Northstar

Some very good improvements it seems, but it really needs an engine to that would appeal to import-minded buyers.

The powertrain is unique, and probably affords better gas mileage than a comparably powered V6. The interior is really nice, although it looks like they stole the design from the Range Rover. The exterior, though, is horrible. It will sell though, it's a Honda.

Damn, that looks really good in those real-life pics. Too bad they didn't post any shots of what it's like to sit in the rear.

Everyone, please respond to this thread: http://www.cheersandgears.com/forums/index...wtopic=7743&hl=

*IF ANYONE FROM GM IS READING THIS* ---------- The generic, indistinct wheel design that debuted on the Aura XR is the one aspect that detracts from the production exterior's progressive overall appearance. I applaud GM for remaining so true to the concept's winning sheetmetal, but the wheels are unfitting of the design's otherwise athletic demeanor and hinder it's ability to stand out in an oversaturated market. Subsituting the wheels for a sportier (if still understated) alternative like those on the Sky or even the Outlook would accent the Aura's exterior far more effectively. The XR's current wheel design looks more suited to the XE trim, rather than the uplevel XR. The Aura has what it takes to turn Saturn around. Don't allow something as frivolous as wheel options to cause it to blend in. ---------- In addition, the black plastic incorporated in and around the HVAC and stereo controls take away from an otherwise very nice interior design. The unattractive black plastic sticks out like a sore thumb and would look much better if the Piano Black finish from the Sky along with aluminum instead of the wood was implemented into the design. An interior with a stunning Piano Black center stack would do wonders to set the Aura's interior apart from the pack. In addition, the Outlook's interior would also be even better with the Piano Black finish on the center stack. ---------- Thank You What does everyone think?

Ok, tomorrow I'm starting a thread with Bimmer's post and a post about the piano black finish, having EVERYONE respons with a "Hell yes, build it with better wheels and piano black on the radio controls!" and then sending the link to Lutz. In fact, I might as well do it right now.

Here are some colors I did: http://www.cheersandgears.com/forums/index...?showtopic=7741

It looks much improved with those wheels, nice job.

New pic:

Here is a higher resolution pic of the one Ghost Dog posted: I added it to the original post as well.

The Civic would win interior and fuel mileage, the Cobalt would win basically every performance test and exterior style.

The red one behind it looks so much better (I think it's a poster or something). I think they picked a poor color to show it in.

Aluminum trim will be availabe :AH-HA_wink: BTW, here is a higher-resolution shot of what Ghost Dog posted:

If GM changes CEOs, I'm pretty sure they'd go bankrupt by the time that one could implement his plan. We might as well stick with the Wagoner plan and see if we can't get through this.

There were numerous complaints about the EPS, and it really isn't responsive at all when you're driving. Hydraulic is much better, EPS was a good idea (possibly), executed poorly.

Thank you and you're welcome. We try our best to get the information up ASAP. As others mentioned, there were others working behind-the-scenes.

I had it a couple minutes ago. I don't know if this is why it went away, but I closed the window and opened up a new one and it was fine.

The SKY is off the charts. There's no reason for anyone to buy a Miata of any type now. Now hopefully the infuse this design into the next Astra!

I agree the 2.4 is needed. First, for better mileage, and more importantly because a lot of Camry and Accord buyers don't care if they have a V6 or an I4 as long as it gets them from point A to point B. A very large percentage of Camry and Accord sales are with I4s, and the Aura should offer one if it wants to compete for those sales.

I agree with Croc on the rear door curves. This type of vehicle needs to be functional, and as-is it will be much more functional for families who need easy entry and exit than if it had the "curve." Offering a SWB model would be a waste of money because it would compete too closely with the VUE. I feel the Outlook is second in class only to the Enclave (assuming the production version is 95% of the concept). This crushes almost everything, IMO. The interior is a lot better than anything it's going to be competing with, it looks pretty good on the outside (especially for an SUV), and the cargo hauling capability kicks ass.

Who says we couldn't see the metallic trim later on? I wouldn't be surprised to see it on the Redline and maybe even other models. I think the Aura looks pretty damn good for a midsize family sedan, and way better than the Accord or Camry. The interior needs a few touch-ups (I'm not a huge fan of the wood) to make it really good, but it is a pretty good effort right now and certainly competitive with the Accord and Camry. Now to get Lutz to put an I4 in there with a 5-speed manual.

The cargo volume could be a HUGE selling point considering that GM never has really had a vehicle like this that was/is affordable and has fold-flat seats.

Hmm, I don't know. The crease seems a little too low and it looks like more of a refresh than redesign.

SATURN AURA PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTED BY 3.6L V-6 VVT AND NEW SIX-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NEW YORK – The Saturn Aura sport sedan brings a new level of refinement and driving fun to the segment. Aura is built on GM’s global midsize car platform, which features a strong chassis and robust body structure that enables nimble, precise handling and enhances crashworthiness. Chassis and suspension highlights: • 112.3-inch (2,852 mm) wheelbase • MacPherson strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar • Four-link independent rear suspension • Hydraulic power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering • Four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS • Family of 17- and 18-inch wheel-and-tire combinations Aura is powered by either a 3.5L V-6 with variable valve timing (VVT) or a more powerful 3.6L DOHC V-6 with VVT. The 3.5L is backed by an efficient four-speed automatic, while the 3.6L engine is matched to a new Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic – the first GM vehicle to receive this new, fuel-saving transmission. 3.6L V-6 VVT The GM 3.6L V-6 VVT is standard in the Aura XR; it is rated at 252 horsepower (188 kw)* at 6300 rpm and 251 lb.-ft. of torque (340 Nm)* at 3200 rpm. The 3.6L V-6 is a state-of-the-art, DOHC engine jointly developed at GM technical centers in Australia, Germany, Sweden and the United States. It debuted in the Cadillac CTS sedan and SRX crossover vehicle. The engine uses full four-cam phasing, rapid date processing and torque-based engine management to optimize power, economy and emissions performance. Full four-cam phasing of the variable valve timing system ensures linear delivery of torque across the engine’s rpm band, while features such as electronic throttle control deliver crisp, immediate response and feedback. The engine uses electro-hydraulic vane-type phasers to rotate the camshafts relative to the cam-drive sprockets, allowing infinitely variable combinations over a range of 50 degrees. Additional engine features include: • Aluminum cylinder block with iron cylinder sleeves • High-flow aluminum cylinder heads • Four valves per cylinder • Dual-stage variable intake manifold • Sequential dual spray port fuel injection • Coil-on-plug ignition system • Electronic throttle control with integrated cruise control The aluminum-intensive 3.6L V-6 also is designed to deliver smooth, quiet performance with durability. The camshaft drive incorporates a new, smaller pitch chain, which provides quieter operation. Other elements, including the cam covers, intake manifold and direct-mounted accessories are designed to reduce or eliminate conventional points of noise, vibration and harshness. A long operating life is driven by heavy-duty and special components, such as a forged steel crankshaft, polymer-coated pistons and oil jets that drench the bottom of the pistons with cooling, lubricating oil. Hydra-Matic 6T70 automatic transmission The new Hydra-Matic 6T70 electronically controlled, six-speed automatic transmission is matched with the Aura XR’s 3.6L V-6. It is an advanced transmission with state-of-the-art clutch-to-clutch shift operation, designed for high-performance front-wheel drive applications. Clutch-to-clutch operation allows for reduced complexity and compact packaging. A wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio helps the transmission deliver both performance and fuel economy – enabling up to 8 percent improved performance and up to 4 percent improved fuel economy when compared with current front-wheel drive four-speed automatics. The 6T70’s six-gear configuration allows for a “steep” 4.48:1 first gear, which helps deliver exceptional launch feel, and a 0.74:1 overdrive sixth gear. This “tall” overdrive gears lowers rpm at high speed, reducing noise, vibration and harshness. The transmission’s fifth gear is 1:1 direct drive. Shorter steps between the gears, compared with a four-speed automatic, enhance performance and feel, as the transmission quickly finds the best gear for the vehicle speed and road conditions. Also, the transmission offers the capability of driver shift control (DSC), which allows the driver to use tap-up/tap-down shifting to select the desired gear for specific conditions, such as downhill grades where lower gears can take advantage of engine braking. 3.5L V-6 VVT The Aura XE’s 3.5L V-6 with VVT is rated at 224 horsepower (167 kw)* at 5900 rpm and 220 lb.-ft. of torque (298 Nm) at 4000 rpm.* Perhaps the most significant technological feature of the new 3.5L V-6 is the adaptation of variable valve timing – a first for cam-in-block engines. The system incorporates a vane-type camshaft phaser that changes the angular orientation of the camshaft, thereby adjusting the timing of the intake and exhaust valves to optimize performance and economy, and help lower emissions. It offers infinitely variable valve timing in relation to the crankshaft. The cam phasing creates “dual equal” valve timing adjustments – the intake valves and exhaust valves are varied at the same time and at the same rate. The 60-degree configuration of the 3.5L engine is naturally balanced, ensuring drivetrain smoothness and eliminating the need for balance shafts. The engine differs from previous GM 60-degree designs with its offset cylinder bores, meaning the intersection of the cylinder bores’ centerline is not at the crankshaft centerline. Instead, the intersection is 3 mm below the crankshaft axis. This was done to allow packaging room for the relatively wide cylinder bores. Additional technical highlights of the new 3.5L V-6 include piston-cooling oil jets, polymer-coated pistons, steel crankshaft, electronic throttle control, 58X Quick Sync ignition and high-flow aluminum cylinder heads. The engine is teamed with a Hydra-Matic 4T45 electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. Traction control is standard with this combination. Chassis structure The Aura’s architecture is a solid structure that enables a 26.8 Hz bending frequency – a rigid foundation that ranks with the world’s best luxury cars. Three integrated torque rings contribute much of the body structure’s strength. Tied into complementing structural members, the torque rings add stiffness-enhancing support to key areas of the architecture. The rear torque ring, for example, ties the package tray horizontally to structural members on opposite sides of the chassis. This not only enhances overall strength, but still allows a generous rear-seat pass-through from the trunk. Another one of the torque rings includes the magnesium cross-car beam that forms the foundation for the instrument panel. This “mag” beam is lightweight, but extremely stiff, and contributes greatly to Aura’s solid feeling behind the wheel and side-impact crash protection. In addition to the torque rings, the structure also benefits from extensive use of high-strength steel (HSS) – comprising approximately 60 percent of underbody components. It is used primarily in critical areas, including the front and rear structures, longitudinal rails and rocker panels. HSS also is used in a strong, reinforcing “backbone” that forms the floor’s center tunnel. Rather than just a single layer of sheet steel, the tunnel has an extra piece of HSS welded between it and the floor pan, running the length of the tunnel. Ride and handling With a strong structure, the ride and handling attributes of the Aura were tuned during development to a high degree of precision because chassis flex wasn’t a primary concern. Large-car suspension proportions – 112.3-inch (2,852 mm) wheelbase and approximately 60-inch (1,524 mm) front/rear tracks – packaged within midsize vehicle dimensions also enable a smooth ride and firmly-planted handling traits. Aura has fully independent front and rear suspensions, including a MacPherson strut front suspension, with direct-acting stabilizer bar, and a four-link rear suspension. The front suspension is carried by a perimeter-type chassis cradle assembly, which consists of a U-shaped hydroformed steel tube welded integrally with a rear cross member. The cradle is isolated from the chassis by four widely spaced rubber mounts that dampen noise, vibration and harshness. Handling is augmented in the Aura XR with standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control. The system uses a yaw sensor, lateral accelerometer and steering angle sensor to help keep the vehicle under control in the most challenging driving conditions. The system applies braking at any of the four wheels as required to help maintain control. All models feature standard four-wheel disc brakes with standard four-channel ABS. Braking capability is enhanced with large, vented front discs and Dynamic Rear Proportioning (DRP). With DRP, improved stability and braking during cornering results from the use of independent rear control. DRP also allows more effective use of the rear brakes as vehicle loading changes. The Aura’s hydraulic power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system is tuned to provide sharp, immediate responsiveness and a linear, direct feel at all speeds. Aura’s ride and handling traits are conveyed to the road via standard 17-inch wheels and tires on XE and 18-inch wheels and tires on XR. Full wheel covers are standard on XE, with machine-face alloy wheels available. Aura XR’s 18-inch wheels feature an ultra-bright finish. *Pending SAE certification. A new voluntary power and torque certification procedure developed by the SAE Engine Test Code committee was approved March 31, 2005. This procedure (J2723) ensures fair, accurate ratings for horsepower and torque by allowing manufacturers to certify their engines through third-party witness testing. GM was the first auto manufacturer to begin using the procedure and expects to use it for all newly rated engines in the future.

***Pics added at bottom*** SATURN AURA RADIATES STYLE, REFINEMENT Dynamic new sedan features fuel-saving six-speed auto; hybrid model coming NEW YORK – With the launch of the 2007 Sky this spring, Saturn kicks off its most extensive product revitalization to date. Next to market is the all-new 2007 Aura midsize sedan, unveiled today. Based on last year’s concept car of the same name, the Aura blends Saturn’s new European-influenced design and high levels of refinement with the brand’s customer-focused purchase and ownership experience. The Aura’s driving character will match its refined design, with a host of technologically sophisticated powertrains and a premium sport-sedan setup. Uplevel models feature GM’s first application of a new six-speed automatic transmission mated with the 3.6L DOHC V-6, creating a powerful yet fuel-efficient package. Later in the 2007 model year, Saturn will offer the Aura Green Line, a 2.4L Ecotec-based hybrid that will use a powertrain system similar to the Vue Green Line. It marks the first application of a hybrid powertrain in a GM passenger car. “The bold, sophisticated design of the Aura represents another step in Saturn’s revitalization,” said Jill Lajdziak, Saturn general manager. “This is a fun-to-drive sport sedan that will appeal both to current Saturn owners and to those who have never considered shopping at one of our retail stores.” When it goes on sale late this summer, the Aura will be available in two trim levels: the entry XE model and uplevel XR. Each model is well-equipped, with premium features and interior materials among the best in its segment. Bold new design Based on the dramatic concept vehicle unveiled in 2005, the Aura sports sedan carries much of the concept’s bold design. Seen in other new Saturn models, such as the Sky roadster and Outlook crossover vehicle, these elements – including distinctive headlamps with jewel-like appearance and a chrome grille bar – establish a new design language for Saturn’s growing portfolio of vehicles. “The design language of the Aura – and other new Saturn models – is technical and conveys a premium appearance,” said Clay Dean, GM design director for small and midsize cars. “From the detailed lighting elements to the edginess of the silhouette, the Aura demonstrates a revitalized emphasis on style and performance.” Aura’s premium design cues include halogen headlamps covered in clear housings that wrap upward and around the corners of the vehicle. This expressive, jewel-like design feature shared among Saturn’s newest models adds a sense of motion to the vehicle, even when stationary. At the rear of the vehicle, LED tail lamps are employed to enhance Aura’s technical ethic while also providing an extra measure of safety. LED lamps illuminate more quickly than conventional incandescent bulbs, which can allow drivers behind the Aura to react sooner when they see the brake lamps. Additional design details include a radio antenna integrated in the rear window, for a sleeker overall appearance, and a chrome appearance for the door handles on XR models. Standard 17-inch wheels and tires fill the wheel houses, enhancing the vehicle’s sporty, firmly planted stance. XR models come with 18-inch polished, 14-spoke cast aluminum wheels and performance tires. Aura is available in nine exterior colors: Berry Red, Black Onyx, Bronzed Pewter, Cream White, Golden Cashmere, Midnight Blue, Ocean Mist, Silver Pearl and Techno Grey Refined interior A major focus of the Aura’s design is its refined interior, which sets a new standard for the Saturn brand. Premium materials with low-gloss appearance and tight tolerances throughout exhibit excellent fit and finish, while two-tone color combinations for the trim and upholstery exude contemporary style. The interior trim flows across the instrument panel and wraps around onto the door panels for a more integrated appearance. Select use of chrome trim also accents the interior. The gauge cluster uses LED-lit analog instruments, with amber lighting and animation at startup. LEDs are also used for ambient light projected from the overhead lamp and door pocket lamps. Self-dimming theater lighting enhances the premium feel and provides added convenience at night. Aura’s front reclining bucket seats are designed to provide firm support and comfort on long drives. Leather seating is available, including finely detailed embossed leather seat inserts with the XR’s optional Morocco Brown interior. Aura’s other interior features include: • Automatic climate control • Center console with dual-bin storage and automatic sliding tambour door covering front cupholders and storage area • Driver information center • Optional power-adjustable pedals • Available eight-way power-adjustable driver seat • Optional heated front seats, available in cloth or leather • Universal home remote • Power windows with driver express up and express down feature • Steering wheel audio controls • Four-panel sliding Panoramic roof A diverse range of audio systems also is available, all from GM’s new family of premium radios that feature intuitive controls and flush mounting for enhanced refinement. A six-speaker radio system is standard and includes an auxiliary input jack for portable audio players. Saturn’s Advanced Audio System also is available. It includes an AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio with eight-speaker sound, a 240-watt amplifier and rear-seat audio controls with two wireless headphones. XM Satellite Radio is available on all models. Refined performance Saturn offers two powertrains at launch that provide the Aura’s power and performance for a refined on-road feel. Standard on XE models is the 3.5L V-6 with variable valve timing (VVT). This powerplant, mated with the 4T45-E, four-speed automatic, generates 224 horsepower (167 kw) and 220 lb.-ft. of torque (298 Nm ).* The 4T45-E is a four-speed, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive transaxle with an electronically controlled torque converter clutch noted for its low noise, high durability and smooth shifting. Uplevel XR models are equipped with the 3.6L DOHC V-6 with VVT, rated at 252 horsepower* (188 kw) and 251 lb.-ft. of torque (340 Nm).* This engine is mated with the all-new Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission, the first application of this important addition to the GM Powertrain portfolio. The transmission allows for strong performance combined with strong fuel efficiency. In addition, the 6T70 – GM’s first application of a front-wheel drive six-speed automatic transmission – will provide the added benefit of Driver Shift Control (DSC), which enables the driver to manually shift through gears via steering wheel-positioned “paddles.” The Aura is built on a stiff, robust chassis that serves as the foundation for a satisfying driving experience. The vehicle’s long wheelbase provides a smooth ride, while careful tuning of the suspension provides sharp and immediate response to driver input. Safety features The Saturn Aura is designed for strong safety performance in all measurements. A safety cage construction built into the body structure is complemented with reinforced rocker sections, as well as a reinforced front body hinge pillar and roof pillars that were designed to improve impact protection. A magnesium cross-car beam unites the lower sections of the A-pillars. It helps protect passengers in side-impact crashes and also serves as the foundation of the instrument panel. High-strength steel was used in strategic areas to augment overall structural integrity. A comprehensive roster of standard features helps protect occupants before, during and after a crash. Aura’s standard safety features include: Dual-stage frontal air bags with GM Passenger Sensing System: The system works with the front passenger seat and differentiates between adults – 5 th percentile females and larger – and small children or child seats to adjust air bag deployment, which can help reduce the risk of air bag-induced injuries. Head curtain side-impact air bags: For the driver and front passenger, these air bags offer added protection for the head and thorax during side-impact crashes. Front seat-mounted thorax protection air bags: These air bags add an additional margin of protection to front seat passengers, protecting the chest cavity of driver and/or passenger when deployed in a side-impact crash. Front safety belt pretensioners: Deploying at the same time as the frontal air bags, they take up slack in the safety belt webbing to minimize occupant movement during a crash. LATCH child safety seat anchors: Two lower anchors and a top tether anchor secure the child seat to the vehicle seat structure for proper installation of compatible child safety seats. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS: Large, 11.65-inch (296 mm) vented front and 10.63-inch (270 mm) rear rotors help provide smooth, quick and assured stopping capability. Four-channel ABS is standard on all models. StabiliTrak electronic stability control system (Aura XR): Partnered with the ABS system, StabiliTrak provides more precise, controlled stops, as well as enhanced traction/yaw stability during emergency maneuvers. Traction control (Aura XE): Wheel slip sensors convey signals to an electronic control module, which alters the torque output of the engine to find optimal traction in slippery conditions. OnStar is standard on all models with a one-year Safe and Sound plan, featuring the Advanced Automatic Crash Notification system. This post-crash notification system makes crash data available to emergency services, potentially dispatching appropriate life-saving personnel and equipment to the crash scene faster. If the crash activates an air bag, the OnStar system automatically notifies an OnStar advisor, who immediately calls the vehicle and/or summons emergency help. 2007 SATURN AURA PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS *Pending SAE certification. A new voluntary power and torque certification procedure developed by the SAE Engine Test Code committee was approved March 31, 2005. This procedure (J2723) ensures fair, accurate ratings for horsepower and torque by allowing manufacturers to certify their engines through third-party witness testing. GM was the first auto manufacturer to begin using the procedure and expects to use it for all newly rated engines in the future.