Acceleration

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
5	5	5.5

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

Fuel Economy

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
4	4	3.6

In Consumer Guide testing, a 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 gas.

Ride Quality

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
6	6	5.5

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

Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
5	5	4.4

Impressive for a vehicle this size. Body lean is well controlled. The steering feels natural and progressive. Outlook's sheer size is a hindrance in close-quarter maneuvering.

Quietness

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
7	7	5.4

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

Controls

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
7	7	6.3

Gauges are large, clear, and conveniently backlit even with headlights off. Controls are logically placed, including an intuitive audio deck.

Details

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
6	6	5.4

Outlook's interior combines soft-touch surfaces with hard plastic to overall good effect, though some testers find the fabric upholstery lacks quality feel. One test vehicle suffered an intermittent rattle from beneath the front-seat-area floor.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
9	9	7.1

Among the largest midsize SUVs, Outlook's cabin feels especially roomy. Supportive seats. High step in, but it's lower than in most traditional truck-type SUVs. Fine outward visibility thanks to big mirrors and unobtrusive rear headrests. The view to the front corners is partially 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 the available bucket seats. The 2nd-row bench seat affords ample headroom and legroom, 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 are far better than even some large SUVs, and there's adult-size room for even mid-distance trips.

Cargo Room

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
10	10	8.6

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

Value within Class

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
9	10	5.8

This impressive SUV is a Best Buy for its near large-class 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

2WD XE	AWD XR	Class Average
75	76	63.7

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		53
Average Score		63
High Score		76