Auto Guide
2008 Saturn Aura
Used

Review and specifications

2008 Saturn Aura

The Aura uses the same platform as the Pontiac G6. The XE model has a coarse 3.5-liter V6 paired with a four-speed automatic. A smoother, stronger 252-hp, 3.6-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic is in the up-level XR. Both returned 20 mpg overall in our testing. Our tested XE had a better ride than the XR, which is stiffer and harsh over bumps. Both were nimble and responsive, but easily slid their tails at their handling limits. The interior has considerably nicer materials than past Saturns. Curtain air bags and ABS are standard, but ESC is standard only on the XR and the hybrid version. 2009 was its last year.

Market value
$3,225
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2008
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability Not rated
Data updated December 4, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
sedan
Drive type
FWD
Transmission
Automatic, 6-speed
Category
Midsized cars
Generation began
2007

Pricing

Current retail median
$3,225
Retail value range
$3,225 - $3,400
Original MSRP range
$20,045 - $25,675
Trade-in range
$845 - $990

Ratings

Road test score
70/100

Fuel economy

EPA city
20 MPG
EPA highway
28 MPG
EPA combined
23 MPG
Tested city
13 MPG
Tested highway
31 MPG
Tested overall
20 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,930
Cruising range
330 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
2.8 sec
0-60 mph
6.6 sec
60-0 mph braking
137 ft
Avoidance speed
51 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
190 in
Width
70 in
Height
58 in
Wheelbase
112 in
Weight
3,670 lb
Maximum load
910 lb
Towing capacity
1,000 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
3.5 in
Front leg room
41 in
Rear head room
2 in
Rear leg room
29 in
Luggage
3+0+0

Brand context

About Saturn

Started in the 1980s as “a new kind of car company,” General Motors’ Saturn division took a fresh approach to manufacturing and selling automobiles. Initially, the brand launched with “no haggle” dealership pricing and a small lineup of vehicles distinguished by dent-resistant plastic door panels. Over time, the cars and SUVs became more conventional, sharing parts and basic designs with other GM models. The last Saturn vehicles, the Aura sedan and Astra hatchback, were based on designs from the European brand Opel, which was then a part of GM. Ultimately, Saturn was shuttered during GM’s bankruptcy in 2010, along with Hummer, Pontiac, and Saab. Saturn vehicles still on the road today are over a decade old and lag behind other used options when it comes to safety and convenience features.

Vehicle ID: 8165 First published: July 22, 2020 Updated: December 4, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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