2009 Saturn Aura

The 2009 Saturn Aura lineup shuffles some trim levels and model names and adds some new features. This midsize sedan shares its basic design with the Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6, and Saab 9-3. Aura offers base XE, uplevel XR, and gas/electric Hybrid (formerly Green Line) models. XE and new-for-2009 XR 4-cylinder models have a 169-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. XR V6 models have a 252-hp 3.6-liter V6. All XE and XR Auras have a 6-speed automatic transmission. This transmission replaces a 4-speed automatic on 4-cylinder Auras. The XE V6 model with its 219-hp 3.5-liter engine has been discontinued.

The Aura Hybrid has a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that pairs with an electric motor for 164 hp total. This hybrid can shut off the gas engine at a stop, but it cannot run solely on electric power. It uses a 4-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, front side airbags, and GM's OnStar assistance. Leather upholstery with heated front seats is available, as is a sunroof. Newly available for 2009 is a wireless cell phone link.

Aura sedans use GM's current Epsilon architecture, already several years old. A redesigned Epsilon II platform will be used for Aura station wagons slated as 2010 or 2011 models. Sedans will eventually adopt that structure, too. Sources say the wagons will be built in Europe by GM's Opel subsidiary.

© Source: consumerguideauto
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2010 Saturn Aura Spied!

First we saw it in the south of France, then in Germany, later in the States, and now in Sweden: a prototype of the production version of Opel’s GTC Concept, which made its debut in Geneva in 2007.

By adding two doors to the concept, this becomes the next generation Opel Vectra, which is now known as the Insignia. Here in the States, we’ll likely be calling this the next generation Saturn Aura. And even under the busy camouflage, one can easily see that the front styling and overall feel of the design slightly mimics Opel’s GTC Concept, as well as Saturn’s new face.

These photos also include the first interior view of the new Aura, which shows a careful evolution of the current car’s cabin.

Based on the new Epsilon 2 platform, our sources are telling us that Opel’s version will go on sale in late 2008 as a 2009 model, but we may have to wait a bit longer here in the States to see the new sleek Saturn make its debut.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid Vehicle Overview

Introduction
Thomas Jefferson may object, but all hybrids are not created equal. They are each endowed by their creators with different unalienable capabilities, which affect emissions, fuel economy and the pursuit of green envy. The 2008 Saturn Aura Green Line wears a hybrid badge and features a gasoline-electric power plant, but its capabilities pale in comparison to other hybrid-labeled sedans. Acceleration, emissions and most importantly, fuel economy, are far below average. This Saturn is the cheapest sedan (not counting the Prius) to wear a hybrid badge, but like so much in life, you certainly get what you pay for.

To prove this, let's look at some cold facts. At the heart of the Aura Green Line (and its underwhelming performance) is an electric motor/generator that provides only 4 kilowatts of electric boost to the 164-horsepower four-cylinder engine. The motor is capable of motivating the Aura on electricity alone up to 3 mph, but it's mostly used to start the engine when it automatically shuts off at traffic lights and other stopping situations.

By comparison, the Camry Hybrid features a 30-kilowatt electric motor that can power the vehicle by itself under light acceleration to speeds of almost 30 mph. This difference is key in city driving and stop-and-go traffic, where the Camry and other "full" hybrids like the Prius and Nissan Altima Hybrid rely heavily on electric propulsion. The Aura's electric motor doesn't have enough juice to sufficiently boost acceleration or fuel economy, resulting in disappointing results for both.

Independent of its hybrid system, the Saturn Aura is an attractive family sedan that provides plenty of space, features and style. Its interior quality is a little hit or miss, but in general, most buyers will find it a pleasant way to get around. Sadly, most of the regular Aura's European-bred handling capabilities have been sapped out of the Green Line. Smaller wheels and tires can be blamed for this, along with the lifeless electric power steering (versus hydraulic) that makes driving it as much fun as taxation without representation.

© Source: edmunds
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