Saturn Aura 1373768 224922505 2008-07-11T00:44:42Z Chaparral2J 5925434 Adding new category {{Infobox Automobile |image = [[Image:2007-Saturn-Aura-XE.JPG|250px|2007 Saturn Aura XE]] |name = Saturn Aura |manufacturer = [[General Motors]] |parent_company = |aka = |production = 2007–present |predecessor = [[Saturn L-Series]] |platform = [[GM Epsilon platform]] |class = [[Mid-size]] |layout = [[FF layout]] |assembly = [[Kansas City, Kansas]] |body_style = 4-door [[sedan]] |engine = 2.4&nbsp;L ''[[belt alternator starter|BAS]]'' [[hybrid vehicle|hybrid]]<br />2.4 L ''[[GM Ecotec engine#LE5|LE5]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]]<br />3.5&nbsp;L ''[[GM High Value engine#LZ4|LZ4]]'' [[V6 engine|V6]]<br />3.6&nbsp;L ''[[GM High Feature engine#LY7|LY7]]'' V6 |transmission = 4-speed ''[[GM 4T65-E transmission|4T65-E]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]<br />6-speed ''[[GM 6T70 transmission|6T70]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]] |wheelbase = 112.3&nbsp;in (2850&nbsp;mm) |length = 190.9&nbsp;in (4850&nbsp;mm) |width = 70.3&nbsp;in (1785&nbsp;mm) |height = 57.6&nbsp;in (1465&nbsp;mm) |related = [[Opel Vectra]]<br />[[Chevrolet Malibu]]<br />[[Pontiac G6]]<br />[[Saab 9-3]]<br />[[Cadillac BLS]] |similar = [[Mercury Milan]]<br>[[Honda Accord]]<br />[[Volkswagen Passat]] }} The '''Saturn Aura''' is a [[mid-size car]] produced under the [[Saturn Corporation|Saturn]] brand of [[United States|American]] automaker [[General Motors]]. It debuted as a [[concept car]] at the [[North American International Auto Show]] in January 2005. The production model of the Aura was shown at the 2006 [[New York Auto Show]] in April, with production commencing in North America in the summer of 2006 for the 2007 model year. The Aura replaces the [[Saturn L-Series]], which was discontinued after the 2005 model year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2000-to-2005-saturn-l-series.htm|title=Saturn L-Series on Consumerguide.com|accessdate=2007-03-17}}</ref> Although Saturn had never intended to use the Aura name for the production vehicle, the name ended up sticking as a result of the popularity of the concept.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://media.gm.com/servlet/GatewayServlet?target=http://image.emerald.gm.com/gmnews/viewmonthlyreleasedetail.do?domain=3&docid=16976|title=Saturn Announces New "Outlook" for Future Portfolio: Also Confirms "Aura" Name|accessdate=2008-04-21}}</ref> The Aura is an important model for both Saturn and General Motors.<ref name = "Profit">[http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Columns/articleId=116831 Saturn is ready to turn a profit]</ref> It is part of a product rejuvenation for Saturn to make the firm profitable as well as competitive with European imports.<ref name = "Profit" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.saturnfans.com/Company/2007/thesaturnrevival.shtml|title=Rick Wagoner explains in this video what he has planned for the Saturn brand|accessdate=2007-03-17}}</ref> Reaction to the Aura has been positive, both in terms of reviews and sales.<ref name = "Dan" /> The concept used a 252&nbsp;hp (186&nbsp;kW) 3.6&nbsp;L [[V6]] and a new ''[[GM 6T70 transmission|6T70]]'' six-speed [[automatic transmission]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoblog.com/2005/01/07/detroit-auto-show-saturn-aura-concept/ |title=Saturn Aura concept auto show unveiling|work=autoblog.com|accessdate=2006-08-24}}</ref> That powertrain is offered in the production model known as the ''XR''. Also introduced is the 3.5&nbsp;L V6 with 219&nbsp;hp (163&nbsp;kW), down from 224 in 2007 in the ''XE'', and the [[hybrid vehicle|hybrid]] 164&nbsp;hp (122&nbsp;kW) 2.4&nbsp;L [[inline-4]], down from {{Convert|170|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}, in the ''Greenline''. The Aura, developed on the [[GM Epsilon platform]], is available only as a [[sedan]] and is built at the [[Kansas City, Kansas]], [[Fairfax Assembly]] plant. ==Design== ===Exterior=== [[Image:Saturn-Aura-rear.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Note that the rear of the Aura sits higher than the front.]] The Aura is a new styling direction for Saturn. All Aura models come standard with folding side mirrors and side marker lights, lending to its European stylings.<ref name = "Saturn" /> The design of the Aura Special appearance pieces include an integrated radio antenna in the rear window, a chrome appearance package available on XR models, standard 17 inch wheels with five-spoke wheel covers and P225/50R17 all-season tires on XE models, and standard 18 inch polished aluminum 14-spoke wheels on the XR with high-performance Goodyear Eagle LS2 P225/50R18 T tires. ===Interior=== [[Image:Saturn-Aura-interior.JPG|200px|thumb|left|2007 Saturn Aura XR Interior]] The interior of the Aura also marks a new interior direction for Saturn, moving to a more European-style interior. The design of the interior of the Aura differs from that of the Ion, which was highly criticized.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/saturn/ion/review.html|title=Saturn Ion review, Edmunds.com|accessdate=2007-03-17}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/apps/vdpcontainers/do/vdp/articleId=89620/pageNumber=1?synpartner=edmunds&pageurl=www.edmunds.com/used/2003/saturn/ion/100184118/roadtestarticle.html&articleId=89620|title=2003 Saturn Ion review|accessdate=2007-03-17}}</ref> On the upscale XR model, the interior comes with an option for saddle leather and paddle shifters, as well as an option for back seat radio controls.<ref name = "Saturn">[http://www.saturn.com/saturn/vehicles/aura/pricing.jsp Saturn Aura Pricing and options: Saturn.com]</ref> Despite being praised for its design and fit and finish, the Aura's interior has been criticized for using cheap materials.<ref name = "Automobile">Automobile Magazine: By Design, Robert Cumberford, December 2006 issue</ref><ref name = "CNN">[http://money.cnn.com/2006/10/02/autos/saturn_aura/index.htm?postversion=2006100417 Saturn Aura aims high, scores big. CNN Money]</ref> The Aura XR's standard features include: automatic climate control, remote vehicle start, [[Stabilitrak]] stability control, backseat audio controls, heated seats, six airbags, [[Anti-lock braking system|ABS]] four-wheel disc brakes, steering wheel audio controls, universal home remote, [[OnStar]] and a "Driver Information Center".<ref name = "Saturn" /> ==Models== ===Aura XR=== [[Image:2007-Saturn-Aura-XR.jpg|thumb|right|250px|2007 Saturn Aura XR]] The Aura XR is the top-line Aura model. The XR is fitted with the 3.6&nbsp;L [[DOHC]] V6 with VVT, rated at 252&nbsp;hp at 6200 rpm (188&nbsp;kW) and {{Auto ft.lbf|251|0}} of torque at 3100 rpm (340&nbsp;Nm). This engine was first used in the [[Cadillac CTS]] and marks its second use in a North American GM car. With this 3.6&nbsp;L engine, the Aura is the first [[front-wheel drive]] GM passenger car to use the new Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission.<ref name = "Equip" /> The transmission features TAPshift, which allows the driver to manually select gears by using paddles located behind the steering wheel.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.saturnfans.com/Cars/AURA/2007/auraxeequipment.shtml|title=Saturn Aura Standard and optional equipment|accessdate=2007-03-17}}</ref> The Aura XR is the performance-oriented version with a taut, but not harsh, suspension and the more powerful engine. Available interior colors in the XR are tan and grey leather (available in the XE), along with the XR-specific black or Morocco Brown leather. Cloth is standard. Other standard features include the Advanced Audio Package, 18 inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior door handles, and remote vehicle start.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.saturn.com/saturn/vehicles/aura/pricing.jsp|title=Saturn Aura equipment|accessdate=2008-02-05}}</ref> ===Aura XE=== [[Image:2007 Saturn Aura XE.jpg|250px|thumb|right|2007 Saturn Aura XE]] The base version is the Aura XE. Equipped with the 3.5&nbsp;L VVT V6 ([[GM High Value engine#LZ4|LZ4]]), the engine is matched with the 4T45-E four-speed automatic transmission. In the Aura, the engine produces 224&nbsp;hp (167&nbsp;kW) and 220&nbsp;lbf·ft of torque (298&nbsp;Nm).<ref name = "Equip">[http://www.leftlanenews.com/2007-saturn-aura-unveiled.html Saturn Aura unveiled]</ref> Traction Control, six airbags, V6, automatic, auto headlights, CD with AUX, 17 inch wheels, among other features, comes standard.<ref name = "Saturn" /> The Aura XE has a softer suspension, but still handles very well. A Special Edition version of the XE will include equipment upgrades, the option of the XR-only black or Morocco Brown leather, along with new, SE-only 18 inch machined alloy wheels. Beginning with the 2008 model, the 2.4 L [[GM Family II engine#LE5|LE5 Ecotec]] 4-cylinder will be available. Under the revised 2008 EPA fuel economy tests, this engine is rated at 22 miles per gallon (10.7 L/100km) in the city, and 30 miles per gallon (7.8 L/100km) on the highway.<ref>{{cite web | authorlink =http://www.eere.energy.gov/ | title =Fuel Economy | publisher =U.S. Department of Energy | url =http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/2008car1tablef.jsp?id=24397 | accessdate =2007-08-03}}</ref> ===Aura Green Line=== [[Image:AuraGreenLine.JPG|thumb|right|250px|2007 Saturn Aura Green Line]] The Aura Green Line is a [[mild hybrid]], following the [[Saturn Vue|Vue]] Green Line as the second vehicle in Saturn's lineup incorporating GM's [[belt alternator starter]] system. It rides on the XE's suspension.<ref name = "GCC"> [http://www.greencarcongress.com/2006/04/gm_saturn_aura_.html Green Car Congress: Saturn Aura Green Line]</ref> As in the Vue, the Aura Green Line is equipped with the 2.4L [[GM Family II engine|Ecotec]] engine mated to an electric motor/generator and the 4T45-E four-speed automatic transmission.<ref name = "GCC" /> This powertrain is rated at 164&nbsp;hp (122&nbsp;kW) and 159&nbsp;lbf·ft (215&nbsp;Nm) of torque. The electric motor/generator augments the gasoline engine during launch and under wide-open throttle.<ref name = "GCC" /> The Aura Green Line has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, which Saturn claims is up to a 30% improvement over the Aura XE.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://media.gm.com/servlet/GatewayServlet?target=http://image.emerald.gm.com/gmnews/viewmonthlyreleasedetail.do?domain=74&docid=34380|title=GM Media Online - Saturn Aura Green Line|accessdate=2007-03-20}}</ref> The Saturn Aura Green Line is eligible for a $1300 US Federal tax credit, as well as several state tax credits.<ref>[http://www.reuters.com/article/tnBasicIndustries-SP/idUSN1929812320070319 GM's Saturn Aura hybrid gets $1,300 tax credit |Reuters<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> It has been on sale since late March 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=120024|title=Saturn Announces Pricing on Aura Green Line Hybrid|accessdate=2007-03-26}}</ref> ==Engines== {| class=wikitable |- !Trim!!Engine!!Power!!Torque!!Transmission!!Fuel Mileage (2008) |- |Green Line||2.4&nbsp;L ''[[belt alternator starter|BAS]]'' [[hybrid vehicle|hybrid]]||164&nbsp;hp (124&nbsp;kW)||{{auto ftlbf|159}}||4-Speed ''[[GM 4T45-E transmission|4T45-E]]''||'''24''' city, '''32''' hwy, '''27''' comb |- |XE||2.4 L ''[[GM Ecotec engine#LE5|LE5]]'' I4||{{Convert|169|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}||{{auto ftlbf|160}}||4-speed ''[[GM 4T45-E transmission|4T45-E]]''||'''22''' city, '''30''' hwy, '''25''' comb |- |XE||3.5&nbsp;L ''[[GM High Value engine#LZ4|LZ4]]'' V6||219&nbsp;hp (162&nbsp;kW)||{{auto ftlbf|219}}||4-speed ''[[GM 4T45-E transmission|4T45-E]]''||'''18''' city, '''29''' hwy, '''22''' comb |- |XR||3.6&nbsp;L ''[[GM High Feature engine#LY7|LY7]]'' V6||252&nbsp;hp (186&nbsp;kW)||{{auto ftlbf|251}}||6-speed ''[[GM 6T70 transmission|6T70]]''||'''17''' city, '''26''' hwy, '''20''' comb |} ==Reception== Reception to the Aura has generally been positive. The Aura has been described as the best looking sedan to come out of GM in quite a while.<ref name = "Fuel">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPcxcJjzxDY Fuel Show review of the Saturn Aura]</ref> The Aura was also praised for its performance.<ref name = "Ann Job">[http://autos.msn.com/research/vip/job.aspx?year=2007&make=Saturn&model=Aura Ann Job review of the Saturn Aura. autos.msn.com]</ref><ref name = "Fuel" /> The Aura has been described as "the best Saturn yet",<ref name = "Dan">[http://autos.msn.com/research/vip/jedlicka.aspx?year=2007&make=Saturn&model=Aura Dan Jedlicka's reviews of the Saturn Aura]</ref> and fit and finish and ride quality are regarded as greatly improved over previous Saturns. Other improvements include reduced road noise, attributed to the fact that this model doesn't use polymer body panels like its predecessors.<ref name = "Ann Job" /> The Aura also garnered praise for its value, as it is noted that an Aura XE loaded up with certain options costs less than the standard MSRP of the [[Toyota Camry]] with a V6.<ref name = "Ann Job" /> The Aura finished fourth out of six places in a [[Car and Driver]] comparison test, ahead of the [[Chrysler Sebring]] and the [[Toyota Camry]], but fell behind the [[Honda Accord]].<ref name = "Car and Driver">[http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/12148/2007-chrysler-sebring-touring-vs-2007-honda-accord-se-vs-2007-kia-optima-ex-vs-2007-nissan-altima-25s-vs-2007-saturn-aura-xe-vs-2007-toyota-camry-le.html Familial Four Doors: Car and Driver mid size sedan comparison]</ref> Despite this, it was the best performing out of the cars compared.<ref name = "Car and Driver" /> The Aura also got praise for the craftsmanship of its interior and its European flair.<ref name = "connection">[http://www.thecarconnection.com/Vehicle_Reviews/Sedans_Coupes_and_Hatchbacks/2007_Saturn_Aura.S180.A10775.html The Car Connection: Saturn Aura review]</ref> The Aura also got a favorable review by Consumer Guide, with it being a recommended pick.<ref name = "Consumerguide">[http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2007-saturn-aura-1.htm Consumer Guide road test of the Saturn Aura]</ref> It also got more than favorable reviews from actual owners of the vehicle.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://autos.msn.com/research/userreviews/reviewlist.aspx?modelid=12079&trimid=-1|title=MSN autos user reviews: Saturn Aura|accessdate=2007-03-17}}</ref> Despite this, the Aura has a few criticisms. The Aura's interior has been criticized for using cheap materials.<ref name = "CNN" /><ref name = "Automobile" /><ref name = "Car and Driver" /> Also, the steering wheel has been criticized for being too big for some drivers<ref name = "Ann Job" /> and that rear headroom was tight when equipped with the optional sunroof.<ref name = "Consumerguide" /> The Aura was also criticized for being noisy over bumps<ref name = "CNN" /> and its lack of a rear armrest and head restraint,<ref name = "Ann Job" /> and that the push button controls on the steering wheel cannot be operated while holding the wheel.<ref name = "CNN" /> Robert Cumberford of [[Automobile Magazine]] claimed that the Aura is a good car watered down by GM's cost cutting department.<ref name = "Automobile" /> ===Awards=== The Aura won the [[North American Car of the Year]] prize for 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070107/FREE/70107002/1056/autoshows|title=One-two punch, GM sweeps North American awards|accessdate=2007-03-17}}</ref> As a result, Saturn sent a copy of the award to select customers who bought an Aura before it was awarded.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.saturnfans.com/Cars/AURA/2007/oscarauraad.shtml|title=Saturn Aura Academy Award ad|accessdate=2007-03-17}}</ref> The Aura also won Canadian's Motoring Television's 2007 car of the year award,<ref name = "Saturn Awards">[http://www.saturnfans.com/Cars/AURA/2007/auravotedbest.shtml Saturnfans.com: Saturn Aura awards]</ref> Motorweek's Driver's Choice for best new midsize sedan,<ref name = "Saturn Awards" /> and World of Wheels' Editor's choice for best family sedan.<ref name = "Saturn Awards" /> ==See also== *[[List of hybrid vehicles]] ==References== *{{cite web|url=http://www.saturn.com/saturn/vehicles/aura/overview.jsp|title=Saturn Aura official website|work=saturn.com|accessdate=2006-08-24}} *{{cite web|url=http://onlocation.consumerreports.org/new-york-auto-show/2-Model.asp?ID=190|title=Saturn Aura auto show unveiling|work=consumerreports.org|accessdate=2006-08-24}} ==Notes== <div class="references-small" style="-moz-column-count:2; column-count:2;"><references /></div> ==External links== {{commonscat}} * [http://www.saturn.com/saturn/vehicles/aura/overview.jsp Official Saturn Aura site] * [http://www.saturnfans.com/Cars/AURA/ Saturn Aura page at Saturnfans.com] * [http://2008aura.com/ Saturn Aura microsite with specs, photos and reviews] {{Saturn Corporation}} [[Category:Saturn vehicles|Aura]] [[Category:Front wheel drive vehicles]] [[Category:Mid-size cars]] [[Category:Sedans]] [[Category:2000s automobiles]] [[Category:Vehicles introduced in 2007]] [[Category:Hybrid vehicles]] [[Category:Goods manufactured in the United States]] [[ca:Saturn Aura]] [[es:Saturn Aura]] [[lt:Saturn Aura]] [[ja:サターン・オーラ]] [[pl:Saturn Aura]] [[pt:Saturn Aura]]