The 2008 Saturn AURA ranks very well among the range of affordable medium size cars of the year, as per many surveys. According to most reviews, this particular model is excellent in terms of safety mechanisms for passengers and driver, and its interiors are roomy and comfortable, but the one negative point is that the interiors are nothing so good to rave about. Yet, let us see where the AURA scores well and where it scores not-so-good, whether interiors, styling, convenience or performance.
Road tests and expert analysis reveals that the new Saturn AURA is quite a good car overall, though it could do with slight improvements like in the cabin design. The AURA XR trim is better than the other trim, in terms of its performance with its variable valve timing and 252 hp. Its on-road mileage comes to about 26 mpg on the highways and 17 on city roads. Its sibling trim, the XE offers 22 mpg and 30 mg in city and on highways. This 4 door family sedan is available as of now in two trims, each with 5 passenger seating capacity. The standard transmission in both the Saturn AURA trims is 6 speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
The XE comes with a 2.4-liter, 4 cylinder, 169 hp engine while the other trim (XR) comes with 3.6-liter, V6, and 252 hp engine. Optional engine facility is also available for both trims. The rack and pinion steering control is quite impressive. The wheels are responsive and handling and stability come easily to any driver in this sedan. Safety features are very good and include airbags, engine immobilizer anti-theft, rear and front crumple zone. Saturn is looking to capture American markets with its dignified styling that will win praise for sure. The front wheel driven sedan is definitely a competitor for other midsize sedans in the market.
Engine: 3 out of 5….. good performance and mileage but nothing spectacular.
Transmission: 3 out of 5…. Standard and efficient 6 speed automatic transmission works for both the AURA trims.
Handling: 3 out of 5… good traction, brakes, steering and stability control.
Safety: 4 out of 5 … great safety features and excellent crash test performance for both trims.
Value 3 out of 5… Worth your money if you consider the comfort, fun and convenience in one safe family car.
Tech Specs
Body: available in two trims, the family sedan is a 4 door 5 passenger-seater car.
Engine: the XE has 2.4 liter 4 cylinder base engine while the XR comes as a v6, 3.6 liter engine
Transmission: both trims have a standard 6 speed easy automatic transmission with overdrive.
Torque: 251 at 3200 (ft-lbs): XR and 160 at 4500 (ft-lbs): XE
Power: 169 hp at 5900 rpm and 252 hp at 6300 rpm for XE and XR respectively.
Tires: 17-18 inch radial tires with front and rear disc brakes
Verdict: great performance and an affordable mid size car with easy handling and good safety. Definitely worth the cash.
For: safety and convenience are excellent in this particular model, in both the trims.
Against: interiors could have been much better in the XE model, though the XR is slightly better.
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