http://canadianautopress.auto123.com/en.../view.spy?make=Saturn&artid=67245&pg=4The Saturn Aura will easily find a niche with its refined interiors
and European styling (I apologize for
using that term "European" again, but in this case it is literally European, lifted almost wholesale from a European car, the Opel Vectra), but GM can also justify a base price slightly higher than either the G6 or Malibu by delivering a far superior ride and better dynamics in almost every sense. This is one of the best cars from GM that I've had the opportunity to drive, and with perhaps another generation, the interior will have a more cohesive look that the luxury marques execute so well (think of the Volvo S40 floating centre stack or a Lexus IS refined interior). Overall though, the Aura offers a value far beyond its features and options, greater than its V6 engine or 252 horsepower and even more unique than its (borrowed) styling; it is fresh and glowing with a springtime (not Spring Hill) radiance reflective of Saturn's renewal, a sign of better things to come from the youngest of GM's brands.
http://www.thecarconnection.com/Vehicle...upes/2007_Saturn_Aura.S180.A10775.htmlOur conclusion? Saturn has delivered the sort of car we've always been looking for from this promising GM brand. It's affordable, well-equipped and a lot of fun to drive. There are a few glitches, but nothing that would cause you to steer clear. For the first time since its debut, Saturn finally has product to be proud of, and the Aura seems certain to connect with buyers who are looking for alternatives to the imports.
The Aura's cabin is another winner. The fit and finish borders on Honda Accord quality, the styling is very attractive and, save for the rear bench being a little too low, the seating is comfortable and spacious. It's also well equipped with climate control air conditioning, tilt/telescoping steering and power driver's seat. There are even power adjustable pedals on option.
Despite all the positives, there is a "but" -- Saturn Canada has priced the XR at $30,985. That's quite a jump from the US$24,595 price, considering there's less than a 12% difference between our currencies. Though that's not outlandishly expensive, it's a shame since the Aura is definitely the class of this class, which includes the Camry, Accord and Mazda6.
nice job GM, hopefully we can restrict all reviews from the press, to this thread, there are a ton of reviews that should be rolling in and it looks like GM has a huge hit on their hands
http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/news...d=51ab66e3-87bd-4d6e-abe1-957453b083d4