GM Saturn ASTRA - Manual (Page 4)

European Driving Dynamics
MACPHERSON STRUT FRONT/
TORSION BEAM REAR SUSPENSION
The independent front suspension combined with a rear
torsion beam axle provides fantastic cornering ability and
greater agility with a solid, secure feel. Lowered, sport
suspension standard on 3-Door XR, available on 5-Door XR.
POWERFUL AND EFFICIENT ECOTEC 1.8L ENGINE
Generates 138 hp and features Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
with dual cam phasers for a broad, flat torque curve. Mated
to a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic
transmission with neutral idle for improved fuel economy and
a winter mode to reduce torque and thereby limit front wheel
spin on slippery surfaces.
ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC STEERING
Optimized rack-and-pinion steering has a very linear response
with a “connected to the road” feel. Hydraulic pump only
operates when needed which enhances fuel efficiency.
Bold Styling & Refinement
SPORT CUES WITH LARGE WHEELS AND TIRES
Athletic proportions with a long wheelbase, wide track, short
overhangs and aerodynamically raked windshield and
roofline. Distinctly different appearance between 3-Door and
5-Door models. Prominent wheel flares with 16", 17" or 18"
wheels give ASTRA a strong performance stance.
EXCELLENT FIT-AND-FINISH WITH TIGHT EXTERIOR GAPS
ASTRA has remarkably tight gaps between exterior panels
and components for a more refined and upscale appearance.
The look is very clean with tightly integrated wraparound
fascias, jeweled lights and no cladding.
HIGH-QUALITY INTERIOR MATERIALS
Ergonomic layout and operation of controls with a premium
finish on the instrument panel for a low-gloss, soft-touch
feel. Incredible attention to detail includes tight gaps,
metallic look accent trim, a woven headliner, cloth-wrapped
A-pillars and flat woven cloth fabrics. Luxurious leather
seating surfaces are available.
Well Equipped
STABILITRAK – ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
Automatically corrects oversteer and understeer conditions
for more stable handling in extreme situations (standard on
3-Door, available on 5-Door). Includes traction control with
brake and throttle intervention.
SIX AIR BAGS, ACTIVE HEAD RESTRAINTS
AND PEDAL RELEASE SYSTEM
Occupant protection measures include head-curtain air bags
as well as seat-mounted side-impact air bags with both pelvic
and thorax protection for front occupants. Front seat active
head restraints and a pedal release system are also standard.
60/40 SPLIT REAR SEATS AND CARGO COVER
Split-folding rear seats are standard for greater flexibility and
a removable cargo cover help keep prying eyes from seeing
valuable packages through the liftgate window.
STATE-OF-THE-ART AUDIO AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Radios and a Driver Information Center provide advanced
infotainment features and vehicle messages. Steering wheel
controls on ASTRA XR make it easy to control the systems
while keeping your hands on the steering wheel. OnStar
is standard on every ASTRA.
HEATED FRONT SEATS AVAILABLE WITH CLOTH AND LEATHER
Heated front seats are available with cloth seats on all
models, a surprising feature in this segment, and also
included with the available leather seats. They provide three
heating levels for a greater range of comfort.
2008 Saturn ASTRA
Key Selling Features
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