2008 Saturn Aura Review reveals a stylish, affordable car.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

2008 Saturn Aura Review

The Aura is a midsize sedan that debuted in 2007. Heralding a new style for Saturn, the Aura features a European-inspired exterior taking some styling cues from the Sky Roadster. It shares a platform with the Pontiac G6. It was voted the 2007 "North American Car of the Year."

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Saturn Aura is a surprising entry from this once-forgotten GM offshoot. Stylish, roomy and capable, are three things that don't usually come to mind when we think of Saturn, but that's what the Aura has in spades. The biggest drawback is its lousy first-year reliability. Certainly, there are kinks to be worked out, but Aura is shaping up to be one of GM's best.

What's New For 2008:

The XE is now available with a four cylinder engine. Stability control is standard with the V6 XE. XM radio is now standard across the line.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D Power gives the Aura 3 stars for mechanical quality and 3.5 stars for performance and design. Problems with the Aura include failing power locks, inoperative convertible roofs, limited engine speed, transmission issues, nonfunctioning lights and power steering leaks. No recalls have been issued. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Aura earned perfect government crash test scores. IIHS ratings are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags and traction control come standard. Stability control is included with V6 models.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Smooth ride
+ European elegance
+ Perfect Safety Scores

Cons
- Disappointing reliability
- Pricier than the G6
- Some mediocre interior materials

Head-To-Head Competition:

The similar Pontiac G6 costs a couple thousand less, has equal performance and features, but has a bit less space. The Nissan Altima costs about a thousand less and includes brake assistance, but lacks traction control. The Volkswagen Passat costs about five thousand more, has about 30 more hp, a longer warranty and standard stability control.

What Others Are Saying:

"Even with a few minor weak points, the Saturn Aura offers a truly impressive amount of style, performance and refinement for the money. If you're shopping for a midsized sedan, this car really has to be on your list." - CNN

"Unlike recent GM offerings, the Saturn Aura isn't an improvement over its hapless predecessor; it's a competitive product. While the interior needs to benchmark the Accord's door skins more than Michael Jackson needs to refrain from plastic surgery, the Aura's driving dynamics outweigh its shit list. The world-class chassis and suspension tuning are proof positive that the Aura's design team did their homework. Like always? I don't think so. Like never before? Definitely. Enough to rescue the Saturn brand? Like, maybe." - The Truth About Cars

"Although its dashboard isn't loaded with electronics, the 2007 Saturn Aura is a solid sedan with a decent stereo and has navigation and hands-free calling offered through OnStar." - C|Net

Read more about the 2008 Saturn Aura at the Saturn manufacturer web site.

Published on Monday, December 10, 2007 - Email to a friend

Copyright 2006 BuyingAdvice.com, INC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.