In 2005, Saturn decided to focus on addition by subtraction. The new year saw the Saturn VUE SUV abandon its signature Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) in the FWD 4 cylinder trim in favor of more traditional technology. The limited switch to 4 speed automatic transmission showed Saturn's willingness to focus on maximizing a more established system. Other updates included 3 new body colors, revised upholstery and interior highlights, a passenger-side sunshade, and standard OnStar telecom technology.

Otherwise, the 2005 Saturn VUE SUV remains the same. The VUE still comes in 4 different trims: FWD 4 cylinder (now with the optional 4 speed automatic transmission), AWD 4 cylinder, FWD V6, and AWD V6. The 4 cylinder trims use a 2.2 L, 143 hp engine while the V6 trims have kept the powerful 3.5 L, 250 hp that Saturn introduced in '04. Gas mileage remains around 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway.

Based on the previous couple years, it appears that the 2005 Saturn VUE SUV settled into its niche as a solid product in the competitive compact SUV market. However, consumers looking for premium materials and a unique style walked away disappointed. The response to this model told Saturn that it had an important decision to make. More specifically, the time had come for the Saturn VUE SUV to either remain content with giving consumers what they needed, or lavishing new customers with everything they could want.