Anyone check out the Saturn Aura?

[MrDisco]

I happened to take a look at the Saturn Aura on the GM website and was quite impressed by the feature sheet. The styling was quite appealing and I like the interior as well. Was wondering if anyone has taken a look in person and what their thoughts are on this car (american bashers need not apply)

[SkiD]

Haven't seen any "bad" reviews of the car, everyone seems to be impressed, although the XR trim is preferred over the base XE trim.

It's not class leading, but it is definately competitive with the '07 Camry (bad transmission, canary beak front end) and Accord (bland styling).

The price, for Canadians anyways, should have been under $30K for the XR, but they could be leaving room for the new Malibu coming out next year (based on the same platform).

[ninjadriver]

Heyya,

I bought a Saturn Aura XE just a couple weeks after the local dealer got one of each (XE and XR) on the lot, and in fact I couldn't wait for another one to come in so I got that same XE demo! :)

Mine comes with most of the packages (power & heated seats/pedals, etc etc), so it's likely somewhere between a base XE and an XR(?). And all of them come with a year of free OnStar which I *really* like.

But to cut to the chase... I love it. And I'd also strongly suggest anyone considering a car in that category to go and see one in person. I'd been waiting for the Aura for quite some time (my Saturn L100 lease was coming up) but was NOT impressed with the Aura's looks when I saw photos of it...

However when I pulled into the Saturn dealership and saw the dark berry red XE, I thought it looked pretty awesome. I also test drove it and a Hyundai Sonata and vastly preferred the Saturn, both for ride and for the interior (although the Hyundai does have some features the Saturn doesn't).

So I'd advise you take a look at the Aura and take it for a ride. It's been getting *very* good reviews on Business Week, CNN, and the Washington Post among others and I'd agree it's a winner. :)

Hope that helps!

[Evil Techie]

Saturn has been producing some nice cars lately, if i was looking into new cars, i wouldnt dismiss saturn

Vue Hybrid is out too i think

anyways
i think the Aura looks great

[eelfliw]

As a current SL owner, I went to test drive the Aura. Here's what I see :

- Aura is a heavy car compared to the SL. I wouldn't want to toss it around too much. But suspension is relatively firm and should be pretty predictable if you take around a race track.
- Very quiet. Double layered side windows and lots of sound proofing in the firewall.
- sunroof is cool.
- Sheet metal body panels. Fits better than polymer and much quieter than SL. But the fit still isn't as good as, say, the Cadillacs (uneven gaps).
- Nice power (better than the SL, definitely). The XR engine, though only rated 27 more horesepowers, feels a lot more powerful because the torque curve is wider (you can feel it kicking in) and 6-speed transmission helps.
- Stock stereo is average.
- physically, the car is much larger than SL. But most of the space went to the rear seats. Front seat space doesn't feel much larger than SL. Trunk is huge. But tail lights are in the way so the actual opening is rather narrow.
- if you work on your car, the Aura is not your car. The transverse V6 makes changing spark plugs a major pain. Even the front 3 cylinders are difficult to get to without removing many pieces.
- bad mileage - compared to SL. I'm getting 50mpg (5.6L/100KM) on the SL. But Saturn rates Aura 7.2L/100KM highway.

Overall, I would go for the Aura if I don't work on my car and I didn't drive as much as I do now. Rate of depreciation remains to be seen. The L series Saturns and Saab had really high depreciation rate.

Another competitor to the Aura is the Buick Allure with the Buick Quiet Tuning. But it's older technology (W body with 3.8L V6). If one never opens the hood, they wouldn't know.

[MrDisco]

well i went and saw it today and i was very impressed. the exterior styling appeals to me (love the tail lamps). the interior wasn't bad either, though at first i found the cloth used for the seats a bit odd to the touch. this was the XR trim so it had all the goodies and came in a fantastic dark blue shade. The dash is nice and clean, the audio has that great aux input and the instrument gauges are quite modern looking. Having seen it my nitpicks are:

-cheap(er) plastic used for the arm rest and door panel insert. A bit of of softer plastic or cushioning might have helped
-very gimicky cover for the cup holders. i imagine most people will just leave it open (i can see the cover catching all sorts of dust and dirt over time)
-cheap(er) plastic used for the steering wheel buttons. i could plainly see the plastic housing flex when you pressed the (tiny) buttons.
-no locking glove box. a clear sign of cost-cutting by the bean counters
-it was a bit drab. this model had the 'metal' accent instead of the woodgrain and combined with the black interior didn't do a whole lot to jazz up the place.
-i found the seats to be slightly too narrow. also rear leg room wasn't all that great for anyone who had the misfortune of sitting behind me. also odd was that the rear seats do not have a foldable arm rest
-smallish trunk. compared to the competition the trunk appeared small to me, particularly with useable height available.

of course these are just nitpicks and nothing to write home about as all cars have their issues. My biggest complaint however is the door entry. i'm 6'1 and the ingress and egress was terrible. I kept hitting my head on the door frame if I didn't remeber to duck and contort my body. Not. Good. I just know I'ld be swearing everytime I had to get in or out of the car if i were in a hurry :(

Unfortunately as much as I love the Aura on paper and all the features it has this is the deal breaker for me :( I was really hoping to love this car too. I went and tried its stablemate the G6 and found much of the same issues (if not worse - the Pontiac just isn't as good as the Saturn for interior styling imo).

The only other car in GM's lineup which I really do like is the Impala. Nice big entry, very smooth quiet ride, and it has similar feature sets (though of course w/o the 6speed auto and a different engine lineup). The drawback is it's an Impala which isn't exactly going to raise your hearbeat in the excitement area :P (yes I know there's the SS but that's way out of my budget)

Looks like I'm going to be a Sonata man after all :)

[Evil Techie]

well i went and saw it today and i was very impressed. the exterior styling appeals to me (love the tail lamps). the interior wasn't bad either, though at first i found the cloth used for the seats a bit odd to the touch. this was the XR trim so it had all the goodies and came in a fantastic dark blue shade. The dash is nice and clean, the audio has that great aux input and the instrument gauges are quite modern looking. Having seen it my nitpicks are:

-cheap(er) plastic used for the arm rest and door panel insert. A bit of of softer plastic or cushioning might have helped
-very gimicky cover for the cup holders. i imagine most people will just leave it open (i can see the cover catching all sorts of dust and dirt over time)
-cheap(er) plastic used for the steering wheel buttons. i could plainly see the plastic housing flex when you pressed the (tiny) buttons.
-no locking glove box. a clear sign of cost-cutting by the bean counters
-it was a bit drab. this model had the 'metal' accent instead of the woodgrain and combined with the black interior didn't do a whole lot to jazz up the place.
-i found the seats to be slightly too narrow. also rear leg room wasn't all that great for anyone who had the misfortune of sitting behind me. also odd was that the rear seats do not have a foldable arm rest
-smallish trunk. compared to the competition the trunk appeared small to me, particularly with useable height available.

of course these are just nitpicks and nothing to write home about as all cars have their issues. My biggest complaint however is the door entry. i'm 6'1 and the ingress and egress was terrible. I kept hitting my head on the door frame if I didn't remeber to duck and contort my body. Not. Good. I just know I'ld be swearing everytime I had to get in or out of the car if i were in a hurry :(

Unfortunately as much as I love the Aura on paper and all the features it has this is the deal breaker for me :( I was really hoping to love this car too. I went and tried its stablemate the G6 and found much of the same issues (if not worse - the Pontiac just isn't as good as the Saturn for interior styling imo).

The only other car in GM's lineup which I really do like is the Impala. Nice big entry, very smooth quiet ride, and it has similar feature sets (though of course w/o the 6speed auto and a different engine lineup). The drawback is it's an Impala which isn't exactly going to raise your hearbeat in the excitement area :P (yes I know there's the SS but that's way out of my budget)

Looks like I'm going to be a Sonata man after all :)

nice review
looks like uve looked into it very thoroughly
and a good pick on the sonata, one of the best bang for the buck car around

Azera looks like a very nice car too but probably not in the range u want

[VivienM]

Another competitor to the Aura is the Buick Allure with the Buick Quiet Tuning. But it's older technology (W body with 3.8L V6). If one never opens the hood, they wouldn't know.

You can get an Allure with the same 3.6L HF V6 as the Aura... but with a 4 speed transmission (same fuel economy ratings, though, IIRC) and 240HP instead of 252.

[MrDisco]

Azera looks like a very nice car too but probably not in the range u want

i love the Azera interior. as large as a 7 series bmw, great gauges, and that psuedo luxury which is just fun to be in. the exterior is admittedly quite bland and not reflective of this car. nice big engine, gimmicks like rear sun shades, and all the other toys. unfortunately that one pushes $35k which a good chunk of change.

[gheart008]

here's some pics for the lazy:

http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/thumb/f/ff/250px-Saturn-Aura-Concept-'05.jpg

http://www.autointell.com/Events/naias-2005/saturn-aura-naias-05/aura-X05CC_ST019-250-160.jpg

http://www.canadiandriver.com/news/05detroit/images/aura_3-1.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/50/127593399_4c0f010088_m.jpg

http://img357.imageshack.us/img357/8156/aura24rv.jpg

http://img357.imageshack.us/img357/7880/aura39tn.jpg

[ninjadriver]

Saturn XE owner here again to reply to some of the above comments... :)

eelfliw wrote:
> As a current SL owner, I went to test drive the Aura...

Oh yeah - didn't mention it earlier, but I also leased a Saturn SL1 before my L100 so although I'm not a rabid Saturn lover it's worth mentioning that I *am *a repeat customer (the Aura XE is my 3rd). :)

>Aura is a heavy car compared to the SL. I wouldn't want to toss it around too much. But suspension is relatively firm and should be pretty predictable if you take around a race track.<

I was surprised when I saw the weight stats for the Aura. It's even heavier than the L100, which is bigger than my SL1, but you're right - it does hold the corners pretty good. Many have classified it as a 'sporty sedan' as opposed to an outright 'sports sedan' and it's fun to drive.

>Very quiet. Double layered side windows and lots of sound proofing in the firewall.<

The Aura has something like 22 (or so..?) different sound dampening features and it is indeed quite quiet at highway speed. And around town all I really hear is the tires on the road - not much in the way of wind noise at most any legal speed.
And check out under the hood. The engine has a heavy black covering over it (looks like thick plastic but likely isn't) and there's additional sound dampening material on the bottom of the hood itself.

>Sheet metal body panels. Fits better than polymer and much quieter
>than SL. But the fit still isn't as good as, say, the Cadillacs (uneven gaps).

Yeah, they're moving away from the plastic siding with the new Saturns in part due to the fact older Saturns got criticized for the larger panel gaps - which were necessary because plastic swells and shrinks quite a bit between extreme cold and hot temperatures over the year.

I haven't noticed any uneven gaps in my XE, but didn't scrutinize it with a tape measure either so who knows. :) Nothing obvious anyway.

>Nice power (better than the SL, definitely). The XR engine, though only rated 27 more horesepowers, feels a lot more powerful because the torque curve is wider (you can feel it kicking in) and 6-speed transmission helps.<

True dat. My XE has only a 4-speed but I'm use to that since the L100 (and SL1?) are the same. But that extra HP and 6-speed transmission indeed makes a difference for the XR which has the same engine as the Cadillac CTS, iirc.

>Stock stereo is average.

But a heck of a lot nicer than what I got in my Sl1 and L100! ;)

>Front seat space doesn't feel much larger than SL.

With the seat all the way back it's def. further between me and the dash compared to my L100 - I purposely did an arm stretch in the L100 with the seat all the way back before getting into the Aura, and the Aura beats it by more than an inch or so. Unless you mean the actual seat dimensions itself... (see below)

>Trunk is huge. But tail lights are in the way so the actual opening is rather narrow.<

Some people did knitpick the trunk opening and the fact the bottom is a bit higher than other models. It hasn't bother me yet although I've only stuck some supplies back there (side netting is nice) and did a grocery trip or two.

The taillights (brake lights?) are LED on the Aura. I thought that was just for esthetic reasons but apparently it's a safety feature too - I guess LEDs light up immediately vs relatively slower bulbs. The difference would certainly be less than a second from off to full brightness, but I guess every millisecond counts when the guy behind you is doing 130 kph o so.

> bad mileage - compared to SL. I'm getting 50mpg (5.6L/100KM) on the SL. But Saturn rates Aura 7.2L/100KM highway.<

50 mpg on the SL is pretty damn good, methinks! I'm reading Prius owners claiming only 50 mpg average or best case scenarios. But the SL is def. a smaller car with a 4 cylinder engine vs the larger (in ever respect) 6 cylinder Auras, so no doubt will get better mileage....

The XE has recently been updated to 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, which is apparently QUITE decent for a 6 cylinder. The XR is within about 1 mpg of that (maybe 20 and 28 respective..?).

>Rate of depreciation remains to be seen. The L series Saturns and Saab had really high depreciation rate.<

The earlier Saturns weren't all that popular for various reasons (great service but mediocre and uninspiring designs). However if the Aura takes off like they think it will - and media reviews seem to indicate - then depreciation may be quite improved over the SLs and L series.

But I'm leasing my Aura so I could give a rat's patoot about depreciation anyway. LOL

---

MrDisco wrote:

>the audio has that great aux input

It's nice that I can now play MP3s right off the CD and also be able to plug an MP3 player into the aux jack. (vs my previous cars).


>Having seen it my nitpicks are:
>cheap(er) plastic used for the arm rest and door panel insert. A bit of of softer plastic or cushioning might have helped<

I agree and that is probably the most common knitpick I've seen. Dunno what they were thinking with that - but it's not horrible and certainly won't be a deal breaker for buyers interested in a car of this price class.

>very gimicky cover for the cup holders. i imagine most people will just leave it open <

I do leave mine open, but it's nice to have the option of closing it up. If someone doesn't use their cupholders it'd likely stay shut.

>it was a bit drab. this model had the 'metal' accent instead of the woodgrain and combined with the black interior didn't do a whole lot to jazz up the place.<

My seats etc are light grey, so there's some contrast with the dash and general interior. Having seen both, I prefer the more modern grey w. metal accents over the woodgrain option.
But check out the Sonata's dash... I'd hazard to guess the majority of people would vastly prefer the Aura's.

> i found the seats to be slightly too narrow.

I initially thought that too, compared to my former vehicle, but it gets more comfortable fast. Plus the narrowness is due to the slightly bevelled up sides which are intended to hold you in the seat better as you launch through corners fast enough to roll down your socks and fire off a hubcap or two. ;)

> also rear leg room wasn't all that great for anyone who had the misfortune of sitting behind me.<

The Auras do have "indented" backs on their front seats, which slightly increases leg room for those sitting in the rear. The issue of leg room back there isn't any worse (and is likely better) than I had in my L100 and would likely be the same for any car in this class (?).

> also odd was that the rear seats do not have a foldable arm rest

Yes, that would have been nice and I hope they add it in future Auras -the Sonata I test drove had a center armrest with cupholders in it. However I've seen others comment that center armrests make it so a 5th passenger sitting in the middle has a less comfortable seat backing (where the armrest is folded up)... dunno for sure and may vary from model to model.

>smallish trunk. compared to the competition the trunk appeared small to me, particularly with useable height available.<

The dimensions are a bit smaller than the cavernous Sonata trunk for instance, and even a bit smaller than my L100 I think. But it's still plenty big and the rear seats fold down for extra room - plus the rear seats are backed with a hard covering to protect them.

>My biggest complaint however is the door entry. i'm 6'1 and the ingress and egress was terrible. I kept hitting my head on the door frame if I didn't remeber to duck and contort my body.<

I'm 6' when I stand up straight (like my mom use to tell me to <G>), and don't recall if I noticed that or not when I first test drove the Aura. I believe I did notice entry was different than my L100, but either way got use to it very quick and haven't noticed any problems since.
Maybe the power seat was in the highest position on the model you tried? Lowering it would open up a few inches or so.

>Looks like I'm going to be a Sonata man after all

Best of luck with the Sonata. It certainly gets great ratings for safety etc and has the best warranty in its class, afaik. Having driven both, I still prefer the Aura, but anyone interested in this class should def. test driver both these models. (and note the Aura just got a perfect 5 star front crash rating - now waiting for side impact tests for the two types of side impact bags in the Aura)

And that's my 2 cents! :)

[MrDisco]

But check out the Sonata's dash... I'd hazard to guess the majority of people would vastly prefer the Aura's.


not much of an argument there. i freely admit the sonata's dash is good, but its not great. the green lcds used are my biggest complaint as with the green lighting used for the instrument cluster. the rest of the dash however is pretty similar to the Aura and i think the hyundai 'metal' trim has a nicer look over the Aura's.


I initially thought that too, compared to my former vehicle, but it gets more comfortable fast. Plus the narrowness is due to the slightly bevelled up sides which are intended to hold you in the seat better as you launch through corners fast enough to roll down your socks and fire off a hubcap or two. ;)


well this isn't a fair nitpick to be truthful. as a fat guy its my own fault for not finding the seats comfortable. i'm sure other normal people would love them. i'm more used to the flatter seats found in a buick or caddy.


The Auras do have "indented" backs on their front seats, which slightly increases leg room for those sitting in the rear. The issue of leg room back there isn't any worse (and is likely better) than I had in my L100 and would likely be the same for any car in this class (?).


yeah i noticed the scallop in the font seats. what i did was positioned the driver seat to where i was comfortable, then went back and sat in the rear seat. anyone who is 6'0+ will fit, but they're not going to want to stay there for very long.
in terms of dimensions the sonata is bigger in every metric aside from overall length and wheel base. its on this point that i was disappointed GM couldn't squeeze more mm out of the interior volume.


However I've seen others comment that center armrests make it so a 5th passenger sitting in the middle has a less comfortable seat backing (where the armrest is folded up)... dunno for sure and may vary from model to model.


true, however i am not a believer in middle row passengers (front or back). i don't have any scientific proof, but my own bias is that no one should be sitting in those middle seats.


The dimensions are a bit smaller than the cavernous Sonata trunk for instance, and even a bit smaller than my L100 I think. But it's still plenty big and the rear seats fold down for extra room - plus the rear seats are backed with a hard covering to protect them.


Yes I did notice the plastic backing on the rear seats when I peeked in the trunk area. It's a nice touch. However the volume is on the low end in this segment (maybe on par or better than the accord, but certaintly less than the camry or soanta). My bigger nitpick is the opening to the trunk area is quite narrow (maybe not the best word to use..i can't really describe my immediate impression). you can definitely see how the epislon chasis narrower dimensions have an impact on the trunk volume.



Maybe the power seat was in the highest position on the model you tried? Lowering it would open up a few inches or so.


No that was the first thing I did was to place the seat in its lowest position and with a slight recline. Either way right off the bat I hit my head going in, and the headliner on the door frame on the way out. i've tried a number of models on the market and this was the first time where i actually hit my head :'(


these models. (and note the Aura just got a perfect 5 star front crash rating - now waiting for side impact tests for the two types of side impact bags in the Aura)


yeah going by the nhtsa both cars have 5 star ratings for frontal, and i believe they've done the side testings as well.

anyone in this market should check out the aura - its a great model that deserves a look.

[frogger]

National Post reviewer called the XR "definitely the class of the class", including Accord, Camry and Mazda 6. As well as the best handling FWD midsize sedan he's tested.
http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/news/driving/story.html?id=51ab66e3-87bd-4d6e-abe1-957453b083d4

[sixer]

No, it's a Saturn, I'd buy a Ford before I bought a Saturn

[Evil Techie]

wow the gauges are a straight lift off my GS300
hehe

the centre console is a bit excessive use of wood IMO

[ar_ken]

No, it's a Saturn, I'd buy a Ford before I bought a Saturn

That's a pretty educated and informed statement. Thanks for coming out.

[ar_ken]

wow the gauges are a straight lift off my GS300
hehe

the centre console is a bit excessive use of wood IMO

Yeh I think so too. I think just grey plastic or piano black trim would fit better for that interior.

[MrDisco]

the centre console is a bit excessive use of wood IMO

there is also a metal trim option which changes the look quite a bit. also the photos really exagerate the colouring (or aka it looks better in person).

not even going to mention how useless that other comment was for the purposes of this thread <_<

So today I had time to kill and went to the automall in woodbridge. i first checked out the sonata to get another fresh look and for another test drive. I was reminded by the sheer value, the immense improvement in fit/finish and material quality over previous hyundai's, and how i was generally satisfied with the styling and interior comfort. the ride was smooth and quiet, albeit a little on the floaty side (then again it was only a 10 min. drive around the block so i don't know how it performs on the highway).

i then popped by the saturn dealership who was next door to take a more detailed look at the Aura, only this time the base XE model. Again I right away confirmed that the door opening is smaller making me contort my body somewhat to get in. the seats were pretty good and i did get used to after sitting in the vehicle for 10-15min while i chatted with the sales rep. the dash is so much better than the sonata in that the instrument gauges are gorgeous (almost as good as an accord imo, though not there yet). the new delco radio system is quite cool with more functionality and legibility vs the green lcds used in the hyundai. the 6 speakers are decent and adequate for my untrained ear.

The sales rep was a nice guy who chatted away about the car's features and offered to take it for a test drive on the highway. i can indeed confirm that this is one quiet vehicle (you can even see the double glass panels bonded together used in the front driver/passenger windows and the windshield). The base model comes with a 3.5 OHV VVTi engine mated to the corporate 4 speed. pickup power was adequate with a smooth feel at cruising speeds. steering and suspension was indeed much firmer than the sonata and the wheel (non-leather) had a nice meaty grip. suprisingly they went with an electric steering setup vs conventional hydraulics in an effort to reduce weight and improve fuel economy (the sonata, on paper, is more efficient than the aura xe).

so this leaves me with a decision to make as i was quite impressed by the aura xe. on the plus side:
-superior instrument cluster
-better looking radio panel
-full featured steering wheel controls
-stiffer suspension setup
-side marker lamps and rear led brake lights
-a more progressive styling profile
-gas struts for the hood (the sonata uses a prop rod)
-a well optioned car for a base model
-perceived brand image (debateable..who do people value more: the saturn rings or the italicized H...)

on the negative side:
-simply does not compete on a value basis. for $30k after tax i can get a top end fully loaded Sonata with 5 yr warranty and 0% financing over 60 months. that same amount gets me a base XE with power seat and steering wheel controls, 3 yr warranty, and 2.9% over 60 months
-smaller entrance to the cabin
-smaller trunk
-tighter rear leg room
-17" wheels with hub caps (vs 17" alloys on the korean)
-a wealth of features not found at this price point on the xe
-no haggling over price (again debateable nitpick)

[ViperZ]

Saturn Aura is a German Opel Vectra with Saturn logo on the front. Lets hope they will be able to match german workmanship.

http://www.opel.de/shop/cars/vectra/gallery/photo/content.act;jsessionid=FwT3KZ2mPHVKrqwjK2S9yQy4f7h RStxqXh4wSDNpkkHJSHh8fNzJ!1035310180!1349591186

Opel Vectra:
http://www.webwombat.com.au/motoring/news_reports/images/opel-vectra-opc-2.jpg

Saturn Aura:

http://www.automobilemag.com/auto_shows/2006_new_york/0605_2007_saturn_aura_01_445.jpg

[Prof]

i love the Azera interior. as large as a 7 series bmw, great gauges, and that psuedo luxury which is just fun to be in. the exterior is admittedly quite bland and not reflective of this car. nice big engine, gimmicks like rear sun shades, and all the other toys. unfortunately that one pushes $35k which a good chunk of change.

Was watching the football game on my tuner and took a few minutes to check cars.com. Not really looking (Sonata and Camry are on my short list for a new car in the new year) but for kicks did a search for Azera. Found a very low mileage SE trim over the border asking $19,995. At that price, its an amazing buy. The SE doesn't have leather and a few trim features of the Ltd. But what a nice car at the price - about $23000 Cdn. Wow

[ilovecables]

That's a pretty educated and informed statement. Thanks for coming out.

LMAO :razz:

[MrDisco]

The SE doesn't have leather and a few trim features of the Ltd. But what a nice car at the price - about $23000 Cdn. Wow

yes the pricing is really out of whack right now. want an even bigger eye opener? check the price of the aura xr in US vs here. the pricing level for that trim is simply far too high compared to what our counterparts pay down south.

[ar_ken]

Saturn Aura is a German Opel Vectra with Saturn logo on the front. Lets hope they will be able to match german workmanship.

http://www.opel.de/shop/cars/vectra/gallery/photo/content.act;jsessionid=FwT3KZ2mPHVKrqwjK2S9yQy4f7h RStxqXh4wSDNpkkHJSHh8fNzJ!1035310180!1349591186

Opel Vectra:
http://www.webwombat.com.au/motoring/news_reports/images/opel-vectra-opc-2.jpg

Saturn Aura:

http://www.automobilemag.com/auto_shows/2006_new_york/0605_2007_saturn_aura_01_445.jpg

I wonder how long is it going to be before someone "rebadge" it as the Opel Vectra :D

Actually.... a Saturn Sky --> Opel GT would be easier. From the opel.de website, the only difference I see between those 2 are the front grille (badge only), trunk badge, the badge on the steering wheel, and the wheel center caps. I know I would be doing that to a Sky if I ever own one. :cheesygri

O no... I smell Uncle Ben..... jk.

I actually won't mind seeing the hatchback version here. I think it will make a good competitor to the Mazda6 Sport.

[Evil Techie]

id say take the Sonata on another test drive

try to get in and out of the cars a few times in these 2 cars and see which one you can really live with

i think Sonata has better bang for the value but styling isnt really original or outstanding

or look into buying an Aura from the states to make the money work a little harder

[eelfliw]

The Aura is a new car. You won't see any promotions (0% financing etc.) on it until next summer when the '08s come in. Besides, the automotive press is helping GM doing a big promotion right now. So unless GM has another quarter of big losses, discounted Aura is unlikely until next year. Also, Saturn sales figures have been good in September (http://www.saturnfans.com/Company/2006/september2006sales.shtml) so I seriously doubt you'll see promotions.

I don't think the small cabin entrance is a big issue unless you drive several different cars with different sized opening. If this is your main driving car, then you will adapt to the smaller entrance quickly. I think you're bumping your head because your current car has a bigger entrance so you're not used to folding your body as much when you get in to the Aura.

As for which car is for you, try deciding what's more important for YOU instead of car specifics. For example, smaller trunk doesn't really matter unless you carry big items all the time (eg. I prefer SL over Aura because the larger trunk opening allows me to put 2 golf bags sideways in the back whereas the Aura's smaller opening makes me put in the bag diagonally). Firmer suspension only matters if you drive the car aggressively (makes slides more controllable) but sacrifices ride quality. Do you drive aggressively or want a plush ride?

[andrei_2006]

Its a GM product, and should not be trusted

[Slippery_Pete]

No, it's a Saturn, I'd buy a Ford before I bought a Saturn

Very insightful. I'm going to take his advice next time I'm thinking about buying a car. Thanks sixer, thanks.

[MrDisco]

id say take the Sonata on another test drive

i think Sonata has better bang for the value but styling isnt really original or outstanding


actually i took the aura xe and xr and the sonata out again for a spin this morning. the sonata's bang for the buck is absolutely mind-blowing. The Aura XR has a fantastic engine, but is it worth $6000 more than the XE? I doubt it. I'm pretty happy with my belief that that Aura offers a sporty ride while the Sonata is more of a plush floater.


or look into buying an Aura from the states to make the money work a little harder

naw. i know it can be done, its just a hassle i dont have the time/patience to invest in.

[MrDisco]

I don't think the small cabin entrance is a big issue unless you drive several different cars with different sized opening. If this is your main driving car, then you will adapt to the smaller entrance quickly. I think you're bumping your head because your current car has a bigger entrance so you're not used to folding your body as much when you get in to the Aura.


This will be my primary (and only) car so I'm being overly nit-picky. My current car (a Regal) is actually smaller in size than current sedans, however due to its boxier styling the entrance is much easier to deal with. but your right you do become accustomed to newer characteristics. i also felt cramped in the Aura, while the Sonata felt much more open and roomy. Later that day I sat in the '07 Camry and it too felt like very comfortable - lots of space, comfortable seating position, and decent materials. Of course it commands a premium (only second to the Accord in pricing) giving you a base 4 cylinder with a smaller feature set at the same price point (although tellingly, of the 3 dealerships I went to today the Toyota showroom had the most customers).

Its a GM product, and should not be trusted

Another well informed post. Bravo! <_<

[sixer]

Saturn's are horribly unreliable, the worst being the VUE. Friends and family who've owned them paid lots in repairs. Do the research, you'll see.
I'm not wasting any further time discussing Saturns for these reasons. Period.
Just giving the prospective buyer an FYI that he should do some homework. The VUE, awww, horrible. Cringe at the thought of it. Trannies, electrical, leaks, everything.....

[B0000rt]

Saturn's are horribly unreliable, the worst being the VUE. Friends and family who've owned them paid lots in repairs. Do the research, you'll see.
I'm not wasting any further time discussing Saturns for these reasons. Period.
Just giving the prospective buyer an FYI that he should do some homework. The VUE, awww, horrible. Cringe at the thought of it. Trannies, electrical, leaks, everything.....
Clearly you know nothing. This car was/is not developed by Saturn. It is simply an Opel that is rebadged. If one was researching the reliability of this car, they should not be looking at Saturn's track record, as it is an Opel.

Maybe YOU should be doing your homework before even posting in this thread.

[frogger]

Clearly you know nothing. This car was/is not developed by Saturn. It is simply an Opel that is rebadged. If one was researching the reliability of this car, they should not be looking at Saturn's track record, as it is an Opel.

Maybe YOU should be doing your homework before even posting in this thread.

LOL I don't think so. While I don't think the Vue reliablility has much to do with the Aura (especially since the Vue v6 is a honda engine/transmission), the Aura is NOT a rebadged Opel. Its a longer wheelbase version of the epsilon vs the Opel Vectra, a different dash and has different engines.

[VivienM]

This will be my primary (and only) car so I'm being overly nit-picky. My current car (a Regal) is actually smaller in size than current sedans, however due to its boxier styling the entrance is much easier to deal with.

Maybe I'm missing something, but any reason why the Buick Allure is not on your shortlist?

[B0000rt]

LOL I don't think so. While I don't think the Vue reliablility has much to do with the Aura (especially since the Vue v6 is a honda engine/transmission), the Aura is NOT a rebadged Opel. Its a longer wheelbase version of the epsilon vs the Opel Vectra, a different dash and has different engines.

Heh is that so?

But regardless, you really can't take Saturn's track record into this car. I guess you could say, yes, the Vue tranny isn't that great, being a Honda Auto for V6 anyways ;)

Otherwise, the Aura's 3.5L is standard equipment in the GM lineup, while the 3.6L's reliability can been seen through Cadlliac's success with it in it's CTS, SRX and STS etc..

I'd like to see if the Aura would get the newer revised LY7 with Direct Injection, or not...


Edit:
I take everything back, I didn't see that the transmission is a 6T70

T for transverse :(

[Evil Techie]

maybe save up for a camry hybrid?

hehe

IMO, a plush ride is more important for a primary car
since you arent buying a BMW, who cares about a nice handling ride

but then you have to ask yourself how much spirited driving will you actually be doing with the way gas is costing nowadays

[radeonboy]

Im not a fan of American cars, but I have to say the Aura exterior wise is pretty nice. Now when I see it, I have a vision. The Aura has LOTS OF POTENTIAL to look amazing when you modify the body. Give it some rims, and some other stuff, and the AURA is sure a standout.

Kudos to Saturns design team.

[radeonboy]

BTW: Its been widely known that GM is notorious for platform sharing, whether it be here between GM models, or GM transferring European models here. Look what they did with the Holden, they brought it here as a GTO.

Saves GM boatloads of money everytime they have to design a new car for a different market. Why dont they just share platforms, designs, thats whats GM does always.

[VivienM]

BTW: Its been widely known that GM is notorious for platform sharing, whether it be here between GM models, or GM transferring European models here. Look what they did with the Holden, they brought it here as a GTO.

The GTO was only sold in the US, not in Canada... :(

[VivienM]

Edit:
I take everything back, I didn't see that the transmission is a 6T70

T for transverse :(

Yup, that's GM's brand new FWD 6 speed transmission...

[MrDisco]

the Aura is NOT a rebadged Opel. Its a longer wheelbase version of the epsilon vs the Opel Vectra, a different dash and has different engines.

the opel vectra *is* based on the epsilon chasis (and for that matter with the Saab 9-3, Chevy Malibu Maxx, and Pontiac G6). Saturn chose to retain those chassis attributes that help sell Opels in Europe, but you're right the engine, dash (etc) have been changed for our market. Is this still considered re-badging? I guess it's a question of semantics. Two things are for sure:
-There is parts sharing amongst divisions (heck the saturn 3spoke steering wheel is identical to Opel and the G6)
-Reliability cannot be based on past Saturns given this is a completely new desgin with new parts. Comments like 'avoid the Aura because GM is crappy' is so inane I don't even know why these people bother to post. :confused:

[MrDisco]

Maybe I'm missing something, but any reason why the Buick Allure is not on your shortlist?

You are right, the Allure has a few points that make it a worthy competitor.

I currently have a Buick Regal so I know what to expect in terms of ride quality. However I am loathe to get another 3800 series engine given the gasket problems earlier 3800s have (including my own - the major reason why I'm looking to buy a new vehicle). As well, the Allure, despite being a longer car, has less interior space and a smaller trunk compared to the Sonata. I'm the type that likes a larger vehicle for the comfort and to avoid that boxed in feeling (as a side note I am most impressed with the Buick Lucerne and would seriously consider it if it weren't for their ridiculous 6.9% financing rate).

Styling is a personal choice of course. IMO I'm not a big fan of the pseudo-Jag/E Class look that they did with the front. The interior isn't bad, however I will have to test drive one to see what a base, cloth Allure looks like (naturally the web only shows the higher end, leather appointed Allures)

Price wise, a CX with Leather comes to $30k plus taxes and admin fee. This places it in the same ball park as a Camry LE V6 and about $1k cheaper than an Accord SE V6. An added bonus is that Buick offers a 4yr/80k km warranty which is more than other GM vehicles (excpet for maybe Cadillac) and is the 2nd best compared to Hyundai. As a current Regal owner I may even qualify for a loyalty incentive (if they still offer those). I do know that my sales rep for the Regal is hungry for a sale so it will be FAR easier to bargain (in comparison the local Toyota guy said he was only willing to take $500 off of the list price because the camry is in such high demand right now).

Currently the Allure works out to about $600/month with $0 down and 1.5% financing over 60 months (based on MSRP). I can get a Sonata for $550/month ($0 down, 0$), an Azera for $684/month ($0 down, 0%, based on MSRP). By reference the Camry LE V6 is $680/mo (5.9%/60) and the Accord is $686 (4.9%/60), both based on MSRP. So you can see the spread is definately there between US&Korea vs Japan.

Ultimately it all comes down to what you can afford, and what you like and find comfortable. I'll give the Allure a look tomorrow and see if I change my mind on the 3800.

[Evil Techie]

i wouldnt buy the Camry LE V6 until they have fully fixed the transmission problem

if i was you, id get the Sonata with its pretty good safety rating and seemingly decent reliability lately

the thing is, korean cars are not as cheap as you think when it comes to maintainance though from what i heard

[VivienM]

I currently have a Buick Regal so I know what to expect in terms of ride quality. However I am loathe to get another 3800 series engine given the gasket problems earlier 3800s have (including my own - the major reason why I'm looking to buy a new vehicle). As well, the Allure, despite being a longer car, has less interior space and a smaller trunk compared to the Sonata. I'm the type that likes a larger vehicle for the comfort and to avoid that boxed in feeling (as a side note I am most impressed with the Buick Lucerne and would seriously consider it if it weren't for their ridiculous 6.9% financing rate).

My understanding is that the troublesome composite 3800 intake gaskety thing (sorry, I don't know the terminology too well...) was replaced with an aluminum one in the 3800 Series III. That should stop the problem they had with the Series II.

What happened with yours? There is a recall on those intake gaskety things (unlike for the 60 degree V6s'), so GM should be paying for the repairs...

And yes, I don't know what's up with the Lucerne pricing. It's THE least incentived car in the GM lineup right now, even though its MSRP isn't that competitive at the higher end. (At the low end... well, what else do you get if you want a big basic car for $32K?)

[VivienM]

The interior isn't bad, however I will have to test drive one to see what a base, cloth Allure looks like (naturally the web only shows the higher end, leather appointed Allures)

Oh, little secret: if you want good car pictures, go to ebaymotors.com. (The American one) The dealer-type sellers there typically take way better pictures than the GM press department.

Do note that the thing we call Allure is called LaCrosse south of the border.

[SkiD]

the opel vectra *is* based on the epsilon chasis (and for that matter with the Saab 9-3, Chevy Malibu Maxx, and Pontiac G6). Saturn chose to retain those chassis attributes that help sell Opels in Europe, but you're right the engine, dash (etc) have been changed for our market. Is this still considered re-badging? I guess it's a question of semantics. Two things are for sure:
-There is parts sharing amongst divisions (heck the saturn 3spoke steering wheel is identical to Opel and the G6)
-Reliability cannot be based on past Saturns given this is a completely new desgin with new parts. Comments like 'avoid the Aura because GM is crappy' is so inane I don't even know why these people bother to post. :confused:

The Aura shares the long wheel base version of the epsilon platform with the G6/Malibu Maxx (Next year's redesigned Malibu will also be based on the epsilon-L).
The 9-3 (Cadillac BLS), Vectra (Astra) and current Malibu are based on the regular epsilon platform, but the 9-3 and Vectra are different from the Malibu (so much for global platform).

The Aura is based on the styling and handling of the Vectra, but it is not a rebadge.

The epsilon II platform is supposed to debut in the 9-3 and 9-5 in 2 years and then the Vectra after that. At this point I suspect the Aura will become a rebadge. The Buick Allure (LaCrosse) will also most likely move over to the epsilon II platform from the W-body around '09.

The epsilon platform is known for good crash testing results (it is very strong), the Aura proves it can be made into a good handling package (for a FWD) and the XR has the Cadillac 3.6 engine and a 6 speed automatic that so far seems to be a lot better than the Camry's automatic (wonder how long until all of them have to be replaced). If GM updates/make changes to the nitpicks that people have found with this car, what will Domestic haters do.

[konfusion666]

on the plus side:
-superior instrument cluster
-better looking radio panel
-full featured steering wheel controls
-stiffer suspension setup
-side marker lamps and rear led brake lights
-a more progressive styling profile
-gas struts for the hood (the sonata uses a prop rod)
-a well optioned car for a base model
-perceived brand image (debateable..who do people value more: the saturn rings or the italicized H...)

on the negative side:
-simply does not compete on a value basis. for $30k after tax i can get a top end fully loaded Sonata with 5 yr warranty and 0% financing over 60 months. that same amount gets me a base XE with power seat and steering wheel controls, 3 yr warranty, and 2.9% over 60 months
-smaller entrance to the cabin
-smaller trunk
-tighter rear leg room
-17" wheels with hub caps (vs 17" alloys on the korean)
-a wealth of features not found at this price point on the xe
-no haggling over price (again debateable nitpick)

Wow, I don't see reliability listed on either your "pro" or "con" list (depending on which camp you're a member of). Irrespective of which German Opel vehicle the Aura is based on, shouldn't you at least be looking into that subject?

And as I recall, you settled on the Sonata after publication-after-publication lavished "Car of the Year"-type awards on it... shouldn't you wait until the Aura recieves the same treatment, rather than just focussing on the results of your test drive? ;)

[x-batman]

but then you have to ask yourself how much spirited driving will you actually be doing with the way gas is costing nowadays


LOL are you serious about the gas price comment? its cheap now a days, on a good day you can get gas for likr $0.76 on a bad day maybe $0.85 although it is forcased to go up soon, gas has been cheap'er' for a little while now

[MrDisco]

Wow, I don't see reliability listed on either your "pro" or "con" list (depending on which camp you're a member of). Irrespective of which German Opel vehicle the Aura is based on, shouldn't you at least be looking into that subject?


it's not listed b/c the Aura is a year 1 model with very little research data out there. it would be totally irresponsible of me to say the reliabilty is a 'pro' or a 'con' without any proof to backup the claim. all i can say is that GM is taking great strides to improve quality, and Saturn is working to improve their rather lackluster scores.


And as I recall, you settled on the Sonata after publication-after-publication lavished "Car of the Year"-type awards on it... shouldn't you wait until the Aura recieves the same treatment, rather than just focussing on the results of your test drive? ;)

Not quite. I settled on the Sonata after seeing the immense value inherent in the purchase. The awards was more like icing on the cake.

Yes I could wait, however that is not neccessarily a luxury I have. I would have to wait a year before any meaningful long-term test drive results are obtained.

[MrDisco]

What happened with yours? There is a recall on those intake gaskety things (unlike for the 60 degree V6s'), so GM should be paying for the repairs...


I had quick check done and the tech said that I have the gasket issue. However due to the age I seem to recall them telling me that I didn't qualify for any compensation from GM (interestingly there is a class action suit in the States on this matter).

[VivienM]

I had quick check done and the tech said that I have the gasket issue. However due to the age I seem to recall them telling me that I didn't qualify for any compensation from GM (interestingly there is a class action suit in the States on this matter).

Did you call GM of Canada?

I think this is how it works:
- for the 3.1/3.4 issue, that's under the GM goodwill program... if they like you, they may pay for part of it,
- for the 3.8, that's an official recall, so GM will pay for it automagically more or less

I remember my dad (who also has a Regal) getting the recall notice, though apparently the word on the street is that the recall "fix" is worthless... but the notice also said to submit any receipts for repairs that you've paid to GM so they can reimburse you.

Also, did you get them to fix it? If unfixed, this thing can lead to serious engine damage...

[KevC]

The sky is hot.

[ES_Revenge]

LY7 motor FTW! :)

[MrDisco]

Did you call GM of Canada?

no i haven't called them. at this point even if they do fix it there are other issues which just want me to dump the car, ie:
-driver's side door panel has come loose as the plastic has broken away from the screw mount
-power antenna does not work
-power windows work intermittently
-a/c compressor needs to be replaced
-rear shocks need to be replaced
-transmission release button on the shifter sticks at times, preventing me from switching gears
-arm rest door has broken off at the plastic hinge
-spring loaded cup holder flap has broken
-lights on the a/c panel have burnt out
-a rear squeel now occurs while the car is in motion (probably needs new rotors)
etc. this was all during normal use of the vehicle.

i've spent so much on repairs over the course of 10 years that frankly even a free engine isn't enough to make me want to keep the vehicle any longer


Also, did you get them to fix it? If unfixed, this thing can lead to serious engine damage...

heck no. the car is only worth $500 (at best) for scrap metal so if the engine is seriously damaged who cares.

edit: I knew there was something I was forgetting...

"In its statement, General Motors said that all vehicles are covered by a minimum warranty of three years or 60,000 km and some may have more standard coverage. "Beyond the warranty period, our dealers and retailers review out-of-warranty concerns on a case-by-case basis. If the customer is not satisfied with the dealer's decision, where is a process detailed in the owner assistance information booklet to help customers resolve concerns they may have. An intake manifold gasket concern can arise from a variety of causes. It is for this reason that any concern a customer may have beyond the warranty period is handled on a case-by-case basis," the statement reads."

Our car had the extended warranty coverage, however that ended a few years ago. I remember we called GM's hotline number and they told us due to the age (10 years) and the km (at that time maybe..180k km?) they would not provide us any goodwill. That left us with a $2000+ repair job to have upper and lower plenum replaced, etc. That was the driving force behind my new car purchase and why I'm hesitant to go with GM again (and to be clear I think they have some great cars in their lineup, but there has to be some way to 'punish' them for my experience).

[Evil Techie]

so r u going for Sonata?

[VivienM]

no i haven't called them. at this point even if they do fix it there are other issues which just want me to dump the car, ie:
-driver's side door panel has come loose as the plastic has broken away from the screw mount
-power antenna does not work
-power windows work intermittently
-a/c compressor needs to be replaced
-rear shocks need to be replaced
-transmission release button on the shifter sticks at times, preventing me from switching gears
-arm rest door has broken off at the plastic hinge
-spring loaded cup holder flap has broken
-lights on the a/c panel have burnt out
-a rear squeel now occurs while the car is in motion (probably needs new rotors)
etc. this was all during normal use of the vehicle.

i've spent so much on repairs over the course of 10 years that frankly even a free engine isn't enough to make me want to keep the vehicle any longer



heck no. the car is only worth $500 (at best) for scrap metal so if the engine is seriously damaged who cares.

edit: I knew there was something I was forgetting...

"In its statement, General Motors said that all vehicles are covered by a minimum warranty of three years or 60,000 km and some may have more standard coverage. "Beyond the warranty period, our dealers and retailers review out-of-warranty concerns on a case-by-case basis. If the customer is not satisfied with the dealer's decision, where is a process detailed in the owner assistance information booklet to help customers resolve concerns they may have. An intake manifold gasket concern can arise from a variety of causes. It is for this reason that any concern a customer may have beyond the warranty period is handled on a case-by-case basis," the statement reads."

Our car had the extended warranty coverage, however that ended a few years ago. I remember we called GM's hotline number and they told us due to the age (10 years) and the km (at that time maybe..180k km?) they would not provide us any goodwill. That left us with a $2000+ repair job to have upper and lower plenum replaced, etc. That was the driving force behind my new car purchase and why I'm hesitant to go with GM again (and to be clear I think they have some great cars in their lineup, but there has to be some way to 'punish' them for my experience).

Waiiit a second... so this is a pre-1997 Regal?