2007 Saturn Outlook First Drive

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XE Options

Saturn’s Outlook comes with front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is a $2,000 option. Additional extra-cost features include a skylight sunroof, a DVD entertainment system, XM radio and second-row captain’s chairs. Don’t fret; there’s a slew of packages, too, starting with the Advanced Audio Package and its nine speakers, 300-watt amp, subwoofer, rear audio controls, and dual-zone climate control.. Then there’s the Convenience Package which adds remote vehicle start and more. Given the Outlook’s moderately heavy cargo door, GM should find a way to make the power liftgate available on the XE, but this is reserved for the XR. An XE Preferred Package is also available, delivering an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support.

XR Options

For XR shoppers, packages include the Advanced Audio Package (with auxiliary input jack on the XR only) and a Convenience Package with a power liftgate and parking sensors. An Enhanced Convenience Package includes driver’s seat memory, an auto-dimming driver’s side mirror and a four-way power adjustable front passenger’s seat with lumbar. There’s also the Premium Package, adding leather to the first two rows of seats and heat to the front row, and the Touring Package, upgrading the Outlook’s wheels to 19-inch alloys and replacing the standard all-season rubber with P255/60R19 touring tires. The Touring Package also comes with chrome exhaust tips. For weekend warriors, there’s also a Trailering Package.

Outside

GM designers hit a home run with the Sky, a solid triple with the Aura sedan and are legging out a double to the gap with the Outlook. Saturn’s signature grille, a bright and shiny element, communicates a bold new style. Other highlights include wraparound rear windows, jeweled rear reflectors, chrome-ringed taillights, and chrome door handles. With standard 18-inch alloys, the Outlook fills its wheel wells admirably, resulting in a strong, athletic stance. With 19-inch shoes, the SUV is even better looking and with the XR trim the Outlook’s roof gets some needed definition thanks to chrome rails. Overall, the Saturn Outlook has a sporty, upscale design – even in base trim – one that is a welcome addition to a group of vehicles that includes the nondescript Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander.