2006 Saturn Sky Preview

That premium-level experience can be felt inside the cabin as well, but rather than just luxury the Sky is driver-focused

The Sky is driver-focused, featuring controls and displays that are right at hand. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

featuring controls and displays that are right at hand. Saturn makes use of piano black surfaces, a new trend in the auto industry started with the Toyota Prius and Sienna mid-van, while chrome accents brighten up design details.

High quality cloth will cover the seats and door trim in base models, with optional "technical-grain" leather available. Saturn describes the lighting, heating, ventilation and air conditioning controls as "jewel-like", depicting their execution as "tight" with great "attention to detail."

GM says the new Saturn will influence the brand's styling direction for future products inside and out, a lineup which will

High quality cloth will cover the seats and door trim in base models, with optional "technical-grain" leather available. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

double over the next 24 months.

"The new design of Saturn vehicles are heavily influenced by global design trends and conveys a sense of technical harmony," added Welburn. "Taut, controlled lines combine with fluid surfaces to create a dynamic feel."

According to GM's press release, the new roadster will be followed by a new midsize sedan, most likely modeled after the Aura concept that will debut alongside the Sky next week. It too, looks an awful lot like sedans built by GM's European Opel division.