2007-2008 Saturn Outlook: Road Test

Acceleration is impressively strong for a large, heavy V6 vehicle--especially in highway merging and passing. Smooth, quick transmission shifts contribute to the powertrain's polished performance. Fuel economy trails some rivals. A test 2WD XE averaged 16.0 mpg in mostly city driving. An AWD XR averaged 17.5 mpg with more highway use. Outlooks use regular-grade gasoline. Ride quality ranks as firm, but Outlooks are comfortably composed and devoid of sloppy motions. Larger bumps are noticeable, though they're heard more than felt. Handling is impressive for a vehicle this size. Body lean is well controlled. Accurate steering has a natural, progressing feel. Outlook's sheer size, coupled with a rather large turning circle, become a minor hindrance in tight-quarters maneuvering. Outlooks are generally hushed, though broken pavement can induce body drumming. The V6 engine is muted in routine driving, but growls pleasantly under full throttle. Gauges are large, clear, and conveniently backlit, even with headlights off. Logically-placed controls include an intuitive audio deck. Interiors combine soft-touch surfaces with hard plastic to overall good effect, though some test-drivers have noted that fabric upholstery lacks quality feel. One test vehicle suffered an intermittent rattle from beneath the front floor. Among the largest midsize SUVs, Outlook's cabin feels especially roomy, with supportive front seats. High step-in is actually lower than in most truck-type SUVs. Fine outward visibility is aided by large mirrors and unobtrusive rear headrests, though views to front corners are obscured by thick front roof pillar bases. Outlook's second-row bench seat affords ample headroom and legroom, though some testers have declared thigh support lacking. The Smart Slide second-row seat has a typical folding action. Some testers found it confusing at first, though it quickly becomes routine. Seatbacks and cushion slide forward with an effective scissor action, though it requires more than one step to return to position. Rear access is tight but workable. Third-row accommodations are far better than many large SUVs and adult-adequate for even mid-distance trips. Cargo space is a high point, with ample room behind the third row, which folds easily to create a near-flat load floor. Second-row seatbacks also fold easily. Extra small-item storage is available in the handy under-floor compartment. Generally good cabin storage includes a large glovebox, multilevel console bin, and roomy door pockets. Some testers considered the console bin too small for a vehicle this size.

Value for the Money
Impressive overall, Saturn's Outlook is a Best Buy based on its spacious cargo and passenger accommodations (close to large-SUV class); refined, responsive drivetrain; and car-like driving experience. Aggressive new-car pricing added to its initial appeal. So did Saturn's strong reputation for customer service. On the downside, Outlook is nearly as long as a genuine full-size SUV, which impedes maneuverability. Relatively slow depreciation tends to keep used-vehicle prices slightly above average.