Welcome to our newest Feature article here at GMI, Revitalization in Action; The Dream Saturn Lineup. After a hiatus for the holiday and auto show seasons, RIA returns with the latest in our lineup of GM brands. Revitalization in Action is a collaboration of GMI Staff Member ChevroletRevived, the Director/Writer of RIA, GMI Photoshop Artist fbodyrules who designs the vehicles, and GMI Administrator/Interior Photoshop Artist NSAP. Our mission? To show, with realistic feasibility, how great GM can (and will) be. With the latest lineup RIA continues it's constant quest to expand and become more comprehensive. The latest fruit of that pursuit is the addition of interior design to the ever increasing views list, of which we have NSAP to thank . Saturn is currently undergoing the first phase of it's renaissance, with a whole list of completely new products arriving in dealers in less then 18 months. The brand is no doubt a key component of GM's success in the future. Our aim is to show what the next generation of this renaissance will bring, with brand expansion and Opel integration taken to a new level. In RIA, the Saturn brand marches upmarket and undergoes expansion to become a full-line brand in the GM brand stable. An upscale volume brand, our vision of Saturn takes VW head on. Truly GM's brand of the future, the lineup also includes an SUT truck based on the Lambda platform market. This we know; the next generation of Saturn vehicles will be fully integrated with Opel. With this in mind, we took design prowess and luxury to new levels. Thanks, and enjoy!
Model Lineup:
Saturn Signal - Premium Hatchback Sub-Compact, Gamma, Ford Fiesta | Opel Corsa
Saturn Astra- Premium Compact, Sedan/Hatchback, A3 | Opel Astra
Saturn Sky- Sports Luxury Roadster, Kappa, MX-5 | Opel GT
Saturn Vue - Compact CUV, Theta II, RAV4 | Opel Antara
Saturn Aura - Mid-Size Entry Premium, Sedan/SportWagon, EPII, VW Passat | Opel Vectra/Insignia
Saturn Outlook- Large CUV, Lambda, Highlander | No Opel Counterpart
Saturn Switch - Large SUT, Lambda, Ridgeline | No Opel Counterpart
About Saturn And It's Very Bright Future
The quirky Saturn brand has been completely transformed. Saturn is a true player in the markets it competes now. It's lineup has undergone a complete revolution. This first generation of products is impressive, garnering acclaim and winning awards. Opel's European competence has been injected into the lineup, with some excellent results. True Opel integration means future Saturns in the US will be the exact same vehicles sold in the very demanding European market. I have no doubt that Opel's prowess and expertise will result in amazing, class leading next generation Saturn products here in North America. Competition, watch out. Saturn is a new player.
Saturn Returns to it's Roots
“Say what?” might be your response. What about "Like Always, Like Never Before"? My answer: what about it? At Saturn's birth, it was intended as GM's brand of the future. Over the years, that vision has been lost as the uncompetitive lineup and product neglect set in. Sagging sales and a cash strapped parent company. Then the heads at GM had a brilliant idea to revive Saturn that was also cost effective: they'd make Saturn be Opel's American twin. Fight fire with fire? By battling with VW, Saturn will conquest sales from the Japanese as the more emotional (and yes, more expensive) alternative. People will pay more for what they want. And, as evidenced by the success of companies like BMW, they want European cars. So, you may think Saturn is departing from it's roots, but in actuality, Saturn has never been closer to it's original mission: being GM's answer to foreign competition. Now, once again, Saturn is GM's brand of the future. Going back to your roots has never looked better.
A Guide to the Models
In crafting the vision for the next generation Saturn brand, we've tried to be as thorough as possible. As you may know, Saturn has a few different trim lines for each of it's models: XE, GL, XR and RL. XR being the top end luxury model, RL being the top end sporting vehicle and XE being a low end blending of both. GL, on the other hand, is a hybrid model with the main focus being on fuel economy. As it is very time consuming to create pictures with each different trim line, we decided to go with the trim that we feel best expressed each vehicle's intended purpose, like showing Aura as an XR model and Sky as an RL. You'll see various models peppered throughout the lineup, sometimes with both (witness Astra, with XR and RL models). A plan of ours to differentiate vehicle interiors between trim lines is the "vehicle profile plan" that offers more individuality and differentiation to buyers. That "different feel". Part of the differences we'd like, interior profiles have different key elements, and details are changed like ambient LED lighting, gauges and wood trim/metallic trim/leather colors. Also, we hope you'll take "luxury" in these models (XR, for instance) in context; Saturn is a lineup of balance. Every car is intended to handle well and have the ability to tackle the high speed switchbacks with ease. Hopefully you'll find this Saturn lineup to be the most comprehensive and best RIA lineup ever.
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2011 Signal (Signal RL shown)
Trim Levels
Base: XE
Up-level: XR
Introduction
Known in Europe as the Opel Corsa, the Saturn Signal is one of the new models in our expanded Saturn lineup. As evidenced by the growth in subcompact vehicles for sale or planned for sale in the US market, customers have been desiring small, fuel efficient vehicles. Signal is Saturn’s entry into that market and one of Saturn’s niche models. We know now that the next generation Corsa will be sold in the US as a Saturn, as it will be designed to meet safety and cost standards required for sale in the US. Knowing this, including the Corsa as a Saturn was a must for our Dream Saturn Lineup. Fitting in smartly with the rest of the Saturn lineup, the Signal is an upscale subcompact with beautiful design. It’s RL (Corsa OPC in Europe) model should be the only sports subcompact on sale in the US market. XE, powered by an 125 HP Inline 4, is the inexpensive fuel sipping base model. XR the upscale model of the lineup, is powered by an 145 HP Inline 4. XE and XR models are available with a diesel engine. The latest Corsa has just been introduced, and the next production generation model won’t debut until around MY 2011. The name for the subcompact Saturn being brought to NA is unknown; whether it will carry the name Corsa is yet to be decided.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: 3 Door Subcompact Hatchback and 5-Door Hatchback
Size Comparison:
Competitors: Ford Fiesta, Mini Cooper
Base Platform: Gamma
Drive Wheels: FWD
Engines:
XE: 1.6L 125HP Inline 4/ Optional CDI Engine - Starting at $14,150
XR: 1.6L 145HP Inline 4/ Optional CDI Engine - Starting at $17,150
RL: 1.6L 200HP Turbocharged Inline 4 - Starting at $20,000
Transmissions: 6 Speed Manual, 6 Speed Sentronic
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2011 Astra (Astra RL shown)
Trim Levels
Base: XE
Mid-level: XR
Up-level: RL
Body Styles
Sedan, 3-Door Hatchback, 5-Door Hatchback
Introduction
As Saturn continues to grow in the future, the next generation Astra will be a key component of that growth within the Saturn lineup, accomplishing higher volumes and expanding the lineup in the U.S. RIA's Astra is positioned as a "value" Audi A3, competing on a similar level with the Mazda3, and the Audi A3 more directly in XR guise. The RL model (and indeed, the Astra line as a whole) is best defined by the 3-Door Hatchback body style. Competing in the "hot hatch" segment, the RL should prove very successful in reaching Generation Y. A real attention getter in both style and in specifications, Astra RL will help build excitement and interest in the Saturn brand, and maybe even get some of the car magazines excited. And why not? Astra RL is fast, European and is an excellent value. RL competes against the Mazdaspeed3, Dodge Caliber SRT-4 and Impreza WRX. Astra's real forte is it's style, besting it's competitors with it's beautiful design. In Europe, with it's car market mature and developed, has championed the small car, due to gas prices, emissions issues, taxes and the like. Because of this, customers have desired for luxurious small cars, available with features of full-size luxury cars. America has seen a change and a niche in the market has opened up for these types of vehicles. Astra takes advantage of that and offers unprecedented levels of elegance and luxury in a small car. Features available across the Astra lineup include an available navigation system, SmartKey and standard Bluetooth (XR, RL).
While the top line RL is a hot hatch, the whole lineup is sporty offering a great price/performance ratio. XE is powered by a 2.4L 200HP Ecotec 4 w/Direct Injection, besting the HP of the top level Honda Civic Si and providing lots of pep for the price. XR is powered by a 2.0L 245HP supercharged Ecotec 4 with Direct Injection. The model with Euro-flair, the signature color combo for this model is ebony wood with the special Morocco leather color and amber interior lighting. Outside, XR has a luxurious look, lots of chrome bright work and premium wheels. RL, the top of the lineup is powered by a 265HP Ecotec Turbo w/DI. XR has an aggressive face and sports tuned suspension and the requisite red interior lighting. Expect the next generation production Astra to debut in calendar year 2010 as a 2011 model.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Compact 5-Passenger 4-Door Sedan and 3-Door Hatchback
Size Comparison: Mazda3
Competitors: VW Jetta/Rabbit, Honda Civic, Mazda3, Audi A3 (XR), Subaru Impreza, Mazdaspeed3, Dodge Caliber SRT-4, Subaru Impreza WRX (RL)
Base Platform: Delta II
Drive Wheels: FWD, AWD Option
Engines:
XE: 2.4L 200HP Ecotec 4 w/DI - Starting at $21,500
XR: 2.0L 245HP Ecotec Supercharged 4 - Starting at $24,350
RL: 2.0L 265HP Ecotec Turbo 4 w/DI - Starting at $26,500
Transmissions: 5 speed Manual (Standard: XE), CVT (Optional: XE/XR/RL), 6-Speed Manual (Standard: RL), 6-Speed Automatic (Standard: XR)
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2010 Sky (Sky RL shown)
Trim Levels
Base: XE
Mid-Level: XR
Up-level: RL
Introduction
The Sky is the car that started it all; the car that sparked the revival of the Saturn brand. As a Saturn halo vehicle, it fulfills it’s intended purpose: which is to get people into Saturn showrooms. Buyers love the Sky for it's European looks, RWD and affordable price. RIA steps things up a notch with it’s next generation Sky.
Changes start with the the powertrain and the addition of a more luxury oriented retractable hardtop XR model. XE starts with a 2.0L 200HP Ecotec 4 and, as always, is the cheerful and inexpensive model of the lineup. XR has a 2.0L 245HP Ecotec Turbo 4, as well as the retractable hardtop. Sky RL turns up the heat on performance with a 2.8L 300HP High Output Turbo (HOT) HF V6. Aggressively styled and hard core performance tuned, RL also sheds weight by eschewing the retractable hardtop roof and using lightweight materials. Although some have questioned whether there will next generation Kappa cars, the success of the Solstice and Sky roadster and planned uses for the platform in the future lead us to believe that isn’t the case.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Compact 2 Passenger Roadster
Size Comparison: Pontiac Solstice
Competitors: Pontiac Solstice, Mazda MX-5
Base Platform: Kappa
Drive Wheels: RWD
Engines:
XE: 2.0L 200HP Ecotec 4 (w/DI) - Starting at $23,250
XR: 2.0L 245HP Ecotec Turbo 4 - Starting at $27,450
RL: 2.8L 300HP HF HOT V6 - Starting at $30,150
Transmissions: 6-speed Manual (Standard, XE), 6 speed DSG (Optional, XE Standard, XR/RL)
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2012 Vue (Vue XR Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: XE
Mid-level: GL
Up-level: XR
Introduction
Our proposed next generation Vue moves up a notch from it’s current standing to better compete with VW's Tiguan and Mazda‘s CX-7, of which are it’s two primary competitors. While the Vue moves up in class and pricing at the top end, the stretch upward stops there; the Vue stays relatively the same size in RIA’s next generation model. The latest Vue to come out, the 2008 model, is a huge step forward from the current model in execution and we believe, a class leader in it’s segment. The size of the 2008 model Vue is perfect for competing in the small near luxury crossover segment. For those who have thought Saturn could’ve done better in the styling department with the 08’ model, RIA’s got the Vue for you. Style inside and out has been made a priority; classy design is the name of the day. As one of Saturn’s volume models, it has a wide range of models and a broad price spectrum. Starting out at around $23,500, XE competes with the base models of Tiguan, CX-7 and RAV4 and is powered by 2.0L 230HP Ecotec 4 with optional AWD. GL is the Dual Mode hybrid model and is powered by a 2.0L 175HP Ecotec 4 with standard FWD. Starting out at $27,950 is the luxury XR model, competing with Tiguan and the high end models of RAV4 and powered by a 3.6L 285HP HF V6. The sports model of the bunch is the RL, starting at $31,250 and powered by a 3.6L 315HP HF V6.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Compact 4-Door 5 Passenger CUV
Size Comparison: VW Tiguan
Competitors: VW Tiguan, Mazda CX-7, Acura RDX
Base Platform: Theta II
Drive Wheels: FWD (Standard, XE/GL), AWD (Standard, XR/RL)
Engines:
XE: 2.0L 230HP Ecotec 4 w/DI - Starting at $23,500
GL: 2.0L 175HP Ecotec 4 w/Dual Mode Hybrid System - Starting at $25,950
XR: 3.6L 285HP HF V6 - Starting at $27,950
RL: 3.6L 315HP HF V6 - Starting at $31,250
Transmissions: 6 Speed Automatic
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2012 Aura (Aura XR Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: XE
Mid-level: GL, XR
Up-level: RL
Body Styles
Sedan, SportWagon
Introduction
Designing the Aura was tough, as the current model has just been debuted recently, to industry-wide acclaim and a North American Car of The Year Award (NACOTY). We started with what we do know about the next generation Aura. The 2012 Saturn Aura will be virtually identical to it's European market counterpart, the Opel Vectra. Based on GM's highly flexible Epsilon II platform, the Vectra/Aura will be a good indication of where GM wants to take Saturn as a brand. As Saturn's flagship sedan, we didn't take this lightly.
Many have liked the Opel GTC Concept, and while some cues have been used on the Aura from the GTC, we decided to be creative and possibly influence the design direction of the Aura at GM. In our lineup, the Aura moves upmarket at the top end and closely mirrors it's chief competitor, the VW Passat. Firmly placed in the near-luxury market, Aura not only offers the standard technology suite required for competing in this segment, but also brings some new stuff to the table. Available and standard features include SmartKey, Bluetooth, Navigation, OnStar, Heated/Cooled Front & Rear Seats, Rain Sensing Wipers and Projector/LED Headlamps. The LED headlamps would be a first for it's segment. Another innovative feature is the availability of both heated and cooled seats for the rear passengers.
Based on the Epsilon II platform. the Aura changes tack with the introduction of a standard 4-cylinder Ecotec engine in the base XE model in place of the current OHV V6. Starting out at $22,150, XE is a great value and offers features that many have been longing for on a mid-size GM vehicle; an sporty drive, excellent interior, navigation availability, and a manual transmission to name a few. Next is the lineup is the Green Line (GL), starting at $25,150. In it's next generation, the GL takes GM's mainstream hybrid sedans to a new level by changing over to the Dual Mode hybrid system. Unlike the BAS in the current Aura, Dual Mode enables the GL to be a "full" hybrid, therefore yielding much better fuel economy ratings, a key marketing figure for the PR department and the "green" image Saturn is trying to craft. Starting at $29,950 and topping out at $36,950 fully loaded ($38,450 with AWD), the XR is all about luxury and upscale refinement. Elegant and luxurious, the XR’s exterior oozes luxury and Euro style. The inside is no different; XR impresses with exotic combinations of real wood, two tone leather, and soft Amber LED lighting; Aura XR is the pinnacle of luxury for the Saturn brand. Next is the model with a completely different mission altogether: the RL, powered by a 3.6L 315HP V6 and coming fully loaded with AWD and Navigation. On the outside, the RL is aggressive and sports ground effects, aggressive front clip and darkened headlamp surrounds. Inside, RL eschews XR's luxury look for metallic trim and red ambient lighting. From a sedan for everyone (XE), to people looking to save gas (GL), to those looking for luxury (XR) and those wanting a sports sedan (RL), Aura's got it covered.
There is varying reports as to when the production Aura will debut; some have said 2010, others, 2012, so we're going with 2011 as the introduction date of our proposed 2012 Aura. It's going to be interesting; Saturn has time to take some of the ideas here into account; let's see if the production Aura reflects the work and detail put into the Aura by the RIA team.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Midsize 5 Passenger 4 door Sedan and 5-Door SportWagon
Size Comparison: VW Passat
Competitors: VW Passat, Lincoln MKZ, Acura TL
Base Platform: Epsilon II
Drive Wheels: FWD (Standard, XE/GL/XR), AWD (Option, XR), AWD (Standard, RL)
Engines:
XE: 2.0L 230HP Ecotec Turbo 4 - $22,150 to $24,950
GL: 2.0L 175HP Ecotec w/Dual Mode Hybrid System - $25,150 to $27,150
XR: 3.6L 285HP HF V6 - FWD: $29,995 to $36,950 AWD: $31,495 to $38,450
RL: 3.6L 315HP HF V6 w/DI - $39,995 (Fully Loaded)
Transmissions: 6 Speed Automatic (Standard, XE/GL/XR), 6 Speed Manual (Optional, XE/XR/RL), 6-Speed DSG (Standard, RL)
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2012 Outlook (Outlook XR Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: XE
Mid-level: GL
Up-level: XR
Introduction
As Saturn’s large family crossover, the Outlook continues that mission in it‘s next generation. Staying at it’s current size, Outlook cuts it’s base price on the XE model to $26,900, distancing itself from the Acadia and Enclave platform mates and helping it to reach a larger buying base. Right now, it’s a bit too expensive to reach some of the families it needs to get to be a sucess. However, the current formula works; RIA’s Outlook is an evolutionary step. XE is powered by a 3.6L 250HP HF V-6, and new to the lineup is an GL hybrid model with the Dual Mode hybrid system. XR, the top end luxury model, get it’s power from a 3.0L 300HP HF V-6. Basing on a 5 year cycle, expect the next generation production Outlook to arrive as a 2012 model.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Large 4-Door 7 Passenger CUV
Size Comparison: 2007 Outlook
Competitors: Honda Pilot
Base Platform: Lambda
Drive Wheels: FWD, AWD
Engines:
XE: 3.6L 250HP HF V6
GL: 2.8L 215HP HF V6 w/Dual Mode Hybrid System
XR: 3.6L 300HP HF V6
Transmissions: 6 Speed Automatic
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2011 Switch (Switch XR Shown)
Trim Levels
Base: XE
Mid-level: GL
Up-level: XR
Introduction
Some have mentioned the possibility of Saturn becoming the second or perhaps the largest GM brand sometime in the future. That day is far in the future, but it can certainly never be in the realm of possibility without a wider and more diverse product lineup. Part of that larger, more diverse lineup is the 2010 Saturn Switch, a GM entry into the Sport Utility Truck (SUT) market and the first non-body on frame GM "truck". As this segment class looks more appealing to potential buyers, GM would be wise to field an entry into this market early in the game, and establish a foothold. GM should be quick to jump on emerging segments; it's what will help propel sales forward. One look at it's only competitor and you realize there is potential as it is not hard to be the best in this segment, inside and out.
Based on an enhanced and strengthened Lambda platform suitable for more heavy duty use, the AWD Switch is powered by a class leading 3.6L 300HP HF V6 and is the first to offer a V-8 engine in this segment, forcing it's primary competitor into an awkward market position. Another first for the segment is the Dual Mode Hybrid System, mated to a 3.6L HF V6 making 255 HP and getting excellent fuel economy. Great fuel economy would be the standard across the board, as the Switch would benefit from GM's extensive fuel economy work on the GMT-900's. GM brings it's innovations in the BOF Truck segment to the Switch, of which include Mid-Gate, AFM and the Dual Mode Hybrid System.
The Switch would help continue Saturn's new found reputation for refinement, competence and establish an image of being on top of the latest market trends. Certainly no replacement for the real, BOF trucks, the Saturn would help GM establish a position in this market without damaging the deserving reputations of traditional GM truck brands Chevy and GMC. Our proposed Switch arrives in 2010 as a 2011 model.
Specifications Sheet
Vehicle Type: Large 4-Door 5-Passenger Sport Utility Truck (SUT)
Size Comparison: Honda Ridgeline
Competitors: Honda Ridgeline
Base Platform: Enhanced Lambda
Drive Wheels: AWD
Engines:
XE: 3.6L 300HP HF V-6 - Starting at $27,650
GL: 3.6L 255HP HF V6 w/Dual Mode Hybrid System - Starting at $28,500
XR: 4.6L 380HP "Ultra" V-8 - Starting at $35,950
Transmissions: 6 speed Automatic
GMI's Revitalization in Action | The Dream Saturn Lineup - GMInsideNews Forums
I love the cars, awesome. 
I would personally desire for the 2010 Sky and 2012 Vue, luxurious exterior design is very much attractive. I guess it is made up of high quality 
