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Summary
The 2007 Saturn Aura is a classy, mid-size family sedan that combines front-wheel-drive dynamics with contemporary styling, a decent interior and very good fuel economy. It is safe and easy to drive. For drivers on a budget, the XE model should be enough. Buyers looking for something more refined in the driving department, as well as more interior features will prefer the XR. Either way, the Aura's attractive price and good fuel economy make it a compelling choice for buyers looking at Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Honda Accord and Ford Fusion.NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Steve Siler filed this report from Santa Barbara, California.
(Source: New Cars Test Drive)
Model Line Overview
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Model Lineup:
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Saturn Aura XE ($20,495); XR ($24,495) |
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Engines:
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3.6-liter dohc 24-valve V6 |
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Transmissions:
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6-speed automatic |
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Saftey Equipment (standard):
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frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags for first and second rows; traction control, ABS |
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Saftey Equipment (optional):
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electronic stability control |
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Basic Warranty:
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3 years/36,000 miles |
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Assembled In:
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Kansas City, Kansas |
Specifications As Tested
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Model Tested (MSRP):
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Saturn Aura XR ($23,945) |
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Standard Equipment:
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cloth upholstery, 8-way power adjustable driver seat, heated front seats, electronic climate control, 8-speaker sound system with in-dash 6CD/MP3, cruise control, remote engine start, power windows, power locks, tilt/telescope steering wheel, universal garage door opener, trip computer, heated exterior mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, fog lamps, 18-inch wheels |
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Options As Tested (MSRP):
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Enhanced Convenience Package ($425) includes a 6-way power passenger seat and power adjustable pedals,; premium floor mats ($100); XM radio ($199) |
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Destination Charge:
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650 |
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Gas Guzzler Tax:
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Price As Tested (MSRP):
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25319 |
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Layout:
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front-wheel drive |
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Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
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252 @ 6400 |
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Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
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251 @ 3200 |
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Transmission:
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6-speed automatic |
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EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
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20/28 |
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Wheelbase:
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112.3 |
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Length/width/height:
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190.0/70.3/57.6 |
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Track, f/r:
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59.9/60.3 |
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Turning circle:
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40.4 |
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Seating capacity:
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5 |
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Head/hip/leg room, f:
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39.4/53.0/42.2 |
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Head/hip/leg room, m:
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|
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Head/hip/leg room, r:
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37.4/52.2/37.6 |
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Cargo volume:
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15.7 |
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Payload:
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Towing capacity:
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1000 |
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Suspension, f:
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independent, MacPherson strut with stabilizer bar |
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Suspension, r:
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independent, four-link with stabilizer bar |
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Ground clearance:
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Curb weight:
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3647 |
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Tires:
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P225/50R18 |
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Brakes, f/r:
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disc/disc with ABS |
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Fuel capacity:
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16.3 |
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