2009 Saturn Aura Review

If you are in the market for a new quality midsized sedan, then you need to explore the 2009 Saturn Aura. It's uniquely modern and presents a breezy feeling of tastefulness. The German-based Opel platform gives it the driving feel of a European touring sedan. It feels solid and responds to the drivers commands very efficiently. The cabin is designed with class and style - everything is well-positioned and intentional. Fuel economy is able to be enhanced by opting for your choice of several available engines and drive trains.

The standard engine for the 2009 Aura is a 2.4L 4-cylinder that delivers a respectable 22/30 mpg. There is also an available 3.6L 252hp V6 that increases power and performance dramatically. Additionally, from Saturn's Green Line Series is a 2.4L V4 hybrid engine that delivers 24/32 mpg with the assistance of a 4 kW electric-driven motor. Notably, the then all-new Saturn was rated the North American car of the Year in 2007 by a group of 48 non-related auto reporting agencies.

All V6 models come standard with Saturn's StabiliTrak system which electronically controls the vehicle's stability while in motion. On the downside, the well-liked 4-panel sunroof has been discontinued. Other popular options include heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, remote starting, 18-inch alloy wheels, a universal garage door opener and climate control systems.

4-wheel anti-lock braking, dual front airbags, front side airbags, both front and rear curtain airbags, seat belt pretensioners and load limiters are all part of the 2009 Aura's safety package. The Aura is Saturn's largest sedan and it shares the same platform as the Saab 9-3 and the Opel Vectra. Front wheel driven, the Aura cruises along on top of a 112 -inch wheelbase. The view from the front is dominated by the stylish, wide grille and the ovular-shaped, multi-elemented headlamp conglomeration. Overall, the Aura from Saturn looks well-grounded and solid. Tail lamps that are mounted high dress up the rear end and above the tall bumper lives two long strands of LED braking lights.

Interior materials and design standards are tasteful and well-articulated. You definitely get a feeling of class when you enter the cockpit. The optional Moroccan-Brown leather upholstery is uniquely grained and presents an appreciable degree of added elegance. The telescopic, tilting steering wheel adjusts instantly and easily to any driver's preferences. The innovative extendable elbow rests are able to slide into the B-pillar for an additional 1.6 inches of arm comfort for taller drivers. Visibility is somewhat diminished through the high rear shelf.

The speedometer and tachometer are set deep and glow in an amber hue - very nice. Fuel efficiency is constantly monitored and reported, along with other trip information variables, on the Aura's trip computer display. Your ears will get fired up with the optional, 8-speaker, 240 watt AM/FM/CD/mp3/XM stereo system. One bummer is that the 2009 Aura offers no GPS-based NAV system, unlike the Infiniti M. However, OnStar is available and it does give turn-by-turn instructions for selected destinations. The MSRPs for the new Auras are moderate with the XE at $19,745; the XR at $23,375 and the Green Line Hybrid at $22,140.

Overall, the 2009 Saturn Aura is a classy ride that delivers power and dependability. The solid, planted feel will bring you pleasure as will the looks from those you pass by. These cars are for a more discerning crowd, but should not be thought of as anything less than truly sporty.