What an effort from GM
Usually, when a vehicle in GM's lineup is completely redesigned, its appreciation always seems to end up sounding like: "this new model is not quite as good as the segment leaders, but it's a giant leap compared to the model it replaces."
Well of course, if the model it replaces hasn't changed in 10 years, the giant leap isn't all that hard to accomplish.
But in the Outlook's case, it doesn't replace anything; it's a brand-new model within a Saturn roster that's currently benefiting from a remarkable rebirth. Despite the plethora of new models, the Outlook will probably be the most profitable of the bunch.
A great drive
Based on a platform called Lambda that's shared with the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Traverse (the latter coming at the end of 2008), the Outlook is available in front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions.
This SUV (sorry, crossover) demonstrates a well-appreciated sure-footedness, both around town and on the highway. The steering is neither too light or too heavy, and the suspension swallows up absolutely everything without disturbing its occupants. The Outlook is very easy to drive.
The 3.6-liter V6 and its dual exhaust produce 275 horsepower in XR trim, while XE models have 5 fewer horses, which is rather imperceptible. Although the engine has its work cut out for it, having to motivate 4,900 lbs (2,225 kg) of truck, its acceleration times reveal that the engine is just right: 0-100 km/h is accomplished in 8.5 seconds, which is more than enough for a mid-size SUV or crossover. My fuel consumption average is 13.9 L/100 km. In my opinion, it's the best V6 ever offered by GM.
The all-wheel drive system doesn't include a transfer case that's driver-adjustable; all is monitored automatically. During normal driving, most of the power is sent to the front wheels, and when wheel slippage is detected, more torque is channelled down to the rear wheels.
Usually, when a vehicle in GM's lineup is completely redesigned, its appreciation always seems to end up sounding like: "this new model is not quite as good as the segment leaders, but it's a giant leap compared to the model it replaces."
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| The Outlook has a promising future. |
Well of course, if the model it replaces hasn't changed in 10 years, the giant leap isn't all that hard to accomplish.
But in the Outlook's case, it doesn't replace anything; it's a brand-new model within a Saturn roster that's currently benefiting from a remarkable rebirth. Despite the plethora of new models, the Outlook will probably be the most profitable of the bunch.
A great drive
Based on a platform called Lambda that's shared with the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Traverse (the latter coming at the end of 2008), the Outlook is available in front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions.
This SUV (sorry, crossover) demonstrates a well-appreciated sure-footedness, both around town and on the highway. The steering is neither too light or too heavy, and the suspension swallows up absolutely everything without disturbing its occupants. The Outlook is very easy to drive.
The 3.6-liter V6 and its dual exhaust produce 275 horsepower in XR trim, while XE models have 5 fewer horses, which is rather imperceptible. Although the engine has its work cut out for it, having to motivate 4,900 lbs (2,225 kg) of truck, its acceleration times reveal that the engine is just right: 0-100 km/h is accomplished in 8.5 seconds, which is more than enough for a mid-size SUV or crossover. My fuel consumption average is 13.9 L/100 km. In my opinion, it's the best V6 ever offered by GM.
The all-wheel drive system doesn't include a transfer case that's driver-adjustable; all is monitored automatically. During normal driving, most of the power is sent to the front wheels, and when wheel slippage is detected, more torque is channelled down to the rear wheels.
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| It is easy to see why GM offers this engine in several models. |