Used 2009 Saturn Aura Consumer Reviews
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2009 Saturn XE
Bought this car new for my wife after her 2006 Saturn Ion(52K flawless miles). At 3k miles this Aura is also flawless. My wife loves it (she says even more than she loves me) and in Ocean Mist turns heads wherever she goes(she says it's her)... of course I have learned never to argue with a statement like that.
Transmission problems
Buyer Beware of transmission problems. The transmission "slipped" on my brand new 2009 Saturn Aura at 347 miles. I had to have it towed twice. The dealership returned it to me and assured me there was nothing wrong, despite the fact that I pulled out in front of traffic and could not accelerate. I was told to "...pull off to the side of the road, shut off the engine, then restart the car to 'reset' it." After this occurred the third time, I did as instructed, then drove it to the dealership, and left it there. I insisted it was dangerous, and I was now following the GA Lemon Law. They replaced the transmission at approximately 700 miles. I would rate my experience with Saturn a big 0.
Car That Works
Have owned a string of Hondas, Nissans and Toyotas and the Aura competes well with these vehicles while coming with more content at thousands less price. It was initially difficult to accept that it was a GM car. The 4 cyl performance works on hills and entering highways. Ride is quiet and will get better once OE tires are gone but that will take a long time. Mileage results so far support the EPA estimates. Looks great particularly since it comes with 17" wheels. Front seats are comfortable and adjust to fit (electric). Bluetooth for phone is a plus. Vehicle had preferred and convenience packages as no cost options. 5 star across safety!
Astounding
Wow, do I like this car. Great freeway cruiser, has almost identical dimensions to our Accord but 4 in longer wheelbase, which translates: smooth ride. Built on same platform as Saab 9-3. 6 speed trans works great, very responsive to shift down for speeding up or going up hills. Engine turns only 2k RPM at 70mph. Paddle shifters are handy at times but rarely use. Is eager to shift to overdrive for max fuel economy. If you can drive the speed limit, you can get 34 mpg highway. Very quiet, feels like a heavy, solid car but gets sporty when you throw it around. Nicely laid out interior is elegant and comfortable. I'm 6-3 and have lots of room. So sad these are the last of a great model.
The Aura is a real winner!
I think Saturn (GM) hit a home run with the Aura. It's sleek in an everyman's kind of way, has more useful gadgets than my toolbox, and the economy is outstanding. On the highway with cruise control at 70, I consistently enjoy 38 mpg; that's darn good in a non-hybrid mid-size sedan. The 2.4 liter 4-banger does just fine and I live in the mountains - of course, I'm not trying to jump every car off the line. The 6 speed automatic is smooth as glass, although with a bit of throttle hestitation - you do have to get used to it. I find the interior to be quite well done and ergonomically laid out. The seat fits me well and has proven quite comfortable on a 6 hour trip. I give Aura an A-.