2008 Saturn Astra in Houston, TX - $0

Still fresh from its debut last year into the American marketplace, the Saturn Astra delivers targeted enhancements for the 2009 model year that make it an even stronger contender in the fiercely competitive small car segment.

Offered in just the well-equipped XR trim level, the newest Saturn 3-door features the automaker's new European-inspired contemporary design language. The Astra hit the street packed with a wide range of standard equipment and safety features while delivering sporty performance combined with very good fuel economy.

The Astra has a clean, contemporary design, infused with Saturn's signature styling cues, including a bold, bright grille bar with prominent Saturn logo. Rear end styling also features a bright trim bar, with large, wraparound tail lamps and clear lenses. The center high-mounted stop lamp uses LED technology for fast and crisp illumination.

Power comes from an Ecotec 1.8L four-cylinder engine joined to a five-speed manual gearbox. An Aisin electronically-controlled four-speed automatic transmission is an available option. The four-speed automatic incorporates neutral idle, a feature that automatically shifts the transmission to neutral during stops and eliminates converter drag on the engine.

It is also equipped with an automatic throttle kick-down feature, which actuates immediate downshifting during wide-open throttle driving for more immediate performance. For 2009, an oil pan heater is an available option.

Control hardware for the Astra consists of a strut-type front suspension, with the control arms, stabilizer bar and steering rack mounted to the subframe. The rear suspension features a semi-independent torsion-link axle design, with an axle-beam formed to do a double-U shaped profile. This enhances strength and also serves as a stabilizer bar. The rear control arms also feature integrated wheel carries made from lightweight, one-piece hollow-cast material. These lightweight control arms reduce unsprung mass, for an increased feeling of nimbleness.

Inside the cabin, bold design, refinement and precise execution are Astra's hallmarks, an interior that envelops occupants in a contemporary environment that maximizes space and comfort. Seating is firm and well-supported and the thick, three-spoke steering wheel has both rake and telescopic adjustments.

A rounded cockpit binnacle houses a large, three-dimensional gauge cluster -- including a large speedometer and tachometer dials. The split 60/40 folding rear seat also folds flat with the touch of a convenient, high-mounted lever.

Interior enhancements and improvements for 2009 include newly available tan cloth seat and door inserts; a 12-hour clock replaces the 24-hour clock and date on information screen is now month/day/year instead of the European day/month/year format.



Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 102.9; overall length: 170.5; width: 69.0; height: 55.8.

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 138 hp at 6,300 rpm and 125 lbs-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 24 city/32 hwy. (manual); 24 city/30 hwy. (automatic).

Cargo capacity: 37.8 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, StabiliTrak vehicle stability system, remote keyless entry, automatic headlamp control, central locking system, daytime running lights and fog lights.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 5-year/100,000 mile.

Pricing

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2009 Saturn Astra 3-door hatchback starts at $18,375. Destination charges add $620.

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