| # 6: SATURN SC |
| It's about time! Female buyers: 58.9% |
The sport coupe category does not cover a huge spectrum of the automobile market. So how do you attract a larger following who like the idea of a sports coupe, but dislikes its impractical side? At Saturn, they proposed: "Let's add a third door!"
This small door on the driver's side opens practically 90 degrees to allow passengers access to the rear seats without having to contort themselves. Saturn also had safety in mind since this new mini-door doesn't open unless the driver's door is already open (thus, the child in a hurry has to wait...). Saturn engineers always use polymer plastic for their exterior panels, very popular with buyers and resistant to shopping centre dents. With regard to mechanics, it's status quo. Saturn has retained the same four-cylinder 1.9L engines with either 100 or 124 horsepower. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard, while a four-speed automatic is optional.
This GM newcomer still lacks a bit of the refinement that Japanese cars offer. Still, Saturn continues to offer an imported-type product with a quality feel, and servicing that brings a high level of customer satisfaction. As well, Saturn has removed the anxiety of haggling by posting the same prices wherever you shop.