WASHINGTON – Despite more stringent EPA mpg testing procedures for 2008 models, GM’s Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid drew a 25/32 mpg city/highway rating for the 2008 model. The vehicle’s fuel-efficient technologies include an early fuel cut during deceleration, optimized transmission shift points, stopping the engine at idle, regenerative braking, electric power assist during acceleration, low rolling resistance tires, and improved aerodynamics.

In 2008, Saturn is also introducing a Two-Mode hybrid, which allows the Vue to run off either electric or gasoline power individually at the driver’s command, Motor Trend reported. This is expected to result in a 45-percent fuel savings over the standard non-hybrid Vue.

GM has also acknowledged plans to release a plug-in version of the Vue in the future.