Consumer Reports – The outlook? Saturn’s SUV ranks at top

Big, roomy and refined, the Saturn Outlook is the best American SUV that Consumer Reports has tested, and ranks among the top vehicles in both CR’s midsized and large SUV ratings.

CR tested the 2007 Outlook alongside three other new midsized SUVs ‘ the Hyundai Veracruz, the Mazda CX-9 and the Ford Edge ‘ and the freshened Chrysler Pacifica. Despite this lineup’s overall solid performance in test measures including acceleration, braking and handling, CR doesn’t recommend any of the vehicles. That’s because the new models lack reliability data and the Pacifica’s predicted reliability is below average. (In order to receive CR’s recommendation, a new vehicle must do well in CR’s own tests, perform at least adequately if subjected to government and/or industry crash tests, and show average or better reliability, as determined by reader responses to the magazine’s annual questionnaire.)

Saturn Outlook: The Outlook’s 275-hp, 3.6-liter V6 propels the vehicle nicely in normal conditions, and sounds smooth and refined. The XR version CR tested with a second-row bench seat and third-row seating that’s hospitable for three adults, provides comfortable seating for eight. With options including a powered rear liftgate, the tested version cost $36,799 ‘ some $10,000 less than luxury SUVs.

Almost a foot and a half longer than midsized SUVs such as the Toyota Highlander, the Outlook is the first car-based SUV that is spacious enough inside to be a viable alternative to large truck-based models. That’s good news because car-based models tend to provide better handling, a more comfortable ride and better fuel economy. The Outlook delivered 16 mpg in Consumer Reports’ tests, which is better than that of all the large SUV models that have been recently tested. Its gas mileage is about midpack when compared with midsized SUVs tested by CR.

Hyundai Veracruz: The Veracruz’s quiet, well-finished interior, refined 260-hp, 3.8-liter V6 engine and isolated driving experience are reminiscent of competitive SUVs from Toyota and Lexus. The car’s routine handling is sound but not agile; CR testers reported the Veracruz felt lumbering and reluctant on Consumer Reports’ curvy test course. Inside, drivers sit high with ample head room. The rear seat easily accommodates three and can slide forward and back to make more space for second- or third-row passengers. The SE version tested cost $33,870.

Chrysler Pacifica: Updated for 2007, the Pacifica gets a more powerful engine ‘ a 253-hp, 4.0-liter V6 ‘ and a new six-speed automatic transmission. With those updates, CR found the Pacifica to be a pleasant, comfortable and relatively responsive cruiser. The Pacifica is a true crossover vehicle, making it feel more wagon-like than other SUVs. Its second- and third-row seats, however, can only accommodate two people each, unless you get the base five-passenger model. As tested, the Touring (4.0) version cost $33,515.

Mazda CX-9: The CX-9’s nimble handling gives it a relatively sporty, fun-to-drive demeanor. The 263-hp, 3.5-liter V6 delivers good performance and sounds polished. Inside, a single lever slides the second-row seats forward to create a wide, easy access path to the third row, which adults may find cramped. On the downside, braking distances for the CX-9 were among the longest in this group. With options including a trailer-towing package, the Touring version CR tested cost $35,372.

Ford Edge: A new design based on the same platform as the Mazda CX-9 and the Lincoln MKX, the Edge is nonetheless a disappointment. The 265-hp, 3.5-liter V6 provides quick acceleration, but it lacks refinement. Handling is lackluster, fit and finish is subpar and the six-speed automatic transmission is not as smooth or responsive as it should be. The Edge also lacks a third-row seat. On the plus side, the Edge’s turning circle is tighter than the three-row SUVs. As tested, the SEL version cost $33,590.

In CR’s ratings of midsized SUVs, the Saturn Outlook trails only previously tested versions of the Toyota Highlander (the tested Hybrid Limited cost $39,885) and the Honda Pilot (the EX-L was $34,835). Among large SUVs CR rated, the Outlook ranks second to the Mercedes-Benz GL450, a luxury model that, as tested, cost some $31,000 more.