GM Saturn ASTRA - Manual (Page 10)

ECOTEC 1.8L Engine
• Dual overhead cams (DOHC), four valves per cylinder and
Variable Valve Timing (VVT). Dual cam phasers allow both
the intake and exhaust valve timing to be varied
independently. This provides more precise valve timing
control for optimum performance and fuel economy.
• 140 hp @ 6300 rpm
• 126 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3800 rpm
• Two-step intake manifold, deep drawn exhaust manifold
and dual catalytic converters enhance engine “breathing”
for improved performance.
• Lightweight design at only 260 lbs. to help maximize
fuel economy
• Individual coils on each spark plug for stronger spark
and elimination of needlessly firing spark on the
exhaust stroke for improved efficiency
• Digital engine sensors rather than analog for greater
precision, accuracy and speed for optimum performance
and fuel efficiency
• Increased engine rigidity for reduced noise and vibration
resulting from a structural oil pan, box-like lower
crankcase, multi-layered steel gasket, long cylinder head
bolts and a full-circle transmission mount
Transmissions
• Standard 5-speed manual transmission with a short throw
design for crisp, performance shifts
• Available 4-speed Aisin automatic transmission has
sophisticated electronic controls which also manage
the torque converter for smooth shifting, low noise
and high durability
– Neutral Idle feature automatically shifts into neutral
when stopped to reduce drag on the engine and
improve fuel efficiency
– Winter Mode is engaged via a pushbutton and causes
the transmission to start in third gear to reduce torque
and limit wheel spin on low-traction surfaces
– Performance on Demand (throttle kick-down)
automatically downshifts during wide-open throttle
for immediate performance
– Downhill Grade Assist forces a downshift to utilize
engine braking and thereby reduce brake pad wear
2008 Saturn ASTRA
Performance, Ride & Handling
8
ASTRA’s advanced VVT system
with dual cam phasers delivers
90% of max torque from a low
2200 rpm all the way up to 6200
rpm. This broad, flat torque curve
provides strong acceleration from
a stop as well as when passing on
the highway.
Note: Some customers in cold
climates may notice longer crank-
over times when starting a cold
engine due to the resting position
of the dual cam phasers. An
available oil pan heater can be
installed to address this situation.
The new Saturn ASTRA is incredibly fun to drive with authentic European driving dynamics bred on the narrow, twisting roads
of Europe and refined through testing across the U.S. Behind the wheel you will experience a “connected to the road” feeling
with neutral cornering and taut handling along with exceptional ride comfort.
Astra_DetailsBk 9/14/07 3:18 PM Page 8