Though the drivetrain is humble, this 2009 Saturn beats most of the competition in terms of appropriate power. Some buyers could opt for a hybrid model that will certainly boast higher fuel efficiency than the Astra, but those that want a gas-powered model with little impact on the environment will find that this station hatchback is a solid pick.

Under the hood, the 2009 Saturn Astra gets a standard 138 horsepower 1.8L I4 paired with a five-speed manual transmission. Buyers can opt for a four-speed automatic if desired as well. 125-lbs per foot of torque gives the Astra enough power to get from Point A to Point B, but some of the comparables have it beat. However, with 24 city MPG and 32 highway MPG this five-passenger model has one of the highest non-hybrid fuel estimates. This is due in part to the standard Variable Valve Timing that controls the exhaust and intake to save on both power and fuel consumption.

Inside, the Astra comes with a CD player (MP3 input jack on higher trims), a four-way adjustable driver’s seat, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls on the five-door XR and three-door XR trims. Power mirrors are standard on all trims, and charcoal metallic trim is included on the base trim while the higher trims get silver metallic trim. Packages that can be added to the 2009 Astra include the Advanced Audio Package, Premium Trim Package, and Sports Handling Package. Items like a six-disc in-dash CD changer, leather seating, and 17-inch machined alloy wheels are just a few that can be found in these packages. Also, there are a number of additional accessories that can be tacked on to give the Astra that personal touch.

Safety features like active front head restraints, rear door child safety locks, a passenger sensing system, and rain-sensing windshield wipers are all standard on the Saturn Astra. The windshield wipers automatically engage when moisture is detected, and the passenger sensing system will modify the airbag force and angle based on the front passenger’s position, mass, and height.

On the whole, the 2009 Saturn Astra is a strong competitor in its class. Families with children will appreciate the maker’s attention to safety details, and individuals should be pleased with the package options. Both will find that the fuel economy is notable. With an intro price of $17,045, the Astra is priced just a bit higher than some of the comparables, but with endorsements from Motorweek and Autoweek, it seems to be well worth the money.

Air-conditioning is standard on the Ion-3 (add $960 on the Ion-2.) The standard audio system on the Ion-2 is an AM/FM/CD combo with the Ion-3 adding MP3 capability. Options include a six-disc, in-dash changer and XM Satellite Radio.

Safety features include daytime running lamps, battery run-down protection, child-proof locks on the back doors, and front air bags that include dual-stage deployment as well as a sensor to determine the presence of a front passenger. Head-protecting side air bags are also standard, as are the emergency release handle for the trunk, and the steering column that absorbs excess energy. The features of the 2007 Saturn Ion are rounded out by crumple zones in the front and back of the car.

Both are powered by a 2.2 liter four-cylinder engine pushing 145 horsepower, and come standard with a five-speed manual transmission though a four-speed automatic transmission is an option. Estimated fuel economy on the Ion-2 is 26 mpg city, 35 highway with the manual (24/32 with the automatic) and 25/34 for the Ion 3 (24/32 with the automatic.)

Passenger volume on the vehicles is 93 cubic feet with headroom measuring 40 inches front and 37 rear. Leg room is 42.2 and 33.3 respectively. Cargo volume is 14.7 and fuel capacity is 13 gallons.

ION 1 base model was dropped from the lineup, new wheels added a striking new exterior appearance and the ION 3 was available with a new Enhanced Performance Options package that included a 2.4 liter engine that delivered 170 horsepower and a sport tuned suspension.

Recent improvements have substantially improved the overall quality and driving experience associated with the Saturn ION sedan, though the seats are still rather uncomfortable and offer little support. However, the five years/100,000 miles powertrain warranty that was made available as of the 2007 model year ups the anty a bit and the ION is impressive enough, especially in handling sharp curves, and still affordable enough for younger drivers.

These complaints from both the automotive consumer population in addition to industry experts has prompted Saturn to make some much needed improvements throughout the years, although the vehicle itself is still only in its first generation it was quick to become a more viable competitor in the compact car marketplace. The 2004 saw improved interior components and fabrics and a recalibrated automatic transmission improved the timing at which gears would change and the engines response. The most significant changes thus far occurred for the 2005 models, which sported a new front fascia and exterior trim, and an acoustic engine cover in addition to other sound decreasing enhancements that considerably improved the noise level. In 2006, the ION 1 base model was dropped from the lineup, new wheels added a striking new exterior appearance and the ION 3 was available with a new Enhanced Performance Options package that included a 2.4 liter engine that delivered 170 horsepower and a sport tuned suspension.

This line of vehicles was marketed to younger drivers and their need for an affordably priced vehicle with a sporty style. There were two models available when this compact economy car was first introduced, a sedan and a Quad Coupe, which remains the case through the 2007 model year with all models being equipped with front wheel drive. The Quad Coupe is designed to appear like a two-door coupe but actually has two almost invisible rearward-opening doors similar in style to those popular on extended-cab pickup trucks. For the new line of sedan, the base model ION Sedan 1 was the lowest priced and was also essentially bare boned in terms of features in comparison to the amenities standard in other small cars- but it was also priced considerably lower. The ION Sedan 2 had a few more comfort and convenience features, and the ION Sedan 3 even more, but all the sedans were powered by the same strong yet fuel efficient 2.2 liter inline 4 cylinder engine.

The Vue Hybrid’s BAS System stops the vehicle’s engine automatically once it comes to a stop and then starts it again when the driver wants to move on. The Vue’s battery collects and stores energy that is used for this purpose. Choosing the Vue Hybrid makes sense from the standpoint of fuel efficiency, since it is possible to save approximately 20 percent on your fuel costs by buying this model.

A second generation of the Saturn Vue Hybrid was launched at the 2007 Greater Los Angeles Auto Show. The version available at the start of the 2008 model year used the same mild hybrid technology as the previous generation. Buyers of this model will get 32 mpg on the highway and 25 mpg in the city.

Sometime in 2008, a new version is slated for release. The new Saturn Vue Hybrid will be a full hybrid model, based on GM’s Two-Mode System. Next on the company’s agenda is a plug-in hybrid vehicle.

The manufacturer, General Motors, refers to this feature as a BAS system, which stands for Belt/Alternator/Starter. This model also houses a battery pack under the rear cargo floor. An electronic controller and gauges for the driver complete the unit.

The Saturn Vue is considered a crossover vehicle in the SUV marketplace, and it is a top seller among North American buyers. The first generation of the Vue was launched for the 2002 model year. This type was offered to consumers from 2002-2007.

In 2006, the Saturn Vue was given some minor upgrades. Buyers appreciated the upgraded interior, with its improved materials, as well as the new grill and bumper. OnStar is offered on all model as a standard feature, as well as automatic headlights and cruise control.

Starting in 2004, Saturn’s Red Line of vehicles was introduced. This was designed for buyers who were interested in a high performance vehicle. One example of this Line is the L66 V6, which offered such features as a black leather and suede interior, 18 inch alloy wheels, and a better quality sound system.

The Automatic Occupant Sensing System will instantly gauge the dimensions and mass of a passenger and will accordingly adjust the airbag positioning and force to better protect the individual. A tire pressure monitoring system is also included. The digital readout in the instrument cluster allows drivers to keep a constant watch on the pressure in all four tires, and the system will alert drivers when a tire’s pressure is low or high. The OnStar program features instant accident alerts, roadside assistance, and remote door unlock. Remote door unlock gives owners of the VUE the ability to contact OnStar if they’ve locked the keys in the vehicle, and an OnStar representative will send a satellite signal to the vehicle to unlock the doors.

With 19 city MPG and 26 highway MPG, the 2009 Saturn VUE is at the forefront in fuel economy. Also, with the hybrid edition buyers can get an even more impressive 25 city MPG and 32 highway MPG. Priced at around $22,075, the Saturn VUE is also one of the most affordable crossovers on sales lots. Families will find that the VUE’s safety features and low price hit a high note, while individuals looking for contemporary styling and innovative accessories will be pleased with the model as well.

With all of the latest safety features, the Saturn VUE stands out in the crowd, and a higher towing capacity than most of the competition makes the VUE more adaptable. Not only that, the 2009 VUE hybrid edition gives the five-passenger model an eco-friendly edge that many crossovers are lacking in today’s auto industry.

Under the hood, the Saturn VUE can be fitted with a 169 horsepower 2.4L I4, a 222 horsepower 3.5L V6, or a 257 horsepower 3.6L V6. The VUE Hybrid comes standard with a 172 horsepower 2.4L I4 hybrid engine. With a four or six-speed automatic transmission available, buyers will be pleased with the level of customization that can be achieved in the VUE. Also, this 2009 model has generous power with up to 248-lbs per foot of torque in the XR and Red Line trims.

Inside, the Saturn VUE features a six-speaker audio system, power programmable door locks, and steering wheel controls. These controls allow the driver to manage the sound system and cruise control without even taking his or her hands off of the wheel. Power windows are also standard on the VUE. Available options include heated front seats, an MP3 compatible CD changer with a DVD-based navigation unit, and an advanced audio system. However, the navigation unit might be a negative for contemporary buyers that are usually looking for a hard-drive-based system that can constantly be updated with the current road conditions.

Newer Posts »