2007 Saturn Outlook Review

General Motors looks to have a big hit on their hands with the 2007 Saturn Outlook, their latest entry into the hot, crossover market. It is available in two trim levels, the XE and the XR, and can be ordered with front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

Locomotion is provided by a 3.6L V6 engine with variable valve timing that produces 270 horsepower and 284 ft-lbs of torque at 3200 rpm (270 horsepower on the XR). The capable engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Other standard equipment includes traction control, StabiliTrak with enhanced rollover protection, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, auto headlights, power heated mirrors, power locks and windows, cruise control, front and rear air conditioning, and side head and body air bags. The XR trim adds twin exhaust, unique alloy wheels, fog lamps, mirror-mounted turn signals, a power driver's seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, front automatic climate control, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror, among other items.

If we had to pick one aspect that surprised and continually delighted us it would be how comfortable the Outlook is. The ride may be among the smoothest of any non-luxury sedan we've ever encountered. A lot of the credit goes to a very sturdy unibody platform, and the rest to the fine job of suspension tuning achieved by the GM engineers.

The Outlook's interior also makes a good impression with its design, execution, and quality of materials. While you can get two rows of bench seats for eight passengers, second row captains' chairs can be ordered to seat seven. The rear 60/40 bench easily converts into a flat load floor with a simple tug of a few straps while the middle row tumbles forward for easy access to a space that is surprisingly roomy for adults. The dashboard featured a wide array of controls and chrome accents surrounding the center stack's air vents are a nice touch.

Optional equipment includes the usual audio upgrades, satellite radio, sunroof, and power conveniences, as well as remote vehicle start and a rear seat entertainment system.
The Outlook is a brand new Saturn crossover for 2007 and is available in either front or all-wheel drive, and XE or XR trim. A 3.6L V6 is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission and pricing starts slightly above $27,000. see less