Jalopnik: antara

LA Auto Show: 2008 Saturn Vue

Ray Wert — Wed, 29 Nov 2006 14:16:42 EST

Spinn's dropping of the hybrid bomb a little while earlier makes this somewhat anti-climactic, but that's ok — because what you see in front of you, is a Saturn, so quit asking already. And now, there's even some Opel and Daewoo design in the new-for-2008 Saturn Vue. Although I already know one commenter doesn't like the General's new prettiness — I have to admit, it's hella better looking than it's predecessor, a CUV that looked like it hit every branch of the ugly tree on the way down — and then smacked nose-flatteningly-first into the ground. But of course I've been talking up the look and styling of the new Antara-derived Vue since back when it was just a Pre-Vue kid swinging on the New York Auto Show swing-sets. Judge for yourself in the gallery below and then view the press release in it's entirety after the jump. – Ray Wert

ALL-NEW 2008 SATURN VUE SPORT UTILITY DELIVERS PREMIUM, EUROPEAN-INSPIRED LOOKS AND RIDE QUALITY
* Four model levels, including affordable Green Line hybrid and Red Line performance variants
* Six drivetrain choices, including three engines, three transmissions and available AWD
* Sporty ride and handling
* Refined interior with premium materials
* Wide array of standard safety features

LOS ANGELES - Saturn today introduced the all-new 2008 Saturn Vue, a compact five-door crossover vehicle with European design and sporty ride and handling. The vehicle was revealed at the Greater Los Angeles International Auto Show.

The new Vue is the latest Saturn model to showcase the brand's new design character and intensified focus on driving characteristics. When it becomes available in the second quarter of 2007, it will be the fourth all-new Saturn model since the beginning of 2006 calendar year. The other all-new models are the Sky roadster, Aura sedan and the larger Outlook crossover utility.

"The 2008 Saturn continues the product revitalization at Saturn," said Saturn General Manager Jill Lajdziak. "The all-new Vue is versatile, technologically advanced and loaded with safety equipment. Saturn customers will be as pleased with the vehicle as they are with the customer treatment they've always received at their Saturn retailer."

Saturn also confirmed that it will continue to offer the Green Line hybrid version of the Vue, beginning later in the 2008 model year. When it debuted in the 2007 lineup, the Vue hybrid was the first vehicle to use GM's new affordable hybrid powertrain.

In addition to the hybrid, the new Vue will be available in XE, XR and Red Line trim levels. These models will offer a wide range of powertrains, including a more powerful four-cylinder engine, and two V-6 choices mated to six-speed automatic transmissions. Later in the model year, a five-speed manual transmission will be available. All-wheel drive is available with both V-6 engines.

Ride and handling

At the core of the Vue's European driving character is a stiff, steel body-frame integral structure. Ride and handling is augmented by model-specific tuning of spring rates and wheel travel. Front and rear stabilizer bars, MacPherson strut independent front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension, along with a double-isolated engine cradle, add to the smooth ride. Hydraulic power-assisted steering on V-6 models, standard four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, standard traction control and standard GM StabiliTrak electronic stability control provide outstanding vehicle control.

A towing package with hitch and wiring is available on all Vues. A towing stabilization system uses active braking to help control the vehicle in trailering situations. The Vue (except Red Line) can also be towed as an RV "dinghy vehicle" with all four wheels on the ground.

Safety

In addition to the handling features that help drivers avoid crashes, the all-new Vue helps protect occupants with a long list of standard crash protection safety features. Dual-stage front seat air bags, front seat side thorax air bags and head curtain air bags covering front and rear rows are standard on all models.

Complementing the air bags is GM's rollover sensing system, which uses sensors to proactively predict vehicle tip-up on a flat road surface and apply brake force to the outside front and rear wheels to reduce lateral force in the vehicle. It also activates the roof rail air bags if sensors determine an impending rollover. Other standard safety features include front-row dual safety belt pretensioners, disengaging collapsible pedals and active head restraints.

Like all Saturn vehicles, the Vue comes standard with GM's OnStar safety and security system, including a one-year subscription to the Safe & Sound plan. The OnStar service includes Advanced Automatic Crash Notification (AACN), making crash data available to emergency services to potentially dispatch the appropriate life-saving personnel and equipment to crash scenes faster. If the vehicle is in a crash that activates an air bag, the system automatically notifies an OnStar advisor, who will contact the occupants and summon emergency help if necessary. OnStar also provides remote door-unlocking service and can assist authorities in locating a vehicle if it is reported stolen.

Exterior

The new Vue's exterior exhibits Saturn's new European design cues, with a look that is clean, sculpted and distinctively sporty. Tight wheel-to-body relationships, large jeweled headlamps and a sweeping upper profile line contribute to the Vue's striking design. The tapered roof line is one of the design cues drawn from the PreVue concept shown at the 2006 New York Auto Show.

Another cue inspired by the PreVue concept is the fender accent molding located vertically along the forward front door line. The styling feature is molded in charcoal color and incorporates a side repeater turn signal. Bright accents surrounding the side glass add to the appeal of the vehicle's profile. The grille proudly displays Saturn's recognizable chrome brand bar with a large Saturn badge.

Sixteen-inch alloy wheels are standard on XE models, while larger 17-inch alloy wheels come with the uplevel Vue XR. XE and XR models are further distinguished from each other with specific fascias, rockers and wheel opening trim. The Red Line model, to be unveiled later, will sport its own performance-inspired design cues.

Interior

Inside, the Vue continues the upscale theme with refined materials and precise fit and finish. Designers used lighter colors to bring a sense of spaciousness to the cabin, and incorporated an array of useful storage solutions.

The interior offers a host of comfort and convenience features, many of which are uncommon in the segment. These include optional eight-way power driver's seat; standard flip-down second-row armrest with storage; standard CD stereo with MP3 capability; standard driver information center in instrument cluster; available automatic climate control system with electronic controls; available navigation system; and an optional enhanced convenience package that includes an automatic rain-sensing wiper system, remote start, universal home remote and heated windshield washer system.

Other cabin highlights include:

* Rich materials including chrome accents on the air vents, center stack controls, instrument cluster and speakers
* Bolstered seating upholstered with two levels of flat-woven fabric with specific inserts; leather seating is available on most models
* Low-gloss, low-glare upper instrument panel with embossed grain
* Amber backlighting in the instrument panel and center stack control faceplates
* Ample covered, flocked and damped storage, including a locking glove box big enough for a medium-size purse
* A sliding storage bin under the front passenger seat
* Flat-folding 60/40 split rear seatback
* A rear cargo management system that uses upper and lower rails and storage nets to accommodate storage nets for everything from beverage bottles to home-improvement accessories

Powertrain

No other vehicle in the segment will offer as wide a range of engine choices as the 2008 Vue. The XE FWD and Vue Green Line models are equipped with the 2.4L Ecotec with variable valve timing. It produces 164 horsepower (122 kW) at 6,300 rpm* and 160 lb.-ft. (221 Nm) of torque at 4,500 rpm.* It is mated to the Hydra-Matic 4T45, four-speed, electronically controlled transaxle. A five-speed manual will be available on four-cylinder Vue XE models in early 2008.

All-wheel-drive Vue XE models come equipped with a 3.5L V-6 engine, delivering 215 horsepower (260 kW) at 5,900 rpm* and 220 lb.-ft. (304 Nm) of torque at 2,800 rpm,* with a broad torque curve and good low-end torque for quick acceleration.

Vue XR and Vue Red Line, are powered by GM's sophisticated, high-feature 60-degree dual overhead cam 3.6L V-6 VVT that delivers 250 horsepower (186 kW) at 6,500 rpm* and 243 lb.-ft. (329 Nm) of torque at 4,400 rpm.*

All Vue models equipped with V-6 engines receive the new Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic transmissions, which helps maximize powertrain performance and economy.

Saturn, a division of General Motors Corp., markets vehicles in the U.S. and Canada through a network of about 500 retailers, with a focus on providing innovative products with solid value and excellent customer service. In 2006, the brand began a major revitalization of its portfolio with four new vehicles: the Sky roadster, the Aura midsize sports sedan, the Vue Green Line Hybrid (all available now) and the Outlook large crossover utility. These new vehicles join the current lineup that includes the Ion small car, Vue compact SUV and the Relay crossover van.

*SAE certification pending. A new voluntary power and torque certification procedure developed by the SAE Engine Test Code committee was approved March 31, 2005. This procedure (J2723) ensures fair, accurate ratings for horsepower and torque by allowing manufacturers to certify their engines through third-party witness testing. GM was the first auto manufacturer to begin using the procedure and expects to use it for all newly rated engines in the future.

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Opel Antara Flexes That Ass: Saturn's New Vue-To-Be Sports Techie Bike Rack Goodness

Ray Wert — Thu, 05 Oct 2006 16:14:55 EDT

We guess the euro boys n' girls are big fans of biking. All we know is we can rarely get our asses out from behind the laptop long enough to even ride a bike, much less require a rack to carry them. Nonetheless, we're sure there's a decent sized chunk of the population — both in Euro-land and here in the good old US of A — that'd love what Opel's cooked up. It's called the "Flex-Fix" and it's coming as an add-on for the '07 Opel Antara and Corsa. It's a rear-end hatch popping open and pulling out a two-bike carrier out of the bumper without the need of tools. And speaking of tools, the Antara's expected to replace the tool-mobile that is the current Saturn Vue. No word if we'll get this little tech-goodie over here, but if Saturn knows what's good for them, they'll drop it into some accessory package. Maybe they can call it the "trail mix" option pack. Full press release below the jump and gallery located via the link. – Ray Wert

[Opel Antara Flex-Fix Gallery]

Always Ready: "Flex-Fix" Also in New Opel Antara

# Integrated carrier system already successfully debuted in new Corsa
# Practical innovation available for 4WD crossover as of early 2007

R sselsheim. Following the successful world premiere of the integrated rear carrier system "Flex-Fix" in the new Corsa, Opel will offer this innovative, exclusive extra with the new Antara as of early 2007. The four-wheel drive crossover Antara is currently debuting at the Paris Motor Show and will be available at Opel dealerships in a few weeks.

Having already established the interior flexibility benchmark with the Zafira's patented "Flex7" seating system, Opel now sets new standards in exterior on-board flexibility with the practical Flex-Fix system. It can carry up to two bicycles and be easily pulled out like a drawer from the rear bumper, so no tools are needed at all. Two major benefits compared to conventional bicycle carriers are the more convenient loading, as bicycles do not need to be lifted as high, and the fact that Flex-Fix is always available, because it is an integral part of the car.

Quick and spontaneous

Owners of SUVs and crossovers like the Antara are often active people who want to transport bicycles, just like the Corsa's young target group. This is where the spontaneity and versatility of Opel's Flex-Fix perfectly matches the needs of these customers. It is capable of transporting loads of 40 kilograms and is suitable for standard bicycle tire sizes of 18 28 inches.

In the Trixx concept car at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show, Opel first presented the idea of increasing car cargo capacity with a permanently integrated carrier system that disappears into the body when not in use.

But there was still much work to be done before it could be used in a production car; all important car design specifications, such as crash safety, had to be met without compromise, and the system had to be quick and easy to use, requiring no prior technical knowledge.

Tough tests before use in production cars

As the Flex-Fix system is an integral part of the vehicle, it must conform to Opel's strict requirement that it last the car's lifetime. The steel parts are therefore not only galvanized, but are also primed via cataphoresis and protected by a resilient topcoat to withstand years of abuse from grit and road salt.

Parkour Your Fanny Right Here: GM Presents The New Opel Antara

Ray Wert — Fri, 29 Sep 2006 18:07:34 EDT

Parkour's a distinctly french form of exercise — madly running from one point to another, flying across rooftops, jumping over and into dumpsters, splashing through mud puddles — all just to prove you can. Come to think of it, that type of blind get 'er done je ne sais pas is what makes GM the General, ain't it? Must explain why they've used it to sell the unveiling of ~~Saturn~~ Opel's new hotness yesterday — the Opel Antara CUV. Yes, it's hot, and yes, that'll be a Saturn before you know it, like the Aura and Sky before it. But you know what, we're ok with that as long as it looks like this.

More on the 2007 Opel Antara: Specs Revealed

Mike Spinelli — Thu, 03 Aug 2006 10:32:49 EDT

GM Europe's let fly with more details on its Antara crossover — which we'll likely see as the next Saturn Vue — ahead of its unveling at the Paris show next month. The Antara's entry engine will be a DOHC 2.4-liter four, with diesel options and a top-line 3.2-liter V6. Where the Antara will be built by those who developed the platform — at GM Daewoo in Korea — its Vue cousin will reportedly be built in Mexico. Click through for specs.

Press Release:
Opel Antara: Elegant 4WD Crossover for Everyday and Leisure Use

# Powerful diesel engines / Top-of-the-line gasoline 3.2 V6 with 227 hp
# Passenger car driving experience and clever transport features such as "Flex-Fix"
# Dynamic crossover launch in fall 2006

R sselsheim. Following the enthusiastic reaction to the Antara GTC crossover concept car at the IAA 2005, Opel launches the production version of the all-new Antara this year. The technically sophisticated five-seater combines dynamic, elegant design with intelligent four-wheel drive, high levels of functionality, generous interior space, a raised seat position and clever transport features such as "Flex-Fix". Prices start at 26,850 euros for the five-door Antara, with which Opel is again staking a claim as leader among volume manufacturers in the SUV and crossover segment. The Antara makes its public world premiere at the Mondial de l Automobile in Paris (September 30 - October 15, 2006). It can already be ordered now and will be available at dealerships from November.

Initially, three transversally-mounted engines with four valves per cylinder are available for the Antara. The most powerful is a V6 gasoline engine with a displacement of 3.2 liters, and output of 167 kW/227 hp. Opel expects the 110 kW/150 hp, 2.0-liter common-rail turbo-diesel to be the top seller. Within a few months, it will be joined by a second version which produces 93 kW/127 hp. Both engines come with a maintenance-free diesel particulate filter. The entry-level engine is a 2.4-liter, 103 kW/140 hp four-cylinder gasoline unit with two overhead camshafts and one balance shaft.

The Antara's intelligent active four-wheel drive system combines the benefits of front-wheel drive - such as tractional stability when accelerating and increased driving dynamics - with those of permanent four-wheel drive.

It features an electronically controlled electro-hydraulic differential which ensures optimal torque distribution between the front and rear axles in all situations. The drivetrain is fully integrated in the ABS and ESP systems, enhancing vehicle control and active safety.

Whatta Vue: Opel Antara Revealed

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 10 May 2006 09:10:20 EDT

Check out the new Saturn. Ok, so it's the Opel Antara SUV, which GM will launch later this year in Europe. But following after will surely be the US premiere of its will-be doppelg nger, the next-generation Saturn Vue. (Sister ships, the Chevrolet Captiva for Europe and Daewoo Windstorm for Asia, were revealed earlier.) The Antara's design cues come straight from the Opel Antara GTC concept, which was shown at the Frankfurt soiree last year, and the Saturn Prevue (get it?) concept, unveiled at the New York show last month. Unlike the three-door concepts, however, the production Antara is a five-door ute with seating for five and a 224 hp 3.2 V6 propelling mom and rugrats, along with "intelligent" four-wheel drive with electro-hydraulic differential. Get a good Vue. Ok, we'll stop now.

Related:
More on the Opel Antara [internal]

Leakage Alert: Saturn Prevue Concept Revealed

Mike Spinelli — Tue, 11 Apr 2006 09:45:45 EDT

Jeez. Protecting a secret in the Internet age is like herding cockaroaches. It's one day before the New York show's press preview days, and the Web is lousy with embargoed shots. This time, it's the new Saturn design concept — the Prevue (get it?) — which hearkens the next-generation Vue, and is a virtual doppelganger for the Opel Antara shown in Frankfurt last year (as if we needed more evidence of a Saturn-Opel confluence). More to come from the show. [UPDATE: Left Lane News thinks it's a fake. Is someone pulling a fast one. Is it you GM?]

2007 Prevue Concept [Cheers and Gears]

GM-Daewoo SUV Debuts, Augurs Badge Engineering to Come

Mike Spinelli — Tue, 21 Mar 2006 06:45:29 EST

Here they come. Earlier this month, Chevrolet introduced its new SUV for Europe, the Captiva, at the Geneva show. Now a version is rolling out for South Korea, the GM-Daewoo Winstorm. Soon, we'll be seeing double and triple in markets all over the world. The importance of the new seven seater, developed by Daewoo, for GM's worldwide strategy cannot be underestimated — GM boss Rick Wagoner found time to attend a ceremony for the Winstorm, the production of which will bring laid off Daewoo workers back to the line. We'll see it in the US as the Saturn Vue, while Europeans will also get the Opel Antara and Vauxhall What the Hell is a Vauxhall? (Sorry, mates, cheap joke.)

GM-Daewoo Rolls Out the Seven-Seat Winstorm in South Korea [Edmunds]

Frankfurt Preview: Opel Antara Concept, New Saturn Vue?

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 14 Sep 2005 13:48:58 EDT

To Infiniti, and beyond! Any resemblance between Opel's Antara GTC (Gran Turismo Crossover) concept and Infiniti's FX series is strictly verboten. Besides, does the Japanese soft-roader have a pantographically hinged rear gate? I don't think so. (Although I'm not sure.) The Antara's fold away rear seats slide out of the way at the touch of an EasyEntry button (why didn't I think of trademarking that name?). A 212-hp twin-turbo 1.9 CDTI four-cylinder engine helps power the seat motors, and everything else as well. According to Alain Visser, Opel's Executive Director for European Marketing, "Anyone who has been lucky enough to see the Antara GTC [in the flesh] has felt instinctively: 'Here comes a strong Opel.'" And then, hopefully, "I should step out of the way now."

Related:
Spy Photos: Chevrolet S3X [internal]