2009 Saturn Aura: Road Test
2009 Saturn Aura ▼
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- MSRP: $22,655 - $27,150
- Invoice: $21,182 - $25,385
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Our road test for the 2009 Saturn Aura includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Saturn Aura from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Saturn Aura, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Saturn Aura help you decide if a 2009 Saturn Aura is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 7 | 4 | 5.5 |
Conventional 4-cylinder models have good around-town power. The 6-speed transmission, though, sometimes gets caught in too high a gear, requiring a deep stab of the throttle and a sharp, two-gear downshift to summon more power. XR V6 models are lively in all situations; our test example reached 60 mph from a stop in an impressive 6.5 seconds.
Hybrids are slower than other Auras, but they cope reasonably well with traffic. The hybrid system is almost imperceptible in operation.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 7 | 5.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a 4-cylinder Aura averaged 22.5 mpg. V6 versions averaged 20.4-21.8 mpg in city/highway driving, and 26.3 with more highway miles.
Test Hybrids averaged 22.1-26.9 mpg. All engines use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
Little difference in suspension tuning among all models. All have a firm but agreeable ride. Body control is generally good, though our testers noted some jiggle and body drumming on rippled surfaces, particularly on the XR V6. Hybrids are more comfortable all around.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 6 | 5.9 |
Aura always feels balanced and well-planted with modest cornering lean and good grip. Steering feels a bit vague and overboosted to some testers. Strong, stable braking is marred by oddly dull and heavy pedal action.
QUIETNESS
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Aura's main demerit here is marked coarse-surface tire thrum. Also, moderate wind rush at highway speeds. The V6 sounds pleasant enough, though it's not quite as smooth as the class leaders. The Hybrid's four-cylinder has to work hard to keep up with traffic, and is generally more intrusive.
CONTROLS
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
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
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Aura's cabin pleases with good quality surfaces and materials. The related Chevy Malibu, a more recent design, pleases even more. Some test Auras had disappointing panel gaps and unsightly seams.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Good six-footer headroom. Long seat tracks cater to even the lankiest riders. We're disappointed to see that power-adjustable pedals are no longer available. 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)
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | 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
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
Aura's trunk is class-average for volume and aperture size, but it's usefully shaped. The Hybrid's battery eats up some trunk space as well. The standard split folding rear seatback is a boon for versatility. Aura's Cabin lacks small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.3 |
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 Aura Hybrid is a budget-friendly alternative to the higher-priced Toyota Camry Hybrid, though in our testing, its fuel economy isn't dramatically improved over a non-hybrid 4-cylinder model.
Total Score
| XR 4-cylinder | XR V6 | Hybrid | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 65 | 67 | 66 | 63 |
Total Score: 66
Scores for all Midsize Cars
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