2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid Consumer Reviews

Disappointed

Written by: Disappointed on 06/23/2008

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid Green Line 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 4A)

Review

Very disappointed with gas mileage. Only 10-15 percent better than non hybrid Saturn. Honda Civic and Toyota Prius hybrids get 40% better gas mileage than non-hybrid Civic. Chevrolet dealer calls Saturn hybrid system the "Half-Hybrid" because it is only belt driven from the heavy duty alternator-generator when the gas engine shuts off at intersection red lights. Will only run 2mph on battery after stopping, compared to 20mph for Toyota Prius. Saturn Hybrid battery is much smaller. Also, only qualified for one-half the tax credit compared to a Honda Civic hybrid. Also very disappointed in General Motors restricting their dual stage hybrid to their large SUV gas guzzlers and pickup truck

Favorite Features

Stylish and looks like a Chevrolet Malibu or an expensive import.

Suggested Improvements

Saturn should produce a full hybrid economy car with 40% gas mileage increase in place of the Saturn hybrid 10-15% increase. Very disappointed.

38 out 45 people found this review helpful

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Good Value

Written by: Mike H on 06/07/2008

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid Green Line 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 4A)

Review

We are happy with our Saturn Aura. Combination City/Highway is in the low 30's. Not bad for a car that comfortabley seats 4. If you drive it right on the highway, you can get close to 40 mpg. I'd buy it again.

Favorite Features

Lots of safety gear. Handles very nice.

Suggested Improvements

Don't like not having a spare tire. Perhaps run flat tires would be good.

23 out 26 people found this review helpful

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Gas mileage could be better

Written by: Jim on 04/04/2008

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid Green Line 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid 4A)

Review

This car drives nicely, is solid, and quiet. I am getting an overall average of about 29 MPG. My main observation is that the battery and electric motor are not contributing enough to the task of moving the car. The battery gets charged easily; the gasoline engine stops when you come to a stop saving some fuel; the discharge of the battery in highway driving or accelerating is enemic. For the price it is a reasonable value but the efficiency balance does not seem correct (electric motor vs gasoline engine).

Favorite Features

Suggested Improvements

908 out 977 people found this review helpful

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