A Canine’s VUE
Saturn crossover rated among most dog-friendly models
By Steve Krause
Let’s see … Cool styling, got it. Good horsepower, yes. Excellent fuel economy, right. Dog-friendly, check.
Wait a minute … “Dog-friendly”?
It’s true. More people, it seems, are adding that category to their list of “must-have” features when shopping for a new ride.
In fact, there’s even a website devoted to the topic — www.DogCars.com — which evaluates vehicles for pet-friendliness.
What’s more, the website recently named the VUE as one of its five most dog-friendly vehicles.
What makes one vehicle more canine-friendly than another?
Based on the website’s recent “5 at 25” evaluation, vehicles must provide a fuel economy rating of close to or exceeding 25 mpg on the highway and have a base price under $25,000.
Not surprisingly, with a 2008 VUE’s MSRP starting at $22,150 and an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 19 city/26 hwy, the sporty Saturn easily met the criteria.
In summarizing the VUE, the DogCars.com judges (of the human kind, we presume) praised the roomy crossover for its smooth ride and pet- (and kid)-friendly features. The judges also cited the VUE’s rear-hatch-style door, fold-flat seats and spacious cargo area as important amenities for any pooch that loves to travel.
“The VUE is great for Beau, my 8-year-old black Lab,” says Dick Singleton of Grants, New Mexico, who owns silver 2008 VUE XE. “With the rear seats lowered, he has plenty of room and a convenient height.”
www.DogCars.com also recommended checking out a VUE Hybrid — a great suggestion if your four-legged family member happens to be ecologically minded. Save up to $6,000 on remaining 2008 VUE's. You can see all of the great Saturn VUE deals at Saturn of Asheville, Saturn of Greenville, and Saturn of Spartanburg.
