Good News For Saturn Fans: Talking About Diesel Power for US Astra

[Wolfe]

Now on to the Sky, that car is hot--even the base model. Is it basicaly a Vauxhall 220 or more Lotus Elise? I'd drive one of those if there is enough space for me.

The Sky is on the Kappa platform.

The Kappa architecture uses major components from nearly every GM division and modern platform:

* The rear axle and differential is from the Sigma Cadillac CTS
* The Solstice's interior storage bin is from the Y-body Cadillac XLR
* The passenger-side airbag, steering column, and exterior and interior door handles are from the Delta Chevrolet Cobalt
* The backup lights are from the GMT360 GMC Envoy
* The heating, ventilating, and air conditioning modules are from the Hummer H3
* The front fog lamp assembly is from the W-body Pontiac Grand Prix
* The steering wheel is from the Theta Pontiac Torrent
* The 2.4 L Ecotec engine is shared with the Delta Saturn Ion, Pontiac G6, Chevrolet Cobalt, and Chevrolet HHR
* The five-speed manual transmission is from the Hummer H3, GMC Canyon, and Chevrolet Colorado
* The five-speed automatic is from the Cadillac CTS, STS, and SRX

 

[YSSMAN]

The biggest test of the Aura is going to be wether or not Saturn, or be that GM can price the car compeditively with the rest of the vehicles in it's competition. GM had said in the past that part of Saturn's turnaround requires them to fill some of the "void" left by Oldsmobile, which leads me to belive that the Aura is meant to take on the Acura TSX and VW Jetta GLX.

 

[YSSMAN]

Breaking News:

General Motors has released another teaser of the 2007 Saturn Outlook via a number of advertisements. The image shows a front headlight and part of the grille. The automaker first released a teaser image of the crossover’s rear taillight last year. The car is based on the same architecture as the 2007 Buick Enclave. The car will be shown at the New York Auto Show, alongside the Saturn Aura, which was also previewed by a print ad. See both Outlook teasers after the jump…

 

[Firebird]

So? The Delta platform's development was led by Opel.

I don't know where you get your information: all of the basic design work on Delta was done at the GM Tech Center in Warren, Michigan.

Opel ended up doing a lot of their own engineering on Delta to make the Astra (which really is almost totally different from Ion and Cobalt; in fact, a lot closer to the previous Astra), but they didn't "lead development" by any means. (had they I suspect the Ion and Cobalt would have been better, especially the Cobalt: absolutely awful rear seating...)

And the GT's engine was designed by GM North America. The GT will be built in North America too.

Sorry, but the Ecotec's development was also led by Opel.

Sorry, but you're wrong. The Ecotec engines (that is to say, the most recent "Ecotec" engines based on the 2.2L version released in 2000 in the Saturn L-series, not the unrelated engines also badged as Ecotec by Opel) were designed concurrently in North America and Europe. The 2.4L featured in the Solstice, Sky, GT, Cobalt, Pursuit, Ion and HHR were wholly designed by GM Powertrain in Michigan, and most of the design work done to create the turbocharged 2.0L SIDI version was done there as well (this new 2.0L is the first of the "Generation II" Ecotecs, featuring a new, strengthened block based on the old one). The 2.0L version (including the turbocharged variant used in the 9-3 and several Opels) was done almost exclusively in Europe by Opel and Saab.

 

[Poverty]

The biggest test of the Aura is going to be wether or not Saturn, or be that GM can price the car compeditively with the rest of the vehicles in it's competition. GM had said in the past that part of Saturn's turnaround requires them to fill some of the "void" left by Oldsmobile, which leads me to belive that the Aura is meant to take on the Acura TSX and VW Jetta GLX.

Going by the vectra in europe I can tell you know it cant hold a candle to the TSX or jetta.

 

[TheCracker]

Going by the vectra in europe I can tell you know it cant hold a candle to the TSX or jetta.

Although the VXR spec Vectra does get some favourable write ups in the press. If Saturn base their hot version on the Euro VXR they'll have a winner on their hands.

 

[YSSMAN]

Ok folks, full write-ups on the Saturn lineup are out...

First The Saturn Sky Redline (Read Opel GT VXR):

Generals Motors has introduced the hot 2007 Saturn Sky Red Line. The new roadster was first previewed last week. This version “takes a strong-performing roadster and makes it a screamer,” said GM’s Bob Lutz. The car will be available at Saturn retailers this fall. The Red Line gets a boost in performance from an Ecotec turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, GM’s first direct injection offering in North America. It produces 260 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. of torque at 2500 rpm, making it GM’s highest specific output engine ever at 2.1 horsepower per cubic inch of displacement (130 hp / 97 kw per liter) and the most powerful engine in the Ecotec family.


The car will be available at Saturn retailers this fall. The Red Line gets a boost in performance from an Ecotec turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, GM’s first direct injection offering in North America. It produces 260 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. of torque at 2500 rpm, making it GM’s highest specific output engine ever at 2.1 horsepower per cubic inch of displacement (130 hp / 97 kw per liter) and the most powerful engine in the Ecotec family.

Gasoline direct injection technology helps the Ecotec engine produce more power while maintaining the lower fuel consumption of a small displacement port-injected engine.

With direct injection, fuel is delivered directly to the combustion chamber to create a more complete burn of the air/fuel mixture. Less fuel is required to produce the equivalent horsepower, especially at normal cruising speeds, of a conventional port-injection combustion system.

Direct injection technology works well with turbocharging and helps deliver a great balance of power and economy.

Other Red Line technical highlights include:

* Standard torque-sensing limited-slip differential
* Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control
* Performance-tuned suspension
* Technical elements also standard on the 2007 Sky roadster include:
* Four-wheel independent short/long arm suspension for optimal handling and stability
* Coil-over Bilstein monotube shocks for excellent wheel control and road isolation
* Hydraulically assisted rack-and-pinion power steering for quick, responsive vehicle control
* Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS for excellent stopping performance
* Wide track for excellent stability and superior handling
* Near 50/50 weight distribution for balanced handling
* Structural tunnel design and hydroformed longitudinal frame rails for a stiff body that results in greater vehicle responsiveness and better overall feel


The Red Line also features several unique interior and exterior differences compared to the Sky roadster, including dual exhaust with chrome polished outlets, 18-inch polished aluminum alloy wheels, and specific front lower fascia with large brake cooling vents and black headlamp bezels.

The interior features a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, unique seatback and floormat embroidery, metallic sill plates, stainless steel pedal covers, Red Line-specific gauges and a digital boost gauge included in the Driver Information Center.

The Sky Red Line has numerous safety features, including dual-stage frontal air bags, GM’s Passenger Sensing System, four-wheel disc brakes with standard ABS, side-impact door beams, three-point safety belts with pretentioners and load-limiting retractors, and more.

 

[YSSMAN]

Second, the all new Outlook:

Generals Motors has introduced its much-aniticipated Saturn Outlook SUV, which rides on the same platform as the Buick Enclave. Outlook offers seating for up to eight and combines the capability of an SUV with carlike driving characteristics. Powering the Outlook is the GM 3.6L V-6 VVT. The engine features variable valve timing, designed for high fuel economy, low emissions and exceptional smoothness. The uplevel XR model (with dual exhaust) provides an estimated 267 horsepower (199 kw) and 247 lb.-ft. of torque (335 Nm). The single-exhaust XE model is rated at an estimated 265 horsepower (198 kw) and 244 lb.-ft (331 Nm) of torque. The engine is backed by a new, fuel-saving Hydra-Matic 6T75 six-speed automatic transmission. Outlook is available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models.

Outlook can be configured for seven or eight passengers, including two front bucket seats, a 60/40-split second-row bench (three passengers) or two second-row captain’s chairs (two passengers) and a 60/40-split third-row bench seat (three passengers). Leather seating surfaces are available.

GM’s industry-first Smart Slide feature is standard on all second-row configurations, allowing quick and easy access to the third-row seating area. The second-row seat cushion flips up while the seatback slides forward, effectively compressing the space occupied by the seat. It operates with one hand and enables adjustable fore/aft positioning of the second-row seat. When adjusted rearward, the second-row seat provides more legroom for taller passengers; when adjusted forward, it provides more storage space.

Outlook also offers generous cargo room, including an estimated 116.9 cu. ft. (3310.6 L) when the second- and third-row seats are folded. In fact, Outlook even offers an estimated 19.7 cu. ft. (557.9 L) of cargo space behind third-row seat when it’s in its upright position – capacity many other SUVs and crossovers cannot come close to matching. Also, a covered rear cargo convenience center allows items to be stored out of sight beneath the rear cargo floor. In addition, Outlook’s second- and third-row seats fold flat for even more cargo-carrying capacity.

Outlook rides on a long, 118.9-inch (3020.7 mm) wheelbase and wide, 67.28-inch (1709 mm) front/rear tracks – a combination that enables an exceptionally smooth ride and stable handling. Sharp ride and handling reflexes also are supported by independent front and rear suspensions. The front suspension features a MacPherson strut design, with a direct-acting stabilizer bar. Isolated mounting points help reduce noise and vibration. The rear suspension uses a compact, state-of-the-art linked “H” design, which also has an isolated mounting system that reduces noise and vibration transmitted to the passenger compartment.

A strong body-frame integral structure is the foundation for Outlook’s responsive chassis systems. The structure is reinforced in numerous areas with high-strength steel, including a stiff steel cross-car beam welded across the floor between the B-pillars. It also uses dual-phase steel is select areas, such as the lower engine compartment rails.

I like this a lot. Das ist viele, viele, viele gut! Can anyone say Toyota on the inside? Lets hope they keep the prices somewhat low, because this definately has the potential to beat the snot out of the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot.

 

[YSSMAN]

And Finially the Aura (read Opel Vectra) which has been signifigantly upgraded for the US Saturn lineup:

General Motors has unveiled the 2007 Saturn Aura — a production version of the concept shown last year. Uplevel models feature GM’s first application of a new six-speed automatic transmission mated with the 3.6L DOHC V-6, creating a powerful yet fuel-efficient package. Later in the 2007 model year, Saturn will offer the Aura Green Line, a 2.4L Ecotec-based hybrid that will use a powertrain system similar to the Vue Green Line. It marks the first application of a hybrid powertrain in a GM passenger car. When it goes on sale late this summer, the Aura will be available in two trim levels: the entry XE model and uplevel XR. Each model is well-equipped, with premium features and interior materials among the best in its segment.

Additional design details include a radio antenna integrated in the rear window, for a sleeker overall appearance, and a chrome appearance for the door handles on XR models. Standard 17-inch wheels and tires fill the wheel houses, enhancing the vehicle’s sporty, firmly planted stance. XR models come with 18-inch polished, 14-spoke cast aluminum wheels and performance tires.

Aura is available in nine exterior colors: Berry Red, Black Onyx, Bronzed Pewter, Cream White, Golden Cashmere, Midnight Blue, Ocean Mist, Silver Pearl and Techno Grey

Aura’s interior features include:

* Automatic climate control
* Center console with dual-bin storage and automatic sliding tambour door covering front cupholders and storage area
* Driver information center
* Optional power-adjustable pedals
* Available eight-way power-adjustable driver seat
* Optional heated front seats, available in cloth or leather
* Universal home remote
* Power windows with driver express up and express down feature
* Steering wheel audio controls
* Four-panel sliding Panoramic roof


A wide range of audio systems also is available, all from GM’s new family of premium radios that feature intuitive controls and flush mounting for enhanced refinement. A six-speaker radio system is standard and includes an auxiliary input jack for portable audio players. Saturn’s Advanced Audio System also is available. It includes an AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio with eight-speaker sound, a 240-watt amplifier and rear-seat audio controls with two wireless headphones. XM Satellite Radio is available on all models.

Saturn offers two powertrains at launch that provide the Aura’s power and performance for a refined on-road feel. Standard on XE models is the 3.5L V-6 with variable valve timing (VVT). This powerplant, mated with the 4T45-E, four-speed automatic, generates 224 horsepower (167 kw) and 220 lb.-ft. of torque (298 Nm ). The 4T45-E is a four-speed, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive transaxle with an electronically controlled torque converter clutch noted for its low noise, high durability and smooth shifting.

Uplevel XR models are equipped with the 3.6L DOHC V-6 with VVT, rated at 252 horsepower (188 kw) and 251 lb.-ft. of torque (340 Nm). This engine is mated with the all-new Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission, the first application of this important addition to the GM Powertrain portfolio. The transmission allows for strong performance combined with strong fuel efficiency.

In addition, the 6T70 – GM’s first application of a front-wheel drive six-speed automatic transmission – will provide the added benefit of Driver Shift Control (DSC), which enables the driver to manually shift through gears via steering wheel-positioned “paddles.”

The Aura is built on a stiff, robust chassis that serves as the foundation for a satisfying driving experience. The vehicle’s long wheelbase provides a smooth ride, while careful tuning of the suspension provides sharp and immediate response to driver input.

It is, dare I say, the best American(ized) sedan that will be on the market? The combination of good looks, great packaging, and good mechanical bits and pieces should make this car worthy of that title. Screw the 300 or Charger, I want an Aura! Of course, the new Impala might change that...

 

[L8 Apex]

The Outlook, Aura and Sky all seem quite nice (by GM standards, anyway), but I still can't help thinking, "Why did they kill a brand with over a century of heritage (Oldsmobile) and put so much money and effort into the quirky, money pit par excellance brainchild of the Mighty Deranger himself, Roger Smith?" I mean, we all know axing Olds didn't put them back in the black... 🤬 👎

 

[Onikaze]

Company trying to turn it's image around.

Brand that has Old in it's name.

Brand that has always been fringeish and quirky.

What seems better to build on too hook a new generation of buyers?

I personally like the Aura, and think the Sky and Sky Redline are very very pretty cars, the SUV craps can die for all I care, but I'll not get into that again.

 

[JCE]

Wow dare I say it...these US-spec interiors on these 3 models are fantastic...and holy **** they are in GM products! Again let me profess my love for the new Sky redline and Aura XR models. You know what would be cool, if they release a Redline Aura with a Supercharger on that 3.6l powerplant...hello 300bhp 300C killing territory.

 

[ND4SPD]

Wow, saturn is starting to look real promising!

 

[Wolfe]

I can hardly believe my eyes!! Those cars......American? GM??

I don't know where you get your information: all of the basic design work on Delta was done at the GM Tech Center in Warren, Michigan.

Opel ended up doing a lot of their own engineering on Delta to make the Astra (which really is almost totally different from Ion and Cobalt; in fact, a lot closer to the previous Astra), but they didn't "lead development" by any means. (had they I suspect the Ion and Cobalt would have been better, especially the Cobalt: absolutely awful rear seating...)

The Delta was actually a cooperative effort between Opel and Detroit. That, combined with the fact that it is very similar to the previous-gen Astra platform, leads me to believe that the development was led by Opel. The Ion was horrible because GM's beancounters had a field day with it, but the Cobalt was defended from their cost-cutting wrath, which is why it turned out so much better.

Also, as of last year, total control of the Delta platform was passed over to GM Europe (Opel). If they didn't lead its development before, they do now.

Sorry, but you're wrong. The Ecotec engines (that is to say, the most recent "Ecotec" engines based on the 2.2L version released in 2000 in the Saturn L-series, not the unrelated engines also badged as Ecotec by Opel) were designed concurrently in North America and Europe. The 2.4L featured in the Solstice, Sky, GT, Cobalt, Pursuit, Ion and HHR were wholly designed by GM Powertrain in Michigan, and most of the design work done to create the turbocharged 2.0L SIDI version was done there as well (this new 2.0L is the first of the "Generation II" Ecotecs, featuring a new, strengthened block based on the old one). The 2.0L version (including the turbocharged variant used in the 9-3 and several Opels) was done almost exclusively in Europe by Opel and Saab.

Not quite. Other than Opel's Family 0 and Family 1 Ecotecs, and the GT engine, all Ecotec engines are based on GM's "Family II" engine design, which was developed jointly between Opel, GM Powertrain, Saab, and Lotus. The Family II series was designed for displacements ranging from 1.8L to 2.4L, and can be adapted as such. Different displacement does not imply different engine design.

The new direct-injection turbo Ecotec in the GT (called the LNF), was designed by Pontiac, yes. I was wrong. But the 2.4L is an ordinary Family II engine.

 

[Jay]

Holden has a big engine plant in Victoria Australia producing a large volume of Family II engines for export, so they go to Europe and comeback in a car.

 

[Slicks]

The interiors on all three of these cars, particularly the Aura and Sky, are so completely out of character for GM cars that I'm actually quite excited about these! They look... Good!!! Somebody certainly deserves a bonus this year for all the thought and design put into these. The colors look good, the materials (look) better, and they, quite frankly, look better to my eyes than alot of stuff on the market, be it American, Japanese, or German.

 

[Firebird]

The Delta was actually a cooperative effort between Opel and Detroit. That, combined with the fact that it is very similar to the previous-gen Astra platform, leads me to believe that the development was led by Opel.

It was a combined effort of Saturn (back in the day when Saturn had their own engineers) and Opel, while under the lead of GM North America's Small Car Group.

Like I said though, the basic design work was done at the Warren Tech Center by the Small Car Group.

Also, as of last year, total control of the Delta platform was passed over to GM Europe (Opel). If they didn't lead its development before, they do now.

This much is true, but it doesn't mean that by extension the Cobalt is an Opel as you originally suggested.

Not quite. Other than Opel's Family 0 and Family 1 Ecotecs, and the GT engine, all Ecotec engines are based on GM's "Family II" engine design, which was developed jointly between Opel, GM Powertrain, Saab, and Lotus. The Family II series was designed for displacements ranging from 1.8L to 2.4L, and can be adapted as such. Different displacement does not imply different engine design.

I specifically said basic design on the Family II Ecotecs was a joint effort.

But, in reality, honest to God, GM NA did the 2.2, 2.4 and turbo 2.0 SIDI, while GM Europe did the 2.0 and turbo 2.0 (and all of the "Ecotec" diesels, of course): GM NA had no input on the 2.0L version (save the supercharged version in the Cobalt SS and Ion Redline; why they even bothered with it I don't know, as they could have just as easily used the turbocharged version), GM Europe had no input on the 2.4L version.

Most of the 2.2 was designed in North America, but GM Europe has done their fair share of tweaking, like the direct injection version.

 

[Poverty]

GM europe also had its hands full making the 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, 1.6 and 1.8. And also the diesel engines.

The interiors on the sky is alright but it doesnt look right were the centre console is smooth and then surronded by cheap rough plastics which sticks out because of it.

The wood in the SUV looks crap though. Too shiny too fake.

The aura is alright.

They need to get the yellow off all the dials. It looks so tacky. Reminds me when my friend was thinking of getting a corsa some time ago, went into the dealers and he started goin on about how they have cool white dials, and all the boy racers like them. Those dials werent cool they were tacky ewww

 

[YSSMAN]

More Saturn News: The Saturn PreVue

The Saturn PreVue crossover concept – set to be revealed at the New York International Auto Show provides a glimpse of future Saturn vehicle designs — namely the Vue SUV. The three-door, four-wheel drive crossover offers a “sporty interpretation of Saturn’s new design language” and illustrates how it could be applied to a future version of Saturn’s highly successful Vue compact SUV, the company said. The PreVue was collaboratively developed with GM’s Opel brand and was seen as the Opel Antara GTC concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2005. The vehicle is part of the ongoing cooperation between the Saturn and Opel brands.

“There is significant synergy between Opel and Saturn,” said Jill Lajdziak, Saturn general manager. “Both brands play in similar market segments, have similar competitors and target similar customers in their respective regions.”

The current generation of Saturn’s Vue continues to be popular, with more than 350,000 vehicles sold since the vehicle debuted in 2002.

The PreVue “merges the seemingly contradictory design elements of a sporty coupe and a powerful SUV.” Coupe-like features include the two doors and tailgate, along with a side window design sans B-pillar and an elegantly sloping roof. These cues combine with SUV characteristics such as powerful side shoulders and wheel cutouts; steeply inclined windows; stable flanks and short overhangs for large approach and departure angles.

“The PreVue is sporty, aggressive and emotional, and fits in perfectly with Saturn’s brand character,” said Phil Zak, PreVue design director. “The result is a refined shape that conveys adventure and performance, even when stationary.”

Attention to detail is clear in the PreVue styling. In front, the crossover features a V-shaped brushed aluminum radiator grille, detailed, jewel-like headlamps and Saturn badging. The front and rear underside protection has been cut from solid aluminum, as has the edge protection strip in the luggage area.

In profile, frameless windows slope downward, accentuating its coupe-like silhouette, and louvers on the sides of the fenders fit into fine aluminum frames, much like the vents on the side of the engine hood and exhaust openings behind the doors.

An Everglade Mica green exterior features contrasting dark bumpers and bottom body strip. Inspiration for this body strip came from the soles of athletic shoes, and the pattern repeats on the accelerator and brake pedal surfaces.

Door handles retract flush with the body, and only slide out when the driver approaches the vehicle with a remote door opener.

On the roof, two silver strips flank the body-colored center strip, which separates two sunroofs and merges with the pantographic hinge that’s affixed to the tailgate. The innovative design moves up and forward when the tailgate opens – so drivers don’t have to step back when accessing the cargo area.

Front and rear headlamps consist of light-emitting diodes, which have a longer life and shorter response times than conventional lamps. The lamp units are smoothly integrated into the front fenders, and in the rear, they form a brilliant highlight in transition from side shoulder to rear.

Polished aluminum 20-inch wheels complete the package.

On the inside, generous use of warm tones and leather mix with carbon fiber seatbacks, as well as stainless steel and aluminum cockpit elements. Designers opted for a two-toned interior, with dark brown dominating the upper part of the instrument panel and door liners, with light beige lower areas, roof, seats and floors.

The panoramic roof system features two generously sized sunroofs for a bright, cheerful interior, with dark tinted glass protecting passengers from excessive sunlight. The center roof console, which runs the length of the vehicle, offers ample storage space. In addition, a specially designed leather storage bag can be moved along a rail between the front and rear seats, or removed for shopping or sightseeing.

The center console accommodates the transmission gear lever, which is ringed by brushed stainless steel; three large round glossy-black vents; and infotainment and HVAC controls, which are backlit in turquoise. The console incorporates handles at each side to accentuate the vehicle’s off-road character.

The instrument panel also is backlit in turquoise and encased in an aluminum housing. And instead of traditional carpeting, the floors are fitted with sisal, a ropelike natural fiber typically used in home interiors, for a stylish, durable look.

The four seats, mounted to monorails, appear to be floating atop the floor for a spacious, airy appearance. With the press of a button, the seats slide forward to the instrument panel so rear passengers can access the vehicle.

The rear seats fold away into the floor, and the sisal-lined cargo area can be folded flat up to the front seats, thanks to a moving double floor.

The PreVue is powered by a two-stage turbocharged 212-horsepower (156 kw) twin-turbo version of the Ecotec common-rail diesel engine. It features hefty torque at low engine speeds (295 lb.-ft. / 400 Nm @ 1400 rpm), and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The transversely installed four-cylinder engine features dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and variable turbo blade geometry.

Good news folks, this might be the new VUE. Knowing that it will be riding on the updated Theta architecture, this might not be too different from the Chevrolet CX3 thingy that will be sold in Europe and Asia.

 

[95GTIVR6]

Whoa, that is pretty cool looking.

But the last 2 dr. SUV thing like that we had here in the states flopped BIG TIME (vehi-cross). Maybe this one (if produced) will do better.

SORTA looks like a jacked up crossfire on steroids.

 

[Joey D]

Wow that owns the VUE.

 

[JCE]

Wow that owns the VUE.

Dude, ****ing seriously it does! This thing is brilliant. We now see where GM has put ALL of it's time and money--at least one GM program will excel...and that will be Saturn (did I just say that?). They REALLY need to build that SUV intact and only add a non-glowing instrument panel and 2 more doors and it would sell like hot cakes.

 

[YSSMAN]

I would expect to see the design cues move to the production version of the new Vue, but there will be four-doors unquestionably. I also doubt the production version will use the turbocharged I4.

 

[Joey D]

I would expect to see the design cues move to the production version of the new Vue, but there will be four-doors unquestionably. I also doubt the production version will use the turbocharged I4.

I bet the Redline version will be a turboed I4

 

[YSSMAN]

Pricing has been announced for the new Aura:

Saturn has reportedly told dealers the 2007 Aura sedan will start at just over $20,000. Retail price lists indicate the base 3.5-liter XE will start at $20,595, while the more powerful 3.6-liter XR version will start at $24,595. The XR model features GM’s first application of a front-wheel drive six-speed automatic transmission. In the coming months, Saturn is also expected to offer the Aura Green Line with a 2.4L Ecotec-based hybrid powertrain.

 

[Poverty]

bloody hell a 3.6 liter engine in a fwd car. Whats the output of that monster?

 

[GT Pro]

Now that is some seriously high-quality stuff.

I'm up for the revitalisation of Saturn, anyone else think it'll go forward and prosper?
The 'Sky' is also quite remarkable. GM have really put some effort into the design of these new vehicles.

And as for the new 'VUE' design, the interior is absolutely incredible

Keep it up!

 

[YSSMAN]

bloody hell a 3.6 liter engine in a fwd car. Whats the output of that monster?

The 3.6L DOHC VVT V6 puts down 252 BHP in the Aura, which is a bit different than what the Cadillac-spec models put down. The current version does 255 BHP in the CTS 3.6, and after recieving direct-injection, it should put down somewhere north of 260 BHP later this year, or early next.

For a front drive car that is hoping to compete with cars like the TSX (Euro Accord), and Audi A3/A4 2.0T, it sounds like it should offer quite a bit for a pretty good price.

 

[JCE]

I just noticed this...as in just noticed it JUST NOW...GM did away with the cool center exhausts of the Aura's concept model. I KNEW GM would find a way to screw it up in some way. Granted the rest of the exterior basically looks the same but those exhausts were so cool.

And $25k for a 252bhp cool looking saloon car with an interior that looks that good? I'd call it a winner. I'd still rather have a less powerful but better looking Fusion but that's my Ford bias and Ford d-plan talking.

 

[Poverty]

The 3.6L DOHC VVT V6 puts down 252 BHP in the Aura, which is a bit different than what the Cadillac-spec models put down. The current version does 255 BHP in the CTS 3.6, and after recieving direct-injection, it should put down somewhere north of 260 BHP later this year, or early next.

For a front drive car that is hoping to compete with cars like the TSX (Euro Accord), and Audi A3/A4 2.0T, it sounds like it should offer quite a bit for a pretty good price.

So your XR is our VXR equivelant, except that our version has a smaller engine but with the same power.