 |
Saturn For 2000 |
By Carey Russ |
In the time since the first Saturn was sold in 1990, changes have been incremental. The company's small sedans, wagons, and coupes have been continuously refined, and they were restyled a few years ago. But this is not a year of incremental change at Saturn. A new mid-size series of sedans and wagons is available, and the small cars have major changes as well. A new version of the coupe will be announced later.
LS and LW
Saturn fans who have wanted a larger Saturn have had their wish granted. The all-new L (Large) series debuted this fall in both LS sedan and LW wagon body styles. They bring Saturn into the mid-size arena, and promise serious competition for the established makes in the class. Although they are built on a completely different platform than the S- series cars, the L-series cars have Saturn's trademark dent-resistant body panels and discernably Saturn styling. They are much roomier than the smaller Saturns, and the wagon is touted as a competitor to small SUVs. The base engine is a 2.2-liter twin-cam four-cylinder similar to the S-series engine. Uplevel cars have a 3.0-liter, 182-hp V6.
SL and SW
In response to requests from customers, the smaller Saturn S-series lineup has been significantly revised this year. The sedans and wagon have new lower bodywork that gives them a sportier look. More importantly, just about everything inside has been redesigned. The pods are gone. Highlights include a new instrument panel, redesigned console, new door panels, and greater front-seat adjustability. There are also enhancements to power locking and audio systems. Sedans are offered in SL, SL1 and SL2 trim levels, while the wagon comes only in premium SW2 trim
