Car Reviews 2026 Saturn Aura Xr Sedan

For the first two decades of its existence, foreign manufacturers ran rings around Saturn. Saturns weren’t bad cars, they just weren’t compelling. A little spartan inside, a little plain-Jane outside, a little buzzy in the engine compartment. You couldn’t go terribly wrong with a Saturn, you just wouldn’t be terribly excited.Now however, it appears that you can go perfectly right with a Saturn. The Aura XR, the top model in the Aura line, is a world class competitor for the best the Asian manufacturers have to offer and gives the Europeans a run for their Euros. Based on the same platform as the European Opel Vectra, the Aura has a distinctly continental flavor. Whereas previous Saturns had a distinctly downmarket feel, everything about the XR feels upscale, and looks well made.The example that I drove had the Morocco Brown leather interior, a huge sunroof and woodgrain trim, yet stickered for under $30,000. It felt, drove and sounded like a car that cost many thousands more. Switchgear clicks satisfyingly, doors close with an appropriate thunk, and the styling of the dash and center stack is pleasing to the eye.All primary controls fall readily to the hand and the toddling-around-town driving experience is very satisfying. Then, step smartly into the right pedal, and hang on. This is one fast rocket, with 60 mph coming at you in 6.4 seconds, through a smooth as buttah six-speed automatic transmission. But do hang on — there is some significant torque steer to deal with. A loose grip on the wheel could have you changing lanes unintentionally. But, paying attention delivers great, and quick, rewards.The handling, aside from the torque steer, is quick and responsive. Although not quite up to BMW levels, neither is the sticker price. The ride is compliant and comfortable with good control over expansion joints, bumps and potholes alike.It is hard to imagine a Saturn causing second thoughts in Audi, BMW or Mercedes C-class buyers, but this car will deliver 90% of the grins at 60% — 70% of the cost, comparably equipped. A few nits to pick though: why is there no navigation or manual transmission option? Although the Aura does offer quick, steering wheel mounted paddles to manually shift the automatic, that is no substitute for a true manual with a clutch. And unfortunately the lack of navigation alone will eliminate some conquests from the European brands.One nifty feature the Aura does offer, however, is separate audio controls mounted on the back of the center console for rear seat passengers. Those passengers can dial up totally separate audio programming from that in the front, and listen through included wireless headphones.This Saturn is a viable alternative to entry luxury European sedans. Consequently, anyone in the market for a mid-size sedan, and anyone giving consideration to a Passat, Accord, Camry or Altima, should give some serious consideration to the Saturn Aura. Who knows, it may even cast its pleasing glow over the entire Saturn line. Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil