Saturn Sky

What: A racy new roadster that Saturn has launched to spice up their already cute line of cars.

Why it’s Hot: With its combination of dynamic design and agile performance, the 2007 Saturn Sky signals a bold new direction for the Saturn brand. The vehicle’s price, however, shows the brand’s ongoing commitment to providing solid value to its buyers combined with an industry-standard purchase and ownership experience. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the well-equipped 2007 Sky starts at $23,690 for models with a 5-speed manual transmission, and $24,540 with an optional 5-speed automatic. (Both MSRPs include a $575 destination charge).

The Variations: The Sky’s exterior features a strong front end that represents the new face of Saturn, with a pronounced fender peak and a bold, chrome bar that carries an integrated Saturn badge. It has a wide, muscular stance with short overhangs and 18-inch wheels pushed to the corners for a true sports car feel. The convertible top folds completely into the rear compartment and the clamshell hood provides excellent accessibility and reinforces the Sky’s sports car character. Halogen projector beam headlamps and fog lamps extend the exterior’s sophisticated look.

The design philosophy is carried through to the Sky’s interior, which is driver-focused with integrated controls and displays. Creative use of piano black and chrome finishes combine with available leather seats and technical grains to emphasize richness and precision. Jewel-like detailing on the HVAC and lighting controls is executed with tight fits, highlighting the attention to detail. The Sky also has the athletic performance to back up its bold styling. It is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter, 177-horsepower Ecotec engine with variable valve timing and a five-speed Aisin manual transmission with a short throw shifter. An available limited slip differential decreases potential wheel slippage, increasing the Sky’s performance potential ever further.

Sharing its front engine/rear-wheel-drive architecture with the 2006 Pontiac Solstice, the fun and exciting 2007 may be the last thing most would expect from Saturn. Another perk Saturn has added? Since this kind of ride demands its own soundtrack, the Sky offers a CD/MP3 player with a225-watt, 7 speaker Monsoon audio system and XM radio so you will never be at a loss for lyrics.

What They’re Telling us: "It’s very fashion forward. It’s sort of a modern architectural approach to automotive design. I think Gucci was a big influence because it is sleek, sexy and dynamic and I think it connected with the vehicle very well,” says Saturn designer Vicki Vlachakis of the Saturn Sky.

Flavors: Black Onyx
Polar White
Silver Graphite
Silver Pearl
Bluestone
Midnight Blue
Forest Green
Sunburst Yellow
Chili Pepper Red

Where you can get it: Contact your local Saturn dealer for more details. Visit www.saturn.com for more information and updates on the release date.