2009 Saturn Outlook: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Saturn Outlook receives more power, a new Touring Package, and more available features. This crossover SUV shares its basic design with the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and premium-midsize Buick Enclave. Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive is available. Base XE and uplevel XR trims are offered. Both have a 3.6-liter V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. XEs have 281 hp, XRs 288, which is a bump of 11 and 13 hp, respectively. Standard seating is for eight with 2nd- and 3rd-row bench seats. XE and XR offer optional 2nd-row buckets for seven-passenger seating. All Outlooks have GM's Smart Slide 2nd-row seats designed to allow easier access to the 3rd row. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Remote engine start and DVD entertainment are available. Leather upholstery and heated front seats are standard on XR and optional on XE. Also newly available is a wireless cell-phone link. Rear-obstacle detection is available on both XE and XR, and a rearview camera is now available on all models for 2009, including ones without a navigation system. The available navigation system now includes real-time traffic updates. The Touring Package includes 20-inch wheels and rear fascia cutouts for the dual exhaust.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.