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SATURN RISING-Best American SUV we've tested

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Contributed by: Edward Vossen on 7/1/2007

"GM's roomy new entry, the Saturn OUTLOOK is the best American SUV we've tested, and ranks among the top vehicles in both our mid-sized and large SUV ratings"

These are the opening statements in the current issue of Consumer Reports, a consumer magazine that is highly regarded as a souce of information when researching automobiles.

The OUTLOOK faced some worthy competition and in fact was only 1 point behind the Mercedes-Benz GL 450, a $67,000 competitor against the OUTLOOK's $$36,000 price as tested.

The new Saturn OUTLOOK is one of the first affordable, large car-based SUVs. With its roomy interior, the OUTLOOK is an excellent alternative to a large, truck-based SUV for buyers who don't need the extra towing capacity or off-road ability of a truck. The OUTLOOK has agile handling, a comfortable ride, and third row seat that's hospitable for three adults.

HANDLING, RIDE, AND POWERTRAIN

The OUTLOOK's good handling belies its large size. The OUTLOOK responds quickly to steering inputs and the weigh and feedback are just right. Body lean is minimal. Emergency handling is stable and secure.

The OUTLOOK is one of the few SUV's that offers a roomy third-row seat that's comfortable for three adults.

The 275-hp, 3.6-liter V6 propels the vehicle nicely in normal conditions and sounds smooth and refined. The ride is steady and controlled without excessive jostling. Wind and road noise are well suppressed.

INSIDE THE CABIN

The OUTLOOK, with a second-row bench seat, provides comfortable seating for eight people. A seven passenger model with second-row captain's chairs is also available. The second row folds forward in one simple step to create a wide path to the third row. The second-row seats also adjust back and forth for extra leg room or cargo space.

The third-row seat is much more comfortable, useful, and easier to acess than in most SUVs. Both the second and third rows easily fold flat into the floor, and the front passenger seat folds for carrying longer carge.

Most controls are easy to use and rear passengers can adjust the climate system and vents in the headliner to provide air to the back.

The OUTLOOK has an optional powered rear liftgate, which make loading easier. This feature is coupled with rear parking assist.

The Saturn OUTLOOK can be seen at Saturn of Stuart, 3131 SE Federal Highway, Stuart. More information can be obtained by calling or emailing Ed Vossen at 772-341-4157 or evossen@suburbancollection.com.Vossen has been a sales and leasing consultant at Saturn of Stuart for 12 years and has owned six Saturns in that time span.