2008 Saturn Aura in Richmond, VA - $5,995

Blending Saturn's new design language with high levels of refinement, the automaker introduced the all-new midsize Aura Green Line Hybrid sedan to its line-up last year. The front-drive Aura Green Line's driving character was engineered to match its refined design with a technologically sophisticated powertrain and a premium sports sedan set-up.

Assembled at the same manufacturing facility as the regular Aura sedan models, the Aura Green Line is powered by a hybrid system to combine sophisticated controls with a precise electric motor/generator mated to an Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder gasoline engine. Torque from the hybrid powertrain is communicated to the pavement through a Hydra-Matic 4T45 electronic four-speed automatic transmission.

The system delivers fuel economy gains by providing electric power assist during acceleration, through early fuel cut-off during deceleration with torque smoothing, and by shutting off the engine at idle. The system also captures electrical energy through regenerative braking.

Changes and upgrades for 2008 include standard an XM Satellite radio and heated, auto-dimming driver outside mirror being added to the available Convenience Package.

Designed for strong safety performance, a safety cage construction is built into the body structure and is complemented with reinforced rocker sections, as well as a reinforced front body hinge pillar and roof pillars 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.

Aura Green Line's rigid body architecture serves as a solid foundation for the control hardware. Suspension components include MacPherson struts with aluminum L-shaped control arms and a direct-acting stabilizer bar in front. At the rear, an independent four-link setup features twin-tube gas shocks, dual rate mini-block coil springs and a direct-acting stabilizer bar. Upmarket models replace the twin-tube gas shocks with monotube shocks.

A major focus of the Aura Green Line's design is its refined interior. Premium materials with a low-gloss appearance and tight tolerances throughout exhibit excellent fit and finish, while unique color combinations for the trim and upholstery exude contemporary styling. The interior trim flows across the instrument panel and wraps around to 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.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 112.3; overall length: 190.0; width: 70.3; height: 57.6 -- all vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder -– 164 hp at 6,400 rpm and 159 lbs-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm; hybrid motor/generator -– 4 kW (mechanical), 5kW(generating); battery pack –- NiMH 10 kW –- at peak power.

Transmission: four-speed automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 24 city/32 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 13.1 cu. ft.

Final assembly point: Kansas City, Kansas.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front/rear head curtain airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, OnStar communications system, automatic power door locks, automatic headlamp control, engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry, daytime running lights, traction control, tire pressure monitor and tire inflation kit.



Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 5-year/100,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Saturn Aura Green Line Hybrid sedan starts from $22,140. Destination charge adds $650.

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