While the base price of the SC model has not changed much, the MSRP on the SC2 is higher because Saturn has significantly increased the content level on this car. The current version of SC2 would have included two option upgrades in the previous version of the coupe.
Trudell says, "We believe these value enhancements as well as the popularity of the third door and an all-new coupe design will have a positive impact on sales and deliver more value to our customers."
Though all of the new body panels below the beltline are new, says Trudell, the 2001 coupe maintains the "Saturn swoosh".
Those panels are still made of the dent-resistant polymer body panels that Saturn makes a big deal about, since the help to prevent parking-lot dings and make corrosion next to impossible.Saturn's 2001 SC has new reflector headlamp optics to improve the beam pattern, and in the rear it features restyled wraparound taillamps and an all-new applique panel that continues the taillamp look across the decklid.
On the safety front, the standard front airbags have reduced force and 3-point active seat belts are included for all outboard positions.
For theft protection, the 2001 Saturn coupe is protected from vehicle theft by an engine immobilizing anti-theft system that's standard on every vehicle and keeps the vehicle from starting unless the proper key is used.
"The evolution of the three-door coupe is a testament to Saturn's understanding of the wants and needs of its customers," says Trudell. "The third door began as a suggestion by the 8-year-old son of a Saturn retailer, and in response to customer demand it's now featured on every Saturn SC coupe built."
This third door, which sits behind the driver's door and hinges to the rear of the car to leave a big opening, had quite an amazing affect on the SC's sales --- an increase of more than 30 percent during the first three months.