Acceleration

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
6	7	4	5.6

We've not yet tested an XE-4. XE-6 delivers reasonably brisk takeoffs and decent highway passing punch. XR models are livelier in all situations; our test example reached 60 mph from a stop in an impressive 6.5 seconds. Aura's automatic transmissions are commendably smooth and responsive.

Hybrid Green Line is significantly slower than Aura 6-cylinders, but it copes reasonably well with traffic. The hybrid system is almost imperceptible in operation.

Fuel Economy

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
5	5	6	5.6

In Consumer Guide testing, Aura XRs averaged 20.4-21.8 mpg in routine driving, 26.3 with more highway use. No opportunity yet to measure with the XE-4. Test Green Lines averaged 22.1-26.9 mpg. All engines use regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
6	6	7	6

Little difference in suspension tuning between XEs, XR, and Green Line. All have a firm but agreeable ride. Body control is generally good, though our testers noted some jiggle and body drumming on rippled surfaces. Green Line rides on the smallest wheels and has the most comfortable ride of the three.

Steering/Handling/Braking

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
7	7	6	6

Near sports sedan agility. XE and XR always feel balanced and well-planted with modest cornering lean and good grip. Green Line, with smaller tires, has slightly less grip than XE and XR. Steering has a quick response, but not all testers are pleased with its weighting and road feel. Strong, stable braking is marred by oddly dull and heavy pedal action.

Quietness

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
6	6	5	6

Aura's main demerit here is marked coarse-surface tire thrum. Also, moderate wind rush at highway speeds. V6 engines sound pleasant enough, though neither is as smooth as the class leaders. Green Line's four-cylinder has to work hard to keep up with traffic, and it's generally more intrusive.

Controls

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
6	6	6	6.3

Gauges are large and legible. Controls are mostly handy and intuitive, though some testers find the steering-wheel controls a bit small for easy use.

Details

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
6	6	6	5.5

Aura's cabin pleases with soft-touch surfaces and quality materials, but test cars suffered some disappointing panel gaps and unsightly seams.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
7	7	7	6.7

Good six-footer headroom. Long seat tracks cater to even the lankiest riders. Optional power-adjustable pedals are a plus for shorter drivers. The available sunroof cuts into headroom a bit. Aura's seats are firm and well-padded, but some testers want more support in aggressive cornering. Visibility is just OK dead astern and to the right-rear, no problem otherwise.

Room/Comfort (rear)

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
6	6	6	5.1

Legroom is ample even with the front seats well back, and three grown-ups should not complain on shorter trips. Headroom is good for medium-height adults--but only without the sunroof. Six-footers must duck to clear the sloping roofline when entering or exiting, though wide door openings ease things somewhat.

Cargo Room

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
3	3	3	4

Aura's trunk is class-average for volume and aperture size, but it's usefully shaped. Green Line's battery takes up some space in the trunk. The standard split folding rear seat is a boon for versatility. Aura's Cabin lacks small-item storage.

Value within Class

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
7	8	8	6.2

This Recommended midsize sedan shines for its sporty road manners, comfortably controlled ride, and mechanical polish. It's also roomy and comfortable, feels solid, and offers a lot for the money, including essential standard safety features. The available Green Line is a budget-friendly alternative to the higher-priced Toyota Camry Hybrid. A final plus: Saturn's strong reputation for customer satisfaction.

Total Score

XE-6	XR	Green Line	Class Average
65	67	64	63

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score		48
Average Score		63
High Score		74