2007 Saturn Outlook Road Test - Consumer Guide Automotive

Our road test for the 2007 Saturn Outlook includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Saturn Outlook from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Saturn Outlook, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Saturn Outlook help you decide if a 2007 Saturn Outlook is right for you.

2007 Saturn Outlook Road Test

Pros	Cons

Passenger and cargo room	Maneuverability

Drivetrain refinement

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
5	5	5.2

Surprisingly strong for a large, heavy vehicle with a V6 engine. Outlook is particularly impressive in highway merging and passing. Transmission's smooth, quick shifts contribute to powertrain's polished performance.

Fuel Economy

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
4	4	4

Test 2WD XE averaged 16.0 mpg in mostly city driving. Test AWD XR averaged 17.5 mpg with more highway use. Outlook uses regular-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
6	6	5.5

Firm, but comfortably composed, devoid of sloppy motions. Larger bumps register, though are more heard than felt.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
5	5	4.5

Impressive for a vehicle this size. Body lean well controlled. Accurate steering with natural feel. Largish turning circle a minor hindrance in tight quarters.

Quietness

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
7	7	5.6

Generally hushed, though broken pavement can induce body drumming. Little coarse-surface tire thrum. Engine muted in routine driving, growls pleasantly under full throttle.

Controls

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
7	7	6.6

Gauges large, clear, backlit even with headlights off. Controls logically placed. Interior combines soft-touch surfaces with hard plastic to overall good effect, though some testers find fabric upholstery lacks quality feel. One test vehicle suffered an intermittent rattle from beneath front-seat-area floor.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
9	9	7

Among the largest midsize SUVs, Outlook's cabin feels especially roomy. Supportive seats. High step in, but it's lower than in most truck-type SUVs. Fine outward visibility thanks to big mirrors, unobtrusive rear headrests, though view to front corners obscured by thick front roof pillar bases.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
7	7	6.1

No opportunity to test with available bucket seats. Bench seat affords ample head and leg room, though some testers find thigh support lacking. Smart Slide 2nd-row seat has atypical fold action. Some testers found it confusing at first, though it quickly became routine. Seatbacks and cushion slide forward with a scissor action; it works well but requires more than one step to return to position. Access is tight but workable. Third-row accommodations far better than even some large SUVs, and adult adequate for even mid-distance trips.

Cargo Room

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
9	9	8

A high point. Good room behind 3rd row, which folds easily to create near-flat load floor. 2nd-row seatbacks also fold easily. Extra small-item storage in handy under-floor compartment. Generally good cabin storage includes large glovebox, multilevel console bin, roomy door pockets, though some testers say console bin too small for a vehicle this size.

Value within Class

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
9	10	5.9

This impressive SUV is a Best Buy for its near large-class SUV cargo and passenger accommodations, refined, responsive drivetrain, and car-like driving experience. Aggressive pricing and Saturn's strong reputation for customer service further enhance Outlook's appeal.

Total Score