2005 Saturn Aura Concept

The Aura's cockpit is simple, precise and uncomplicated, the way a sports sedan should be. The instrument panel features a layout

The Aura's cockpit is simple, precise and uncomplicated, the way a sports sedan should be. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

consisting of three gauges, illuminated by a warm, yellow glow which also back-lights the climate and audio controls. A distracting dashboard-mounted LCD display, usually used for entertainment and navigation purposes, has been left out, leaving the driver to concentrate solely on the road ahead.

Passengers in the Aura are kept safe and sound through the latest in active and passive safety technologies. Aside from superb dynamics, the Concept sports StabiliTrak stability control, traction control and ABS brakes, as well as roof-mounted side-curtain airbags, seat-mounted

Under the hood of the classy concept is a 250-horsepower 3.6-litre V6 engine. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

side airbags and dual-stage front airbags. OnStar GPS tracking is also featured.

Along with its European-themed looks and construction, the Aura has a powerplant with a Euro background. Under the hood is a 250-horsepower 3.6-litre V6 engine which features variable valve timing and double overhead camshafts.

This motor is the top-of-the-line variant in GM's new modular range of V6 engines developed for luxury and performance vehicles by GM Europe. It's the same motor that can be found in Cadillac's CTS and STS V6-powered sedans, and is linked to a six-speed automatic with a driver-oriented manual 'tapshift' mode.