What is specific to the Red Line package, however, is a set of snazzy P245/50S R18 all-season tires mounted on 18-inch alloy

The 250-hp 3.5-liter 24-valve, DOHC, Honda-derived V6 is powerful and responsive. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

wheels, framing a large set of 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS. A sport-tuned suspension also comes as part of the package, but I can't say I found it all that sporty. In fact, it felt a little loose. Actually its four-wheel independent suspension was just that: four wheels acting independently of each other. When I went hard into a corner I could really feel the body roll, which was a shame because was difficult to take advantage of the superb engine. I wanted to push it a little more around corners, but when I tried it just "melted" underneath, so to speak. Too bad!

The VUE's interior is basic and functional, but still not as impressive as the engine. Like the ION, Saturn's SUV doesn't have that sporty flavor. The biggest difference between the two models, however, at least from a driver's

While the Red Line package doesn't change much on the inside, the VUE's interior is basic and functional. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

perspective, is that the instrument cluster is in front of the driver and not mounted at center, which is a plus in my books. The seats are comfortably cushy, but perhaps a little too cushy for my tushy that would have rather been held in place during aggressive maneuvers. This led to more movement in the seats than if the seats were formfitting, or had better side support.

On a more positive note the Red Line package makes the VUE quite distinguishable from its non-tricked out little ION brother, due to a reworked front and rear fascia, extended rockers and bright chrome exhaust tips. The flashy, yet hardly tacky ensemble is enough to make most people take a second glance.