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By Saturn Company
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Strengths: |
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Ride and handling; interior comfort; upscale look and feel; strong performance in the XR model; fuel efficiency in the 4-cylinder and Green Line models. |
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Changes: |
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For 2009, the Saturn Aura has a few changes. The top-line XR model was V6 only in 2008, but a 2.4L 4-cylinder XR joins the Aura lineup. The 3.5L V6 engine in the Aura XR V6 has been replaced by a 3.6L V6 engine with variable valve timing, generating 252 hp. A 6-speed automatic transmission is standard on all XE and XR Auras. Bluetooth hands-free access is now standard on XR trim, and optional on the XE. New exterior colors include Quick Silver, Polar White, Gold Mist, and Silver Moss. |
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Value: |
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Now that the added luxury of the XR is available with the fuel-efficient 2.4L 4-cylinder, the 2009 Saturn Aura is an even better deal than before. It offers something for all types of sedan buyers and stands out as an especially sophisticated car that can be both sporty and frugal, depending on trim. In the Aura Green Line, buyers get an attractive--and attractively priced--hybrid, which means strong fuel efficiency in a modern, roomy sedan. |
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Overview: |
The 2009 Saturn Aura is offered in four different trims, each well equipped but with its own distinct features. At the low end of the price range is the Aura XE, which comes with a fuel-efficient 169-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder engine and new-for-2009 6-speed automatic transmission. The Aura XR 4-cylinder makes use of the same powertrain, but features much of the same interior equipment of the XR V6. The most luxurious model in the range is that XR V6, which features a 3.6L V6 with variable valve timing. It produces 252 hp and is fitted to a 6-speed automatic.
TAPShift paddle shifters come standard on all XE and XR Auras.
For eco-conscious buyers, there's the Green Line model, which combines a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine rated at 164 hp and a motor/generator hybrid system. The Aura Green Line utilizes a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Green Line model's hybrid system is a so-called "mild hybrid" system, which means it can't propel the vehicle on electric power alone, but the electric motor system helps the gasoline engine to operate more efficiently by boosting power and allowing it to shut off when idling and decelerating. The hybrid system saves energy lost in braking by storing it in an advanced nickel-metal-hydride battery.
With the 4-cylinder engine, the Aura XE achieves 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway in the EPA cycle; the Green Line does even better, with an estimated 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway.
The Aura has a distinct appearance inside and out, with LED taillamps that allow extra visibility and safety, detailed, jewel-like headlamps, and a radio antenna built into the rear window.
With a relatively long wheelbase and stiff chassis, the Aura provides a roomy interior and features a crisp, sporty handling suspension without sacrificing ride comfort.
Inside, too, the Aura is better detailed than would be expected from a value-priced, mid-size sedan. The gauge cluster uses amber-glow LEDs for instrument-panel lighting and a warm tone. All models include a Driver Information Center, with real-time fuel economy and other important vehicle status updates.
The Aura includes a long list of standard safety features, including four-wheel antilock disc brakes, front seat-mounted thorax air bags, and head-curtain side-impact air bags. StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on all Auras.
One year of OnStar service and a three-month trial service to XM satellite radio are included across the Aura lineup.
The XE model comes with tilt/telescoping steering with audio controls, a 60/40 split folding back seat, cruise control, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, and a 6-speaker CD/MP3 sound system.
The 4-cylinder XR adds many luxury features, including Bluetooth hands-free access, front heated seats, a power driver's seat and leather trim. The XR V6 adds automatic climate control, a universal garage door opener, fog lamps, and heated outside mirrors.
Options on the XE include the Preferred Package, which includes an 8-way power driver seat and Bluetooth phone integration. The Convenience Package includes remote start, heated front seats and heated power mirrors.
On the XR trim, the Convenience Package, includes remote start, heated front seats and heated power mirrors. |
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