New 2009 Saturn OUTLOOK

Building off of a solid platform and increasing power, the 2009 Saturn Outlook proves that the future is bright for midsize SUV fans everywhere.

The Outlook made one major change to the popular 2008 model and that was increasing power. Using direct-injection technology, the XE boasts a 3.6-liter, 281-horsepower V-6, while the XR has a 3.6-liter, 288-horsepower V-6. All of that power makes it possible to tow a maximum of 4,500 lbs. Both come with standard front-wheel drive or the aforementioned full-time all-wheel drive system for superior traction and control in a variety of road and weather conditions. When it comes to the competition, the Ford Taurus X, Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander can’t keep up with the Outlook’s power. However, the Outlook’s fuel economy is on par with the competition. The Outlook gets 16-17 MPG in the city and 22-24 on the highway, which is the best fuel economy of any eight-passenger crossover SUV.

If you have lots of little ones or tons of equipment you plan on hauling around, the Outlook has impressive amounts interior room. There are three rows of seats and 115.9 cubic feet of cargo room with the second- and third-row seats folded flat. The 60/40 split folding rear seatbacks with Smart Slide easily slide out of the way for easy third-row access. Interior touches include an optional navigation system with integrated MP3-compatible audio system, voice recognition, CD player, and rear backup camera for easy parking maneuvers. An available DVD entertainment system features a flip-down 8-inch display with two sets of headphones to keep backseat passengers entertained.

The Outlook comes with a one-year OnStar® plan, which includes: Turn-by-Turn Navigation, Vehicle Diagnostics, Remote Door Unlock, Hands-Free Calling, Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance, Roadside Assistance and RideAssist, which will call you a cab if you are incapable of driving.

Comprehensive safety features include a multiple airbag system, with dual front airbags, dual side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted head curtain side airbags to protect passengers in all three rows in a collision. Four-wheel disc anti-lock and StabiliTrak electronic stability control, which come standard helps to keep the vehicle on track during evasive maneuvers. 

When it comes to safety, power, fuel economy and amenities, the future couldn’t be any brighter than the 2009 Saturn Outlook.