2008 Saturn Astra Overview
Overview MSN Autos
The newest addition to the Saturn lineup, the Astra—sold in Europe under the Opel name—will be offered in both 3-door or 5-door versions and only minor modifications were needed to bring it to the U.S. market.
Both the front and rear fascias have been updated to conform to U.S. bumper standards and the styling has been revised to include Saturn styling cues such as the bright grille bar with Saturn logo and a bright trim bar on the rear. Large wraparound taillights feature clear lenses and the center high-mounted stoplight uses LED technology.
The two body styles offer distinct profiles but both feature a sporty look with the wheels pushed out to the corners and fender flares wrapped tightly around the wheels. Underneath is the European developed suspension and according to Saturn, the Astra delivers both sporty performance with good fuel economy.
The Astra will be powered by a 140-horsepower 1.8-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission.
The Astra will be offered as a 5-door in either XE or XR trim levels while the 3-door will available only as a XR, which is geared toward enthusiasts with standard 17-inch aluminum wheels and available 18-inch aluminum wheels with performance tires. Five-door Astras have standard 16-inch wheels and available 17-inch aluminum wheels.
StabiliTrak electronic stability control system is standard on the 3-door and available on the 5-door as well. The steering is an electro-hydraulic rack-and-pinion system and is made more efficient by operating the power steering pump only when necessary. The 3-door features a faster power steering ratio for a sportier feel and the sport ratio is available as an option for the 5-door.
The interior is designed to maximize space and comfort while complimenting the exterior design. The gauge cluster features a large speedometer and tachometer in front of the three-spoke steering wheel with tilt and telescope adjustments.
The center stack is V-shaped with a display screen at the top. The 3-door receives more aggressive seats with larger side bolsters and additional lumbar support. Other features include an available large two-panel sunroof for 5-door, available heated seats in cloth or leather, removable cargo cover, power door locks with central locking, power windows, standard six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls on XR versions.
Print | posted on Monday, August 20, 2007 11:52 AM