Overview & Reviews

The Saturn Outlook was one of the four "Lambda" crossover SUVs in GM's stable until the 2009 bankruptcy fiasco, when the Saturn brand met its end. Like the other Lambda vehicles, the Outlook packaged the eight-passenger seating, cavernous cargo capacity and carlike driving character of a minivan into the more fashionable shell of a full-size crossover SUV.

Compared to traditional body-on-frame full-size SUVs, the unibody Outlook provided advantages in terms of ride, handling and fuel economy. Its advantages continued inside, where an attractive interior boasted seating for up to eight passengers and more than 100 cubic feet of available cargo space.

The Outlook's large size limited its maneuverability and handling performance, though. As such, other three-row crossovers with slightly smaller dimensions proved more enjoyable to drive. But for families with large people-hauling or cargo-toting needs, the Outlook was one of the best crossover SUV choices, and it remains so as a used-car option.

Most Recent Saturn Outlook

Produced from 2007-'09, the Saturn Outlook was mechanically similar to the Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse and GMC Acadia crossover SUV family. Aside from styling, it was primarily differentiated with a lower price and lesser quality interior materials.

There were two trims, XE and XR. Included on the XE were alloy wheels, heated mirrors, power accessories, cruise control, front and rear climate controls, a CD/MP3 player with satellite radio (2009 only) and GM's OnStar service. The XR added dual exhaust, a power driver seat, a trip computer, steering-wheel audio controls, Bluetooth (2009 only) and wood trim.

Standard safety features on both models included antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags protecting all three rows. Among the options were xenon headlights, rear parking sensors, a power liftgate, keyless engine start, a navigation system (which received real-time traffic for '09), a back-up camera (2008-'09), a rear-seat DVD player, Bose audio ('09 only), leather seats and second-row captain's chairs that reduced seating to seven passengers.

All Outlooks were powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that initially made 270 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque (275 and 251 with the XR's dual exhaust). When direct injection was added for '09, those numbers went up to 281 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque (288 hp and 270 lb-ft in the XR). A six-speed automatic was the sole transmission, and all-wheel drive could be ordered in place of front-wheel drive on either model.

On the road, our editors found the Saturn Outlook to be a pleasant drive. GM's modern V6 gave the Outlook decent acceleration and fuel mileage, while the Outlook's unibody construction and all-independent suspension gave it ride smoothness and handling ability superior to GM's previous SUVs and vans. The six-speed automatic transmission could have been more responsive, and the near-5,000-pound curb weight was hefty even for this segment, but the Outlook's overall driving sophistication was definitely up to class standards.

Unlike many competitors in the crossover SUV field, the Saturn Outlook could accommodate adults in all three rows. Granted, comfort was only adequate in the third row, but the fact that grandparents could sit back there at all was a feat in this class. In addition, the Outlook's "Smart Slide" second-row seat feature was advantageous, as with the pull of one obvious lever, either of the captain's chairs (or 64/40-split bench halves) easily tilted, slid and sandwiched up against the first-row seats to ease access to the third row.

The Outlook's size also enabled it to swallow up to 117 cubic feet of cargo while most others take around 90. Despite subtle hints of interior cheapness and some buttons that are either too small or hard to find, the Outlook's dashboard was also among the more attractive in this segment.

For families seeking a truly functional alternative to a minivan or full-size, truck-based SUV, a used Saturn Outlook merits serious consideration. Those who'd rather go the new route should check out the related Acadia, Enclave or Traverse.

User Reviews:

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  Satisfied Owner - 2007 Saturn Outlook
  By John1096 - August 2 - 1:36 pm

  Its been two weeks and about 700 miles. This vehicle is a pleasure to drive. Mileage (mixed 50-50) is 19.0. Had some second row passengers and they commented "Why are you going so slow?" This was on a back road, 40 mhp limit, which I was doing and told them to their surprise. The Outlook soaked up the bumps and took turns with ease. The large isolated wheelbase contributes to the slow feeling. Yet the handling is solid. I would recommend this to the Highlander and Pilot seekers who may now be able to consider an American product in the fastest selling segment class of vehicle.

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  Engine Failed, the worst car ever - 2007 Saturn Outlook
  By mginsc - August 1 - 1:07 am

  This car fit the bill for a single mom who had to shuttle around kids to events, friends, trips, etc. Soon after purchase, I took the car in for repair after the check engine light came on. The timing chain was replaced under a recall. I was told that metal was in my oil because of it. Then my transmission began malfunctioning and it was the transmission control module. Then my power steering went out because of faulty design on the hose. Then oil was leaking into the throttle body so a gasket was replaced. After that final repair, I made it 3 miles down the road and my engine seized. Do not buy this car. I will never buy GM again. Ever.

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  Great alt. to minivans and huge SUVs - 2007 Saturn Outlook
  By Farmasis - July 27 - 6:00 am

  We love our Outlook. The styling and handling is superior to all other vehicles in our budget for our family. The seats are adequately comfortable. The versatility of up to 8 adult passengers, impressive engine and fuel economy is a welcome change to this market.

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  Love my Outlook - 2007 Saturn Outlook
  By SUV BUYER - May 5 - 7:46 pm

  Had a 2002 ford Explorer 6 cylinder. I feel this is a far better SUV. Getting better gas mileage with a much roomier car. And it has far better interior layout. The 3rd row seat is a dream to get into compared to other SUVs. I test drove I believe every car in this catagory. And found this to have the most practical layout inside.

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  Great Family Vehicle - 2007 Saturn Outlook
  By txsoldier94 - April 26 - 3:20 am

  The Outlook is a great vehicle for families. 8 Seats is large enough for most families and then some. It does not have as much interior cargo space as some of the other full-size SUVs, but it can still carry quite a bit. All-in-all a favorite in our family.

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  Disappointed In Wyoming - 2008 Saturn Outlook
  By Becky - April 25 - 8:23 pm

  Did a lot of research when buying my first new car. Looking for a reliable car to go on road trips. (loved my two used Suburbans I had previously) Poor gas mileage. Get 12 in town averaging 15 mph/19 on the highway 53 mph. Took it in twice- Mechanic says Im getting 16/22. It broke down out of state. Had to have computer replaced at 2000 miles. The passenger seat bottom had to be put back on. Cant get used to the small window in the rear hatch. Cant see distance to back up/park. Frustrating. Now I am anxious about going far from home for fear it will break down again. Defeated the whole purpose of a new car!

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  Love It! - 2007 Saturn Outlook
  By Leslie - April 18 - 6:56 am

  I shopped around at the Nissan Murano, Mazda CX-9, and several other vehicles. I think I drove them all! The Saturn Outlook was the best all around. Bigger than the Murano and better mpg. Seats are really comfortable and it is very affordable even with all the bells and whistles! I couldnt be happier. This one is a keeper!

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  Great Car! - 2007 Saturn Outlook
  By KCook - April 10 - 12:10 am

  We have had our Saturn XR for just over two weeks. We have just come back from a 2,800 mile trip with two of the grandkids. We could not be more pleased. The mileage on the road was almost 22 mpg with the car loaded down and the AC going the entire trip. No, it is not a powerhouse but I found that it has more than enough power to handle the mountains of Colorado and plenty of juice to pass without fear. The “manual shift" is activated by putting the gear into low. You then have the option to shift from first to sixth gear by pushing a clever thumb control up or down to handle mountain driving. We looked at everything and just could not resist the size, style and quality.

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  Love everything, Makes me want to drive - 2007 Saturn Outlook
  By KELNAQ - March 16 - 8:20 pm

  Impressed with the handling; recently had an emergency maneuver and couldnt get over how stable the vehicle was. No blind spots and I would suspect from something so large. All the seats are 1 touch to fold and move which is convenient. Quiet ride. Back seat comfy enough for me to ride in for a whole 12hr trip. Fuel econ has been great for me. 21.5 hwy mixed w/ some city. If just straight hwy usually 24. Cant expect too much mpg from a 3 row vehicle that has good acceleratn. Anyone having trouble w/ gas may be remote starting a lot(0 mpg), not resetting economy gauge when get gas, or bumper to bumper a lot. Last night I reset mine on the way home and at my driveway, 27.9 mpg. Love the style!

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  2008 Saturn Outlook XR 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cy - 2008 Saturn Outlook
  By Best ever! - March 14 - 5:20 pm

  The best and most comfortable, quiet car I have ever owned. We drive to Fl over 1500 miles, and I usually spend about eight hours behind the wheel! With this car I feel as though I could keep on driving all day and night. My only gripe is the gas mileage. I am hoping as I drive it more, that it gets better.