Did the 2008 Saturn Vue have a Honda engine?
Yes, the 2008 Saturn Vue did have a Honda engine. The Saturn Vue was a compact crossover SUV produced by General Motors from 2001 to 2009, and the 2008 model year version featured an optional Honda-sourced V6 engine.
The Saturn Vue's Honda Engine
For the 2008 model year, the Saturn Vue was available with two engine options: a 2.4-liter inline-four engine produced by General Motors, and an optional 3.5-liter V6 engine sourced from Honda. The Honda-built V6 engine was a popular choice for Vue buyers, as it provided more power and performance compared to the standard GM engine.
The Honda-sourced V6 engine in the 2008 Saturn Vue produced 257 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. This engine was the same 3.5-liter V6 that was used in several Honda and Acura models at the time, including the Accord, Pilot, and Odyssey.
Why Did Saturn Use a Honda Engine?
General Motors and Honda had a long-standing partnership that allowed them to share certain vehicle components and technologies. By using the Honda V6 engine in the Saturn Vue, GM was able to offer a more powerful and refined powertrain option without having to develop an entirely new engine from scratch.
This arrangement was mutually beneficial, as it allowed Honda to expand the reach of its engines while also providing GM with a high-quality, proven V6 option for the Vue. The use of the Honda engine was seen as a positive for the Vue, as it gave the crossover SUV a reputation for reliability and performance that was on par with Honda's own vehicles.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2008 Saturn Vue did indeed feature a Honda-sourced V6 engine as an optional powertrain choice. This partnership between GM and Honda allowed the Vue to offer a more powerful and refined engine option, which was well-received by consumers at the time.