The 2008 Saturn Aura is a classy, mid-size family sedan that compares well to the best cars in the class, namely the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Aura combines European driving dynamics with contemporary styling and a nice interior. It's easy to drive and safe. The Aura XR is smooth and powerful with its V6, while the Aura XE gets an EPA-rated 22/30 mpg. The hybrid-powered Green Line is rated at 24/32 mpg yet delivers strong, responsive performance.
Model Line Overview
Model lineup:
Saturn Aura XE ($19,745); XR ($25,375); Green Line hybrid ($22,140)
Engines:
2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4; 219-hp 3.5-liter OHV 12-valve V6; 252-hp 3.6-liter DOHC 24-valve V6; 164-hp 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4 plus 4kW electric motor
Transmissions:
4-speed automatic; 6-speed automatic
Safety equipment (standard):
frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags for first and second rows; traction control, ABS
Safety equipment (optional):
electronic stability control
Basic warranty:
3 years/36,000
Assembled in:
Kansas City, Kansas
Specifications As Tested
Model tested (MSRP):
Saturn Aura XR ($25,375)
Standard equipment:
cloth upholstery, 8-way power adjustable driver seat, heated front seats, electronic climate control, 8-speaker sound system with in-dash 6CD/MP3, XM radio, cruise control, remote engine start, power windows, power locks, tilt/telescope steering wheel, universal garage door opener, trip computer, heated exterior mirrors with auto-dimming on driver's side, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror, fog lamps, 18-inch wheels
Options as tested (MSRP):
Enhanced Convenience Package ($425) includes a 6-way power passenger seat and power adjustable pedals; premium floor mats ($100);
Destination charge:
($650)
Gas guzzler tax:
N/A
Price as tested (MSRP):
$26,550
Layout:
front-wheel drive
Engine:
3.6-liter DOHC 24-valve V6
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
252 @ 6300
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
251 @ 3200
Transmission:
6-speed automatic
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
17/26 mpg
Wheelbase:
112.3 in.
Length/width/height:
190.0/70.3/57.6 in.
Track, f/r:
59.9/60.3 in.
Turning circle:
40.4 ft.
Seating capacity:
5
Head/hip/leg room, f:
39.4/53.0/42.2 in.
Head/hip/leg room, m:
N/A
Head/hip/leg room, r:
37.4/52.2/37.6 in.
Cargo volume:
14.9 cu. ft.
Payload:
N/A
Towing capacity:
1000 Lbs.
Suspension, f:
independent, MacPherson struts, L-shaped lower arms, coil springs, hydraulic shocks, anti-roll bar
Suspension, r:
independent, four-link, coil springs, hydraulic shocks, anti-roll bar
Ground clearance:
N/A
Curb weight:
3647 lbs.
Tires:
P225/50R18
Brakes, f/r:
vented disc/solid disc with ABS
Fuel capacity:
16.3 gal.
Unless otherwise indicated, specifications refer to test vehicle.
All prices are manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) effective as of December 19, 2007.
Prices do not include manufacturer's destination and delivery charges.
N/A: Information not available or not applicable.
Manufacturer Info Sources:
800-522-5000 -
www.Saturn.com
