versions as well if you're on a budget. Accelleration shouldn't be much different for standard V6 or Redline but cornering will be tighter with the Redline.

TMBiker · 02-13-2005, 05:34 AM

Yesterday, I picked up my 05 Vue Redline, in black. I chose the FWD because I don't go off-road at all, and I figure since the 4WD weighs a couple hundred pounds more, my FWD will accelerate better. As it is, I find the acceleration acceptable, but not stellar (this is just compared to other vehicles I own). However, I almost went for the Honda Element...until I drove one. Ugh. Slooooow, and mushy.

Now, I've got to find 19" wheels, and I'll be putting that lower spring/strut kit on sometime.

Tom

Artificialist · 02-16-2005, 09:15 AM

For seats, Sparco, Recaro, and Momo have some of the best, however you will pay a premium.

alohadee · 03-01-2005, 01:12 AM

Here is my first post here...

I just bought a Redline Vue - Black...
Actually Im picking it up on Wed...
However my friend has one that she bought a few months ago
(Not RL) and its a fun car. So I got to drive it on a few trips...

I agree on the following:
Seats / pattern are kind of needing a update.
It reminds me of an HMO Waiting room...

Stereo - Needs updating too...

Well I'll be posting more....

Dee Dee