2008 Saturn Sky in Sanford, NC - $18,999

The rear-wheel drive Saturn Sky roadster has helped to usher in an impressive product renaissance at GM's "Different kind of car company" division. What's new for the Saturn roadster for the 2009 model year includes: OnStar 8.0 hardware which includes Bluetooth hands-free phone connection (std Red Line, opt included in Premium Trim Package); new 18-inch aluminum allow wheel in three finishes; Ruby Red Limited Edition and Hydro Blue Limited Edition promotional packages include new split –spoke wheel; new exterior colors – Evening Blue, Ruby Red and Hydro Blue (replaces Midnight Blue, Bluestone and Carbon Flash).

The base Sky roadster is powered by an Ecotec 2.4L four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing (VVT) and mated to an Aisin MA5 five-speed manual gearbox. A Hydra-Matic 5L40 electronic five-speed automatic is an available option.

For those who desire more performance, there is the Sky Red Line. With power supplied from an Ecotec 2.0L direct injection turbo engine, the Sky Red Line is GM's highest specific output engine ever at 2.1 hp per cubic displacement and the most powerful production engine in the Ecotec family.

Exterior differences for the Red Line compared to the base Sky roadster features: dual polished aluminum exhaust outlets, 18-inch polished aluminum alloy wheels, a unique front lower fascia which includes functional brake cooling vents and a larger mesh pattern for improved air flow. The Red Line headlamp appearance is also different, with black bezels replacing the Sky's bright chrome.

The Sky roadster starts with a near 50/50 weight distribution, which delivers wonderfully balanced performance and handling in spirited driving. Control hardware includes a four-wheel independent short/long arm suspension with Bilstein coil-over monotube shocks, and front/rear hollow stabilizers bars with ball-joint links.

The Sky Red Line is equipped with a performance-tuned suspension that includes large stabilizer bars, stiff springs and unique shock tuning.

Inside the cabin, the Sky's interior is driver-focused, with integrated controls and displays and premium materials. Creative use of contemporary, upscale black and chrome finishes combine with available leather seats and technical grains to emphasize richness and precision. Jeweled detailing on the HVAC and other controls is executed with tight fits, highlighting the attention to detail.

The roadster's manual fabric top is easy to operate. The rear hinged deck lid closes over the entire mechanism, hiding everything in a seamless flow of sheet metal; with no visible evidence the vehicle has a top neatly stowed in its rear compartment.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 95.1; overall length: 161.1; width: 71.4; height: 50.1

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder – 173 hp at 5,800 rpm and 167 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm; 2.0L DI Turbo four-cylinder – 260 hp at 5,300 rpm and 260 lbs-ft of torque at 2,500-5,250 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed manual, five-speed automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 2.4L four-cylinder – 19 city/25 hwy. (manual), 19 city/24 hwy. (automatic); 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder – 19 city/28 hwy. (manual), 19 city/26 hwy. (automatic)

Cargo capacity: 5.4 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, StabiliTrak vehicle stability system, traction control, security system, engine immobilizer, fog lamps, tire pressure monitor, tire inflator kit, remote keyless entry, OnStar communications system, limited slip differential and automatic headlamps. Red Line adds Bluetooth hands free phone system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/100,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2009 Saturn Sky roadster starts from $27,595 for the base model and $31,905 for the Red Line. Destination charges add $620.