Overview & Reviews

For years, Saturn built mundane cars that looked and felt -- for lack of a better word -- cheap. Its midsize family sedans were no exception. Not too long ago, rumors swirled regarding the demise of the brand. But the opposite has happened. General Motors has hooked Saturn up to the rejuvenation machine, and the brand is in the process of reinventing itself and moving upscale in style, performance and features.

The new Saturn Aura is a cornerstone of the Saturn turnaround. The euro-influenced Aura has a distinctly sporty edge in both design and performance. And after years of bringing up the rear in the midsize sedan market, Saturn finally has a true competitor.

Current Saturn Aura

Available in two trim levels -- XE and XR -- the Saturn Aura is one of the more distinct midsize sedans on the market. It is built on a stretched version of General Motors' "Epsilon" platform, and has a surprising amount of legroom in the rear seats.

In fact, there are many things that will surprise buyers, including the Saturn Aura's excellent design sensibility. The cabin is nicely styled with just the right amount of (faux) wood trim or metallic accents. And to show how far Saturn has come, there are two sunroof options, including a four-panel panoramic sunroof.

The attitude isn't just skin deep. Both Saturn Aura trim levels are equipped with strong V6 engines and sporty features and equipment. The XE trim comes with 17-inch wheels (alloy wheels are available as an option) and a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 224 hp. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard. Air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, StabiliTrak stability control, traction control and a six-speaker audio system with CD player and auxiliary input for digital music players also come standard.

The XR gets a more powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine, which bumps power up to 252 hp. The standard transmission is a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters, two words that you would never have thought could be associated with Saturn vehicles. But this is a different era for the company. Other standard features on the XR include 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, a power driver seat, heated front seats and a premium stereo with eight speakers and a six-CD changer. Interestingly enough, a navigation system is not available with the Aura, even as an option.

In reviews, our editors found the Saturn Aura matched up well with other cars in its class. In many areas, it runs at the front of the low-$20,000 midsize market. The pickup from both V6 engines is strong, but especially so in the 252-hp XR. The Aura offers a nice balance of tight, precise handling characteristics and comfort. The XR is even more of a treat to drive, thanks to its smooth, even power band and agile chassis. Steering is well weighted and road noise is low.

Our editors' one serious bit of criticism regards the XE's four-speed automatic tranny, which was found to be poorly suited to the base engine. The six-speed automatic in the Aura XR, however, is wonderful. Other complaints were limited to nitpicking interior fit and finish, a reminder that, while the Aura is miles ahead of previous Saturn offerings, there are still some things that could use more attention.

User Reviews:

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  Still going after 64K miles - 2008 Saturn Aura
  By burp - October 20 - 4:13 am

  We have 64K miles on our Aura. It has been in the shop a few times but GM is honoring the warranty. You just have to find the right shop. We were getting 27MPG until we put on new tires, now we are only getting 23. Try to replace the tires with the "low rolling resistance" models.

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  Is this a Saturn? - 2007 Saturn Aura
  By RON LANE - October 18 - 6:50 pm

  The people at Saturn got it totally right this time. I bought the XR model with Morrocan tan leather. It is very beauitful. Even some Lexsus owner friends of mine are jelous about the OnStar phone and service. This car has great get up and go and rides very smoothly. The manual to auto transmission shift is very cool. I am not sure but the gas mileage could be a little better. There are also a few appointments on the inside that could have been done just a bit better but for the price point, this car is an amazing value and a joy to drive.

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  The Best Car I Ever Drove - 2007 Saturn Aura
  By Tim - October 11 - 2:10 pm

  This is a low cost Cadillac. Drives like a dream. This is my 4th Saturn and if i could I would but another one. But now Im forced to buy a Ford.

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  Loaded XR - 2007 Saturn Aura
  By AS - October 8 - 11:03 pm

  I recently bought a fully loaded Aura XR. First and foremost, the car is very sexy looking. I bought the black on black leather all chromed out. Sitting on 18" rims, Yes, I said 18" rims, the car is definitely an eye catcher. The car has alot of pep and really moves. The car handles like a dream with a solid feel chassis. It really feels like a very exspensive luxury car when you take it for a drive.

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  2000 miles and love it! - 2008 Saturn Aura
  By dlb14frost - October 4 - 9:20 am

  I have had the Saturn for about 6 weeks now and have been quite pleased with all the features. Fuel economy is pretty good for a 6. Road noise is minimal. Heated seats and remote start are a nice add on. Heard several comments, Thats a Saturn? Wow

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  Former GM Engineer buys 1st GM car in 18 yrs - 2007 Saturn Aura
  By John Callister - September 29 - 3:50 pm

  All I can say is, Saturn is the future of GM, and this car seriously rocks. I thought the comments on this site were overblown. They are not. This car is excellent. My wife tried to talk me out of this and get a Honda CR-V. Well, now this is going to be her car, and I have to drive the 2006 Ford Explorer. When we get rid of the Ford 12 months from now, we will get another Saturn, either the Outlook or another Aura! This car handles better than my stepsons BMW 325i, and rides better. The handling is sharp, and the ride is firm but very comfortable. Front wheel drive. Big deal, it still rocks.

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  Great Vehicle - 2007 Saturn Aura
  By Joe - September 15 - 4:03 am

  I really like my 2007 Aura. The car is fun to drive and honestly, it feels like i am sitting in a much more expensive car. It performs great and has more than enough pick-up and despite many negative reviews, i like how the vehicle brakes. The car is very quiet, so much so that with out the radio on and doing 70 on the highway, i heard virtually nothing.

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  X-cellent XR - 2008 Saturn Aura
  By Glenn - August 26 - 7:20 am

  I went from a 02 Acura RL to a new 08 Aura XR which actually has more features and options than the RL or TL for a lot less money. I like the stance and handling of the XR on its 18" wheels. The performance is quick and responsive and I enjoy the paddle shift on the steering wheel. Its a bit tight to enter and exit but maybe thats just for me at 65" tall. The insulated glass makes for a very quiet ride.

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  Not all is perfect - 2007 Saturn Aura
  By award42 - August 26 - 6:26 am

  This is a great car. However, there are three areas worth consideration: 1) it is very difficult to pull out of the front seats while exiting the vehicle, (2) the front doors swing out so wide it is extremely difficult to reach the handle and close the door, 3) while backing out there is a major problem seeing what is behind you when you look over your right shoulder (blind spot between right rear window and back window).

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  Follow-Up To My Review On 4/11/2009 - 2007 Saturn Aura
  By Robert - August 25 - 4:06 pm

  Its 13 months later, and now I know that I cannot get another NEW Saturn ... I guess Ill just have to keep this one; right now, I"m OK with that. This car continues to prove its worth. My next one would have been Saturn #5. Im now approaching 50,000 miles, and have owned it 2 yrs, 11 days. Ive replaced the worn rear brake pads, and have machined the front disc brake rotors (due to intense pulsations when braking at higher speeds). The tires STILL HAVE 8/32" of tread, and they STILL drive nicely. Folks still compliment me on its looks ("Thats a Saturn ??"). The car is STILL a pleasure to drive! Next Car= Ford, Lincoln, Chevy SS, or Cadillac