Safety takes a front seat in the new 2002 Saturn LW-300: head curtain airbags, antilock brakes and traction control. Also added are four-wheel disc brakes, automatic headlamps, LATCH child seat anchors and post airbag-deployment signals. Another very effective child restraint system is the DVD entertainment system which can also relieve the driver of that wonderful refrain: are we there yet, are we there yet, are we there yet?

The LW 300 we tested was equipped with a 3.0-liter 182-horse DOHC V6 which was quite up to the task: be it passing on the freeway or climbing a hill with a full load. The interior's cargo capacity in the wagon is 79 cubic feet. The instrumentation is clear cut and easy to use. Road noise is held to a minimum, and the 16 inch chrome wheels and tuned suspension make for an enjoyable ride. Best of all, is the combination of Saturn's famous customer care and service and the HIGHLY competitive list price. For the young family on a tight budget, this wagon is a must test drive.

- Editor

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