2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid
Based on analysis of 14 Aura-Hybrid reviews and test drives.
Saturn Aura Hybrid - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid ranks 16 out of 25 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 14 published reviews and test drives of the Saturn Aura Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Aura Green Line has a comfortable and functional cabin, and offers hybrid technology for less money than key competitors, but it can't compete with the performance of others in its class.
A practical cabin, attractive exterior and inexpensive price tag are the 2008 Saturn Aura Green Line's greatest attributes, according to most automotive reviewers. In addition, its hybrid technology makes it more fuel efficient than many of the affordable midsize sedans on the market today. But the Green Line is also criticized for shortcomings, especially compared to other hybrid vehicles. According to many, its fuel economy and power disappoint. CNN reports the Aura Hybrid is one of the least cost-effective hybrid sedans sold today, based on a value equation that weighs the car's premium against its annual fuel savings.
The Saturn Aura Green Line is only available in one trim, but the conventional Aura is available in three additional trims. If you're shopping for a hybrid sedan, consider the Toyota Camry Hybrid or Honda Civic Hybrid. If you want more power than a hybrid car can provide, consider the Honda Accord.
- "I almost want to call it the accidental hybrid, because at no point does it seem like the Aura tries to deliver an 'electrifying' experience. … If anything, the Aura Green Line is a classic case of you get what you pay for." -- Automobile.com
- "A solid option for potential Aura buyers who don't place a high priority on raw power. But get moving on your purchase, before Saturn sells enough cars to result in a tax credit reduction." -- AutoWeek
- "I would definitely consider buying this car, but not because it's fun to drive. The Aura hybrid is a nicely designed but sedate family sedan that gets better-than-average mileage and costs less than its main rivals. But if you're looking for a car with pep, this isn't the model for you." -- BusinessWeek
- "Sorry, Saturn, but we don't foresee long lines forming at the dealership for this budget hybrid." -- Car and Driver
Aura-Hybrid Performance - 5.5 (Mediocre)
Test drivers say the Aura's Green Line is a comfortable cruiser, not a fun and exciting one. AutoWeek reports, "It accelerates well from a stop -- aided initially by boost from the electric motor -- and cruises unstressed at 80 mph and faster. However, it does feel underpowered during hard acceleration in the middle of the rev range." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn the differences between Aura's mild hybrid technology and that of other hybrid sedans. continue
Aura-Hybrid Exterior - NA
Compared with other hybrids, Automobile.com sums up the majority opinion on the Saturn Aura Green Line: "Unanimously, we adore the way the Aura looks; it's the most handsome car here, bar none." Check out the Aura Green Line Photo Gallery to see where Aura places its hybrid badge, or continue with our full Exterior Review learn more about the car's well-proportioned lines. continue
Aura-Hybrid Interior - 7.7 (Good)
The 2008 Aura Green Line's cabin makes a positive impression on auto writers. BusinessWeek says, "There's nothing fancy about the Aura's interior, but it's clean-looking, roomy, and functional." The Aura Green Line Photo Gallery shows images of the cabin as well as shots of what's under the hood, while our full Interior Review gives opinions on the quality of cabin panels and the comfort of the seats. continue
Aura-Hybrid Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)
In addition to having a number of standard safety features, the 2008 Saturn Aura Green Line scores very well in government crash tests. Continue with our full Safety Review for the Green Line's crash test scores, plus to learn more about the OnStar ® technology. continue
Aura-Hybrid Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Aura Green Line has a three-year or 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. The full Reliability Review gives more information on Saturn's transferable powertrain warranty. continue