The four Saturn Aura models include: the 2.4L I-4 XE and XR; the 3.6L V-6 XR and the 2.4L I-4 Aura featuring the affordable GM Hybrid system.
The Aura Hybrid, featuring the affordable GM Hybrid system, is rated at 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. The XR V-6 model achieves 17 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Aura Hybrid The Aura Hybrid is equipped with the affordable GM Hybrid system, which reduces fuel consumption via sophisticated controls and a unique electric motor/generator mated to a 2.4L Ecotec VVT four-cylinder engine and Hydra-Matic 4T45 four-speed transmission. This innovative hybrid powertrain is rated at 164 horsepower (122 kW) of peak torque at 5000 rpm. While maintaining the vehicle’s sporty feel, the GM Hybrid system seamlessly reduces fuel consumption by:
* Shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, to minimize idling * Enabling early fuel shut-off during vehicle deceleration * Converting vehicle kinetic energy to electrical energy through regenerative braking to charge the advanced nickel metal hydride battery * Performing intelligent battery charging when it is most efficient
>GM to suspend 2009 Saturn Astra sales in US 3rd February 2009
General Motors has said that it will not sell the 2009 Saturn Astra compact car in the US as it has sufficient stock of the 2008 Astra to meet the demands of the US market, reported Automotive News.
The company claims that it has a 139-day supply of the Astra car, as of January 1, 2009. General Motors (GM) said that it will resume sales of the Astra only in late summer or early fall as a 2010 model.
The company, however, will sell the 2009 Saturn Astra in Canada.
Automotive News quoted Steve Janisse, Saturn spokesman, as saying: "We feel we have adequate stock of the 2008 Astra already. Since there were no major product changes for 2009, we're content with what we have on the ground here."