Everything about the 2009 Saturn Outlook says B-I-G. We drove the All Wheel Drive version of the 8-passenger Outlook, Saturn's nearly 5,000 pound entry into the large crossover SUV market. From the bold vertical front end to the impressive side profile to the large rear quarter with power lift-gate; this is a vehicle that presents a substantial image to fellow travelers.
Power to propel an SUV of this size, comes from one of a pair of 3.6 Liter V-6 engines: A 281 horsepower version that comes in the XE models and the 288 horsepower version that produces 270 pound feet of torque coupled to a six-speed automatic, found in the XR trim level.
Mileage for the Outlook ranges from a respectable 16 miles per gallon city, up to 24 miles per gallon highway.
Power to bring the Outlook to a stop is provided by ABS-equipped four-wheel disc brakes. All models benefit from dynamic rear brake proportioning, traction control and Stabilitrak technologies.
Safety concerns factor into the interior, as well, with crumple-zone construction, energy absorbing dash and steering column. The Outlook is outfitted with the latest-generation airbags with front-seat mounted side-impact and head-side curtain airbags.
The 2009 Outlook is a carryover from the 2008 model shown here. It came with black and tan leather interior trimmed with wood on the doors, dash, center console and shift knob and the leather wrapped steering wheel was both telescoping and tilt adjustable.
Functionality is the key word for the interior design with power adjustable driver's seat and second and third row split folding seats to maximize passenger comfort and cargo capacity.
Our test Outlook came equipped with AM/FM radio/CD player, dual zone, automatic climate control, and optional Trim and Convenience Packages that added features like the leather upholstery and motorized rear lift-gate.
Base MSRP for the 2009 Saturn Outlook is $29,380. The price can reach $45,000 with a full list of options selected. A 3-year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper and 5 year/100,000 mile power train warranty comes standard.
Those in the market for a full-size crossover SUV that gets reasonable mileage should check out the big, bold 2009 Outlook, from Saturn.