Does a Saturn Vue have a Honda engine?
The Saturn Vue never used a Honda-built engine. All Vue powertrains were GM-designed and produced, though the SUV did share technology with other GM vehicles from the same era. This article examines the engine options across generations and clears up a common misconception about Honda involvement.
Engine origins and lineup
GM supplied the Vue’s engines throughout its production run, with configurations spanning four-cylinder and V6 options. Honda engines were not used in any production Vue models, and the lineup evolved with GM’s Ecotec family and GM V6 engines, including a hybrid variant.
First generation (2002–2003)
Early Saturn Vue models offered a baseline four-cylinder engine, with a V6 option available for customers seeking more power. These engines were GM-designed and produced, not sourced from Honda.
Second generation and updates (2004–2009)
In the second generation, the Vue’s engine choices broadened to include additional GM four-cylinder and V6 options, and a hybrid variant joined the lineup. The hybrid used GM’s BAS (belt alternator starter) system paired with a four-cylinder engine, all GM-originated technology.
Before diving into specifics, here is a concise overview of the core engine configurations used in the Vue over its lifespan:
- 2.2L Ecotec inline-four (base configuration for some early models)
- 3.0L V6 (optional in early years)
- 2.4L Ecotec inline-four (later models and hybrid variant)
- 3.5L V6 (present in certain trims/years)
- Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid (2007–2009), pairing a 2.4L four-cylinder engine with an electric motor
All of these powertrains were GM-designed, with no Honda engines installed in production Vue models.
Common myths and clarifications
A frequent claim is that Honda supplied the Vue’s engine. This is a misconception. The Vue’s drivetrain relied on GM-engineered families, and Honda’s involvement with the Vue’s powertrain is not part of the vehicle’s documented history.
- Myth: Honda supplied the Vue’s engine.
- Reality: GM designed and produced all Vue engines; there were no Honda engines in production Vue models.
For prospective buyers and enthusiasts, understanding the drivetrain history helps in evaluating maintenance needs and reliability, as the Vue’s engines align with GM’s Ecotec family and GM V6 lineage rather than any Honda-sourced units.
What this means for buyers and enthusiasts
When assessing a used Saturn Vue, focus on the specific GM engine configuration in that vehicle (I4 vs V6, non-hybrid vs hybrid), check maintenance records for the Ecotec or V6 family, and pay attention to components associated with the hybrid system if applicable. The absence of Honda engineering remains a distinguishing fact for the Vue’s powertrain history.
Summary
The Saturn Vue’s engines were GM-developed, drawn from the Ecotec inline-four and GM V6 families, with a hybrid variant using GM’s BAS system. There was no Honda engine in production Saturn Vue models, a distinction that matters for collectors and buyers evaluating the vehicle’s drivetrain history.
Did Honda make engines for Saturn?
Yep! The 2004-07 Vue could have a Honda J35 engine, called L66 by GM. Made almost 250 hp, which was a lot in a compact CUV for the time.
Who makes the engines for Saturn?
Saturn Corporation
What is the most common problem of Saturn Vue?
Top Saturn Vue Problems
- Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue.
- Transmission Fault and/or Check Engine Light With Code P0716, P0776, P0717, P0777, P2714, P2715, and...
- Engine Oil Leak From Valve Cover Gaskets.
- DRL Resistor May Fail.
What kind of motor is in a Saturn Vue?
The Vue was produced trim levels with a four-cylinder (I4) or V6 gasoline engine and a manual or automatic transmission.
