Enjoy! – MotorWeek’s Hybrid Round Up:

Within the industry, they’re referred to as “mild” hybrids. They’re cars like the Saturn Aura and Chevy Malibu that have conventional engines with oversized starter-motors, which allow the engine to be shut down whenever the car is braking, coasting, or stopped (such as at a red light) without requiring a full re-start. Gauges, systems (like air conditioning) and electronic accessories (mp3 players, GPS systems) run on existing electrical power, and the motor spins the engine back to operating RPMs before any fuel is injected.

While mild hybrids don’t have electric motors, they do still offer some hybrid features. For example, they use less battery power, over all, and some mild hybrids even use regenerative braking to recharge that battery, just like the Toyota Prius hybrid, and their other true-hybrid cousins.

Because these cars do not have actual hybrid drivetrains, and because their fuel economy is generally within 10% of that for similar models with standard, non-hybrid drivetrains, mild hybrids are often the subject of negative feedback. “Why spend more,” people wonder, “on a hybrid that really isn’t one, when there don’t seem to be any obvious benefits?” The truth, however, is that there are still reasons other than the mpg numbers to consider one of these cars.

Those reasons include:

• Mild hybrids are good first steps. For people who are interested in hybrid technology, but not so certain they wish to commit to a whole new style of driving, these cars are a bridge, sort of like automotive training wheels. They are excellent first-hybrid options for those who want a greener vehicle.
• They’re less expensive, over all. While mild hybrids such as the Saturn Aura are more expensive to purchase than the Aura with a standard internal combustion engine, they’re still significantly less expensive to purchase than a true hybrid. As well, since they have fewer non-standard parts, these cars are less expensive to repair than hybrids with battery packs and electric motors. As well, with this summer’s dramatic gas prices sending people shopping for full hybrids in droves, and often being wait-listed, mild hybrids come in many more models, and have a greater availability.
• Hybrid incentives still apply. Like full-hybrid vehicles, mild hybrids qualify their owners for a tax credit from the government (though it’s important to remember that each automaker only has a limited number of hybrids that can be sold before the credit goes away).

The dictionary definition of “mild” is “gentle or moderate in force or effect,” and “moderate in intensity, degree, or character.” While it’s true that so-called mild hybrids meet this definition in the negative aspect – they don’t offer as much fuel efficiency as a fully-hybrid vehicle – these cars meet the definition in the positive aspect as well: they do offer an improvement in fuel economy of about 10 percent, and they are less expensive to own and operate than a true hybrid car. From that point of view, perhaps mild hybrids are worth considering, after all.

2009 SATURN AURA XR I-4 ‘NO COMPROMISES’

Wait, you don’t have to compromise and purchase a sub-compact car to achieve more than 30mpg. You don’t have to squeeze into your new ride to squeeze out the most mpg.

The new, 2009 Saturn Aura XR mid-size sport sedan gives excellent mpg and more.
With the 2.4 liter Ecotec inline four-cylinder engine mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission, you can expect to get EPA mileage rated specs of 22mpg/city, and 33mpg/highway, the best of any mid-size sedan.

Depending on how you drive your Aura, and the current traffic conditions, you can get up to 39mpg/highway and up to 26mpg/city. These numbers can really stretch your dollars.

Generating a healthy 169hp and 160lb.ft. of torque, the 2.4 liter Ecotech engine features cast aluminum engine block and heads, roller finger follower rocker arms, chain-driven DOHC camshafts, twin balance shafts and a very rigid structure.

To further enhance fuel savings and provide a more engaging driving experience, the XR model is equipped with a six-speed transmission and TapShift, a feature that allows you to manually change gears with steering-wheel mounted paddles.

The Aura is the flagship vehicle in Saturn’s recently revamped car lineup, blending the brand’s European-inspired design language and high levels of refinement with its trademark customer-centric purchase and ownership experience.

The Aura sports bold styling elements including distinctive headlamps covered in clear housing that wrap upward, and around the corners of the vehicle that adds a sense of motion to the vehicle. A chrome grille bar proudly carries the Saturn badge.

From the side is a long and sleek silhouette with sweptback windshield pillars, flared fenders, an elegant chrome strip surrounds a low greenhouse that is longer in the rear giving backseat passengers more legroom, and a short deck-lid.

Aerodynamic sideview mirrors, chrome pull-out door handles, and lower rocker panels help the Aura to cheat the wind, improving the handling and quietness inside.

At the rear are LED taillamps that enhance Aura’s technical ethic and provides extra visibility. A single, 2in. round, chrome tipped exhaust outlet is found below the rear bumper.

The four-cylinder Aura XR model rides on 17X7in. cast aluminum wheels wrapped with low rolling resistance, P225/50R17in. performance tires.

The Aura XR’s stiff steel unitized body and frame are underpinned with a sport-tuned, fully independent suspension. Up front are MacPherson struts with aluminum L-shaped control arms and a direct-acting stabilizer bar. The rear features a four-link setup with monotube gas-charged shocks, dual-rate mini-block coil springs and a direct-acting stabilizer bar. The ride is very precise and controlled. The power assisted hydraulic rack & pinion steering system gives excellent feedback from the road and quickly steers the car where you want it to go. The XR remains flat in steep curves, solid on the freeway at high-speeds, and smoothes out the bumps when traveling over poorly paved roads.

When the sport-spirit takes control, using the TapShift feature allows you to hold the gears to redline, and you can quickly downshift when entering curves at high speed.

Not too fast though because the Aura XR, and all Auras’ for that matter, are front-wheel-drive and you can expect some understeer when entering a steep curve at higher-than-recommended speeds. StabiliTrak electronic stabilization program now comes standard along with traction control. In combination they can help you maintain control in similar situations, or when driving on slick roads.

Slowing the new Aura XR down from speed are power-assisted, four-wheel disc brakes.
Up front are 11.6in. vented discs clamped with dual-piston calipers, and 10.6in. solid discs clamped with single-piston calipers in the rear.

The four-cylinder XR has great contemporary styling and superb engineering with input from Opel, GM’s German subsidiary, so you know that you’ll enjoy the ride, whether on a short or long trip. The car easily maneuvered around slow city traffic, and cruised seamlessly at more than 65mph.

The interior takes its cue from the outside with unique and refined styling in a roomy, comfortable and safe cabin that sits four-adults in comfort. A major attribute of the Aura’s interior is its premium materials with soft-touch face and low-gloss appearance with tight tolerances throughout exhibiting excellent fit and finish.

For 2009, both the XR four-cylinder and V6 models get standard leather-appointed and heated front bucket seats. The standard leather-wrapped steering wheel is tilt/telescoping with redundant audio controls and cruise-control buttons. Bluetooth hands-free phone technology is also standard this year. The T-shaped dashboard features aluminum and chrome trim, and the console features storage space, dual-cup-holders and two-tiered storage bin with 12-volt power plug. The instrument cluster is easy to see and uses LED-lit analog gauges, as well as LEDs projecting an amber glow from the overhead lamp and front door release pockets to give the vehicle a warm, upscale character. Self-dimming theater lighting enhances the premium feel and provides added convenience at night.

A six-speaker AM-FM-CD stereo system is standard and includes an auxiliary input jack for portable audio players. Saturn’s advanced audio system is optional on XR and it includes an AM-FM-CD/MP3 radio with eight-speakers, 240-watt amp and rear-seat audio controls with two-wireless headphone. XM Satellite Radio and ONSTAR are come standard for one-year.

Standard equipment on the XR model, not mentioned above, includes AC/Heater, rear window defroster, power windows/door locks, 8-way driver power seat adjustments, floor mats front/rear, Driver Information System, rear dual cup-holders and 60/40-split back seating that enlarges your cargo-carrying capacity.

Options include power sunroof, Bose Surround-Sound audio system with Saturn’s Navigation system, heated/self-dimming driver-side outside mirror, remote trunk release, remote vehicle start, and a self-dimming rearview mirror with compass heading.

Standard safety features include dual-front airbags, head curtain airbags-front/rear, front side-impact airbags, daytime running lamps, automatic headlamps, LATCH system for child seats, remote keyless entry, tire pressure monitor, theft deterrent system, steel beams in each door, and front/rear crush zones.

With the segment-best non-hybrid fuel economy, roomy seating for up to five, contemporary styling, excellent ride and handling, it is no wonder that I really enjoyed my time behind the wheel of the new inline-four cylinder Saturn Aura XR.

COPYRIGHT:2008:HARVEY SCHWARTZ

Type: Midsize Sedan
Where Built: United States
EPA Class: Midsize Cars

Dimensions

Exterior
Length: 190.9 in. Width: 70.3 in.
Height: 57.6 in. Wheel Base: 112.3 in.
Curb Weight: 3438 lbs.

Interior
Front Head Room: 39.4 in. Front Hip Room: 53 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 55.9 in. Rear Head Room: 37.4 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 54 in. Rear Hip Room: 52.2 in.
Front Leg Room: 42.2 in. Rear Leg Room: 37.6 in.
Luggage Capacity: 14.9 cu. ft. Maximum Seating: 5

Performance Data

Base Number of Cylinders: 4 Base Engine Size: 2.4 liters
Base Engine Type: Inline 4 Horsepower: 169 hp
Max Horsepower: 6400 rpm Torque: 160 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 4500 rpm Maximum Towing Capacity: 1000 lbs.
Drive Type: FWD Turning Circle: 40.4 ft.
0-60 mph: 6.1 seconds

Fuel Data

Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.3 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway)
Automatic: : 22 mpg / 33 mpg
Range in Miles: (City/Highway)
Automatic: 358.6 mi. / 537.9 mi.

Saturn, or should I say GM, is playing up the new Saturn Astra compact car with a chance to win one by kissing my Astra. Yes, you can kiss the ass or any other area of the new Saturn Astra. While you are at it, you can submit a photo of you kissing a new Saturn Astra at your local Saturn dealership for a chance to win by following the links below.

Kiss My Astra now here!

To enter, log on to http://www.saturnkissmyastra.com and upload a photo of yourself kissing an Astra. Be sure to include a written description of 50 words or less.

The photo submission period ends September 6, 2008. Finalists (named by a panel of judges) can recruit their friends and relatives to vote for their photo beginning September 14, 2008. During this phase, voters can also enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win additional prizes.

Full contest rules, instructions and guidelines are available at: http://www.saturnkissmyastra.com.

For more information about the Saturn Astra five-door XR, click here!

Automotive Addicts – 2008 Saturn Astra XR Test Drive Link

With gasoline prices headed for the stratosphere, many consumers are looking for compact vehicles that bring higher mpg and more function for their day-to-day driving needs. The all-new 2008 Saturn Astra brings all of that plus a decidedly European flavor to Saturn showrooms across the country. It is packed with a wide range of standard equipment and safety features, and delivers sporty performance with very good fuel economy.

The Astra is offered in three-door and five-door models, each underpinned by a taut, European-bred suspension that delivers a sharp, responsive driving experience. Power comes from a 1.8 liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine that is both energetic and economical, delivering 140hp and 24mpg/city and 30mpg/highway. Astra’s combination of style, performance, low price, safety technology and fuel efficiency are sure to make it a hit when it comes to Saturn showrooms in the late summer.

Saturn offers two trim levels, (XE & XR) for five-door models, and a single trim (XR) in the three-door model, which was created with enthusiast drivers in mind.

The standard powertrain combination in all models is the 1.8 liter Ecotec DOHC four-cylinder engine, paired with a five-speed manual. The Ecotec engine is enhanced with VVT to optimize power output and fuel efficiency generating 138hp and 126lb.ft. of torque. That equates to a healthy 77hp per liter. A four-speed automatic is optional.

Astra offers new technologies to provide an agile, yet comfortable, driving experience.
StabiliTrak stability control system with traction control is standard on all three-door Astra’s, and available on five-door models. This system works in concert with the standard four-wheel, ABS brake system to help you maintain control during adverse road conditions or during sudden emergency driving situations.

An electro-hydraulic, rack & pinion steering system is standard on all models. This system provides a solid, linear feel of a hydraulic power steering system, but improves fuel efficiency by operating the power steering pump only when necessary.
Five-door Astra’s come standard with 16X6in. wheels, but can be upgraded to 17X7in. aluminum wheels. Three-door models come standard with 17X7in. aluminum wheels, which can be upgraded to 18X8in. aluminum wheels and performance tires.

All Astra models have specifically tuned suspensions with the three-door Astra receiving a sport-tuned setup that includes a 15mm lower ride height, quicker steering calibration, a specific front axle configuration and an electronically aided sport chassis system. This sport-tuned setup is also available on the five-door model. Up front is a strut-type setup with control arms, stabilizer bar and steering rack mounted to the subframe. All of the front suspension’s bushings are designed to minimize noise and vibration. The rear setup features a semi-independent torsion-link axle design, with an axle-beam formed to a double-U-shaped profile. This enhances strength and also serves as a stabilizer bar. The rear control arms also feature integrated wheel carriers that are made from lightweight, one-piece, hollow-cast material. These lightweight control arms reduce unsprung mass, for an increased feel of nimbleness. The hollow control arms are connected to the high-strength rear axle beam via the Opel-developed Magnetarc welding process, which enables high axle loads and a compact package. You’ll really enjoy the Astra’s sharp turn-in and solid feel when traveling at high speeds.

Quickly and safely slowing the Astra down from speed are bigger than expected power-assisted steel discs at all four corners. The front vented discs measure 12.2in. and are clamped with dual-piston calipers, while the rear solid discs measure 10.4in. and are clamped with single-piston calipers. Standard ABS keeps you in control on slick surfaces.

The Astra has a clean, contemporary design that is infused with Saturn’s signature styling cues including a bold, bright grille bar with a prominent Saturn log. At the sides are strong light clusters behind clear lenses; and below is a deep air-intake with chrome surround; and at its sides are strong round foglamps. From the side you’ll notice the low, sleek design with lower side rocker panels. The rear features a bold bumper, large, wraparound taillights and clear lenses. bright trim bar, spoiler and rear wiper/washer. The proportions on both body styles suggest an enthusiastic driving experience with the wheels pushed to the corners and subtle fender flares wrapped tightly around the tires for a tailored stance.

Bold design, refinement and precise execution are the hallmarks of the Saturn Astra’s interior, which envelops passengers in a contemporary environment that maximizes space, comfort and safety. Details include a continuation of the exterior’s center hood crease on the center of the instrument panel, as well as a V-shaped center stack motif that also complements the design language of the exterior. All models convey the Astra’s sporting character through firm, well-supported seats and a thick, three-spoke steering wheel with tilt/telescoping adjustments for the perfect fit. Ahead of the steering wheel is a rounded cockpit binnacle that houses a large, three-dimensional gauge cluster.

The sporty Astra three-door receives specific seats with more aggressive bolsters and lumbar support to keep you firmly in place during spirited driving. Additional interior highlights include an illuminated glove box with damped door actuation, a large, two-panel sunroof, the largest in its class, (only available on five-door models), optional headed seats in cloth or leather, auxiliary 12-volt power outlet, easy-to-remove rear cargo cover, power door locks and power windows all with express down feature, standard six-speaker AM/FM/CD radio and optional seven-speaker sound system, multi-disc and MP3-capable radios optional, dual map lamps, sunglass holder, grab handles above each passenger door, steering wheel mounted audio controls on XR models, A/C with air filtration, manual driver seat height adjustment, dual visor vanity mirrors, floor mats front and rear, driver information center, rear cargo cover and cargo tie down hooks.

Options not mentioned above include leather seating surfaces, steering wheel and shift lever.
Astra’s bold proportions, including a long, 103in. wheelbase, a 170.5in. overall length, and a 69in. width, provide exceptional roominess and generous storage capacity. The 60/40-split folding rear seat also folds flat with the touch of a convenient, high-mounted lever. When the rear seat is folded, the five-door Astra offers 44.7cu.ft. of storage space.

You are safe thanks to a comprehensive list of safety feature including a rigid body structure with safety cage, front/rear crush zones, high-strength steel used strategically throughout the body structure, six airbags, active head restraints, pedal release system, front safety belt pretensioners/load limiters, OnStar with one-year of Safe & Sound service and a tire pressure monitor system.

With fuel prices quickly rising, the all-new 2008 Saturn Astra provides an economical alternative for the growing family with bold looks, plenty of power for getting around slow moving traffic with a nimble suspension, contemporary interior features, a versatile interior for almost all of your needs, and a safe, comfortable environment for you and your family.

Prices for the five-door Astra XR that I tested start at just $16,925.00.

COPYRIGHT:2008:HARVEY SCHWARTZ
Type: Compact Coupe
Where Built: Belgium
EPA Class: Compact Cars

Dimensions

Exterior
Length: 170.5 in. Width: 69 in.
Height: 55.8 in. Wheel Base: 102.9 in.
Curb Weight: 2833 lbs.
Interior
Front Head Room: 37.8 in. Front Hip Room: 51.3 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 53.9 in. Rear Head Room: 36.6 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 52.7 in. Rear Hip Room: 51 in.
Front Leg Room: 42.3 in. Rear Leg Room: 35 in.
Luggage Capacity: 12 cu. ft. Maximum Cargo Capacity: 38 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 5

Performance Data

Performance
Base Number of Cylinders: 4 Base Engine Size: 1.8 liters
Base Engine Type: Inline 4 Horsepower: 138 hp
Max Horsepower: 6300 rpm Torque: 125 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 3800 rpm Maximum Towing Capacity: 1388 lbs.
Drive Type: FWD Turning Circle: 34.4 ft.

Fuel Data

Fuel
Fuel Tank Capacity: 12 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway)

Range in Miles: (City/Highway)

Rag Top, Topless, Drop Top, Convertible, Sun Fun, Hardtop, Soft-top and more. Okay folks, we are not talking about women outfits here, we are talking about the top 10 convertibles for this summer.

The automotive industry has come back with a vengeance developing and marking some of the best convertible cars yet. When a new panoramic sunroof just does not do it for you need to go completely topless then you may want to take a look at one of the top 10 Topless Cars for this summer.

#10

Mini Cooper
Price: $21,950

The Mini Cooper has made its mark as a favorite “little” car and recently a favorite due to the high gas prices. This soft top convertible has the same attractive cues as does the regular coupe. Also available is a version with a retractable soft-top that glides back for a panoramic vista roof view.

#9 and #8

Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky
Price: $22,165 and $25,525

You can consider both the Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky the little sisters or brothers of the Chevy Corvette, a convertible version of course. The new power plants may consider these little roadsters “pocket rockets” with a new 260hp turbocharged 2.0 liter. With that version it may set you back about 30 grand. Saturn Sky Test Drive.

#7

Ford Mustang
Price: $24,475

We have seen it, loved it, and now we still enjoy the infamous Ford Mustang with a soft drop top. When we say fun in the sun, this is it. Still one of the most affordable sports coupes you can buy on the market. As always, you can let your hair blow in the wind and still have some cash in your pocket for some expensive gas.

#6

Chrysler Sebring
Price: $26,160

This has got to be one of the most driven convertibles by tourists, business execs and those who want an inexpensive alternative to drive around in the sun. Rental car companies are not shy about offering a convertible and the Chrysler Sebring is usually THE choice. Recently added to the line-up is a hardtop convertible so you do not have to worry about a Mickey Mouse stalker cutting open your top to steal your iPod. Chrysler Sebring Convertible Test Drive.

#5

Honda S2000
Price: $34,300

The Honda S2000 is pretty much self explanatory by now. If you do not know about the Honda S2000 then you have been out-of touch from the automotive industry for a LONG TIME. This one is MONEY, quality in a pocket rocket with solid performance out of a 4-banger. If you live revving beyond the limit while enjoying the outside environment then this is the car for you.

#4

Chevrolet Corvette
Price: $54,575

Do you want some power pushing you around while the wind wisps past your face? No we don’t mean getting punched in the face, we mean the Chevrolet Corvette Convertible. Probably the fastest convertible you can buy for the money. 0-60 in 4.0 seconds, 430hp, over 25mpg, rear wheel drive all with a drop top… can’t beat that! Chevrolet Corvette Convertible Test Drive.

#3

Porsche Boxter S
Price: $55,700

The Porsche Boxter has grown up in the recent years and blossomed into a major alternative to those seeking a German engineered toy in a semi-practical package. With 295hp you would expect this convertible to drink gas faster than it makes heads turn when you drive past a group of on-lookers. Just like the Corvette, this drop top gets 26mpg and it is truly all Porsche for a lot less than it’s bigger brother, the 911.

#2

Jaguar XKR
Price: $92,035

We tested sex on wheels some time ago and found it to be just that, sex on wheels that can stay topless all day long and keep the heads turning. This cat purrs through it’s 300hp engine pushing near 4000lbs. around on the long cat legs that provide a subtle and smooth ride. Don’t let the soft fur of this cat fool you, it can play around with the best of the big dogs all while not being shameful of going topless.

#1

Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG
Price: $132,000

This one is a no-brainer if you want to choose a “nice” convertible to introduce the homecoming king and queen to a stadium full of alumni, just don’t press the gas pedal to hard. If do you do get this baby out on an open road with seatbelts securely in place, it wont disappoint at all. It touts 604hp through a turbocharged V12 engine matted to a 7-speed multi-clutch automatic tranny. If that is not enough to keep you satisfied then the hard top will allow you and your single passenger to both go topless and still make it in time for kickoff at the big game.

[idea of article from: msnautos.com]

Today GM released the announcement to its employees and to the public that they have plans to majorly cut production including 4 truck plants. The slow in the economy and high gas prices is obviously a major factor in the decision that GM is making in the upcoming months. Surprisingly Rick Wagoner, GM’s CEO, announced possible closing of plants that make many GM SUV’s and trucks with a mention of a possible removal or sale of Hummer which may remove this brand from the market all-together.

This may come as a surprise when you listen to Rick Wagoner mention the closing of plants that produce the Chevy Tahoe/GMC Yukon. We all know that is a big monster in the SUV market but we also know the SUV market is diminishing very fast mainly due to the fact that SUV’s consume A LOT of gas and the economy just cannot support the high price of such vehicles.

CNN.com posted the news this morning and reads:

GM: Trucks out, cars in

Automaker plans to shut 4 pickup and SUV plants, build more fuel-efficient vehicles, and may dump the Hummer brand.

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — General Motors announced plans Tuesday to shut four truck and SUV plants that employ thousands of workers. It also said high gas prices are here to stay – and, with them, consumers’ growing preference for more fuel-efficient vehicles.

At a news conference in Wilmington, Del., GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner announced plans to roll out more fuel-efficient vehicles, including approval to start the production process on a vehicle that can run gas-free for trips up to 40 miles.

But the plant-closing plans are a stunning admission from the nation’s largest automaker that its long dependence on large SUVs and pickups is no longer a viable strategy for a company struggling to end losses from its North American operations.

The plants to be closed include two U.S. facilities: The Moraine, Ohio plant that builds midsize SUVs, such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer and GMC Envoy; and the Janesville, Wisc., assembly line that builds large SUVs such as the Chevy Tahoe and Suburban and GMC Yukon.

In addition, it plans to close a pickup plant in Oshawa, Canada, and a truck plant in Toluca, Mexico.
The Mexican plant that builds medium-duty trucks sold to businesses rather than consumers will close later this year. The other plants will close in 2009 and 2010, with sooner closings possible if sales do not improve. Each U.S. plant has about 2,500 employees.

iReport.com: Still driving a gas guzzler?

The company said it believes that high oil and gasoline prices will be the norm, and that prices are likely to go higher due to strong global demand for oil.

“These higher gasoline prices are changing consumer behavior and rapidly,” said Wagoner. “We don’t think this is a temporary spike or shift. We think it is permanent.”
Goodbye Hummer Wagoner also said GM is looking at possibly selling its Hummer unit as part of a strategic review of the SUV brand based on military vehicles. The Hummer H3 mid-size SUV gets about 13 to 14 miles per gallon in city driving in the most recent EPA ratings. The H1 and H2 are larger vehicles on which EPA does not give mileage estimates.

The brand has become the symbol to many members of the public of a gas-guzzling large U.S. vehicle.
Hello Volt He also announced that GM has approved production of the Chevrolet Volt, a so-called plug-in hybrid vehicle that can run about 40 miles without any use of gasoline. The Volt will be built in GM’s Hamtramck, Mich., plant and is due in showrooms by the end of 2010.

Read more at cnn.com

Hummer H2 for sale

The all-new 2008 Saturn Vue five-door crossover vehicle comes with European-inspired design, sporty ride and handling characteristics. The Vue is the latest Saturn model to showcase the brand’s new design and intensified focus on driving characteristics.

The Vue Red Line ups the ante with higher levels of styling and performance for those drivers that want more from this multi-functional and versatile five seat crossover.
The Vue Red Line features an aggressive front-end design that includes powerful halogen headlamps, a large, lower air opening, a center grille with Saturn’s new chrome bar and badge, plus down below at the sides are projector beam fog lamps. From the side you’ll see short front and rear overhangs, a steeply racked windshield, flared front fenders, lower side extensions, a chrome strip around the greenhouse, and big, pull-out door handles. Giving the Vue Red Line a more aggressive stance is a lowered suspension, more aggressive 18X7in. performance tires and alloy wheels, all working together to enhance driving capabilities when traversing curving roads.
The rear of the Vue Red Line features a unique fascia, spoiler on top of the rear hatch to increase downforce, unique Red Line badging, and dual, chrome trapezoid exhaust tips.

The styling is taut and edgy, just what you want a high-performance crossover to look like.
Styling is one thing, backing it up with adequate power and sharp handling is another.
The Saturn Vue Red Line doesn’t disappoint with a high-performing V6, sport-tuned independent front/rear suspension, and strong brakes.

Power to make the Vue Red Line keep ahead of the traffic is generated from GM’s sophisticated high-feature 60-degree DOHC 3.6 liter all-aluminum V6 engine with VVT. This engine produces 257hp at 6,500rpm and 248lb.ft. of torque at just 2,100rpm. This modern V6 powerplant is mated to GM’s new Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic transmisison with standard tap up/tap down sequential shifter. This smooth shifting six-speed automatic helps maximize performance and economy and is easy and fun to use.

The Vue Red Line comes standard with front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive like the model that I tested. I would recommend ordering the optional AWD system to increase traction at launch or when traveling over slick or wet roads, maybe off-road too.

Sporty handling and a compliant ride over rough roads comes from the sport-tuned fully independent suspension. Up front is a MacPherson strut setup with specially tuned coil springs and direct-acting 26mm stabilizer bar. The double-isolated engine cradle adds to the specifically tuned ride and cancels out any noise, vibration or harshness during your ride. The rear independent setup includes trailing arms with three lateral locating links, gas-charged shocks, specifically tuned coil springs, and an indirect-acting 20mm stabilizer bar.

Guiding the Vue Red Line is by specially calibrated hydraulic-power assisted rack & pinion steering. On-center feel was excellent and it gave me a good feel for the road at speed. Augmenting the precise steering and keeping you out of trouble is all-speed traction control in conjunction with StabilTrak from Cadillac. Engine torque reduction and brake intervention when the system detects unwanted wheel-spin keeps you on your chosen path. Even though the all-new Saturn Vue Red Line weighs in at over 4,300lbs., the 257hp V6 VVT engine does the job of easily getting around slower moving traffic in the city and on the freeways. The sport-tuned suspension does a terrific job of keeping the car nicely balanced and level when in straight-line cruising or when attacking curving roads.
Strong, four-wheel vented steel disc brakes, front and rear, ensure that you will safely slow down from speed. Up front are 11.7in. discs clamped with dual-piston calipers and in the rear are 11.9in. discs clamped with large single piston calipers. Braking control is further enhanced with ABS. The pedal feel was very good on the Red Line model that I tested.
With a beautifully sculpted body, 257hp V6 mated to a smooth shifting 6-speed automatic turning all four 18in. wheels under a sport-tuned fully independent suspension, the new Saturn Vue Redline has got to be one of the best of the new breed of compact crossover utility vehicles.
Inside, the Vue continues the upscale theme with refined materials and precise fit and finish. From the outside the interior may seen to be small but once you open all four doors you’ll see a more spacious cabin with seating for five.

The interior offers a host of comfort and convenience features, many of which are not found in other brands in the segment. These include an optional 8-way power driver’s seat, standard flip-down second-row armrest with storage, standard AM/FM/CD stereo with MP3 capability and six speakers, available automatic climate control system with electronic controls, available navigation system with voice recognition, heated front seats and an optional enhanced convenience package that includes automatic rain-sensing wipers, remote start, universal home remote and heated windshield washer system.

Other cabin highlights include rich materials including chrome accents on the air vents, center stack controls, instrument cluster and speakers; bolstered seats upholstered with two levels of flat-woven fabric with specific inserts, leather seating is optional; a front center articulating armrest; low-gloss, low-glare upper instrument panel with embossed grain; amber backlighting in the instrument panel and center stack control faceplates; rear window defroster, power windows/door locks, cruise control, leather wrapped/tilting, door sill plates, steering wheel with auto controls, ample covered and damped storage compartments, including an illuminated, locking and oversized glove box; a sliding storage bin under the front passenger seat; a folding rear seat center armrest with storage; flat-folding 60/40 split rear seatback; a rear cargo management system that features removable, adjustable upper and lower rails and storage nets to contain a variety of items; storage beneath the cargo load floor; and a grab handle above each door.

The Vue Red Line gets an exclusive black interior, including leather sport seats with extra side bolstering with red stitching and perforated suede fabric inserts, unique Red Line instrument cluster graphics, and custom embroidered floor mats.
Safety and security is a top priority and the all-new Saturn Vue Red Line comes standard with a 1-yr. ONSTAR Safe & Sound subscription, stabiliTrak stability control, traction control, ABS brakes, head curtain side airbags, side thorax airbags, dual front airbags with passenger sensing system, 5-3-point safety belts with dual front seatbelt pretensioners, automatic headlamps, daytime running lamps, active head restraints, front, and rear crush zones, steel beams in each door, remote keyless entry and a theft deterrent system.
The all-new Saturn lineup has gone upscale with input from GM’s European design and engineering studios, and the evidence is plainly seen in the all-new Saturn Vue Red Line.
The Red Line gets unique aggressive styling, with engine, transmission and suspension upgrades to back it up. It’s especially good to see that GM is finally paying extra attention to the interior with higher levels of materials, design, comfort, convenience and safety in all of its brands. The base price for a Saturn Vue Redline AWD model is $28,770.00. My test model came with navigation and the advanced audio system for $31,240.00.

Wheelbase: 106.6in.
Overall length: 180.1in.
Overall width: 72.8in.
Overall height: 67in.
Track: f/r-61.4/61.8in.
Fuel tank: 16.7 gallons
Minimum ground clearance: 7.8in.
Curb weight: 4,325lbs.
Headroom: f/r-40.2/39.3in.
Legroom: f/r-40.7/36.9in.
EPA interior volume: 126.9cu.ft.
Cargo volume: behind front seat-56.4/behind 2nd. row seat-29.2cu.ft.
Towing capacity: 3,500lbs.
EPA mileage specs: 16mpg/city, 22mpg/highway