Sky to be Saturn's First Roadster

New Sky Points Saturn Division in New Styling Direction

Did you think Saturn's first sporty car since its recently introduced Red Line series would be based on the exciting Curve

Pontiac's new production Sky seems influenced heavily by GM's European division Opel in its front grille and headlight design. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

concept which debuted at last year's North American International Auto Show in Detroit? All who thought so have now been set straight, with Saturn's future looking to blue sky in more ways than one.

The General Motors division has chosen the name Sky to represent its new roadster model, pulled from the Sky Concept that debuted the year prior. Unlike the concept, which sported a unique "convertible" two-seat, four-seat configuration, the production Sky will just offer two seats. Actually, GM states there is no design link to the production and concept Sky models.

It will also usher in a completely new styling direction for the brand,

Opel recently announced the introduction of a future compact convertible model that will sport an electro-hydraulically operated, retractable steel roof. Can you see some Sky details in its front end styling? (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

one that seems influenced heavily by GM's European division Opel in its front grille and headlight design. Interestingly, Opel recently announced the introduction of a future compact convertible model that will sport an electro-hydraulically operated, retractable steel roof. GM says little about the new Saturn Sky's convertible top operation, but if it shares architecture with Opel's new roadster, which may make sense, a retractable hardtop could be on the way.

GM says the new Saturn will nevertheless influence the brand's styling direction for future products, a lineup which will double over the next 24 months.