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05-09-2006, 04:46 PM
Saturn Ion to be Replaced by Opel Astra in 2007
Saturn pulls the plug on its homely compact and finds a stylish replacement in the Opel Astra
BY RAY HUTTON
May 2006
Saturn is becoming the American name for GMâs German subsidiary, Opel. The 2007 Saturn Sky Red Line convertible is virtually identical to the Opel GT; the 2007 Saturn Aura mid-size sedan is directly related to the Opel Vectra; and at the end of 2007, the Saturn Ion compact reportedly will be replaced with a barely changed Opel Astra. According to Automotive News, the new Astra-based Saturn will not only be designed in Europe but also will be exported from there. The Ion ceases production in Spring Hill, Tennessee, at the end of this year. GM officials wonât confirm that the Astra is the Ionâs replacement or tell us what it will be called. Whatever the name, the scribes at Automotive News expect it to be priced from about $16,000 â some $3500 more than the Ion.
We have been driving the Opel Astra in Europe to give you an idea of whatâs in store for Saturn and how it compares with the small-car competition.
The Opel Astra took a big step forward when it appeared in Europe two years ago. Its predecessor had been a dowdy thing, outclassed by the original Ford Focus in the most competitive sector of the European car market. The styling of the fifth-generation Astra is more exciting and more sporting, and the design and quality of its interior is a quantum leap from the previous carâs. Martin Smith, then design chief at Opel â now with Ford â can take credit for that. He made his name with Audi interiors, arguably regarded as the best in the business.
The Astra entered the European arena as one of the best, if not the best, of the bunch. Bigger and more spacious than its predecessor at 167 inches â it is 5.5 inches longer â it is also nicer to drive. GMâs European engineers have learned from Fordâs success with the nimble Focus that drivers appreciate cars that steer precisely and handle confidently. Ford has also moved on in Europe with a bigger and better Focus (not sold in the U.S., where the old model continues), but the Astra beats it on style and presentation.
Page 2 & 3 and photos here
Saturn pulls the plug on its homely compact and finds a stylish replacement in the Opel Astra
BY RAY HUTTON
May 2006
Saturn is becoming the American name for GMâs German subsidiary, Opel. The 2007 Saturn Sky Red Line convertible is virtually identical to the Opel GT; the 2007 Saturn Aura mid-size sedan is directly related to the Opel Vectra; and at the end of 2007, the Saturn Ion compact reportedly will be replaced with a barely changed Opel Astra. According to Automotive News, the new Astra-based Saturn will not only be designed in Europe but also will be exported from there. The Ion ceases production in Spring Hill, Tennessee, at the end of this year. GM officials wonât confirm that the Astra is the Ionâs replacement or tell us what it will be called. Whatever the name, the scribes at Automotive News expect it to be priced from about $16,000 â some $3500 more than the Ion.
We have been driving the Opel Astra in Europe to give you an idea of whatâs in store for Saturn and how it compares with the small-car competition.
The Opel Astra took a big step forward when it appeared in Europe two years ago. Its predecessor had been a dowdy thing, outclassed by the original Ford Focus in the most competitive sector of the European car market. The styling of the fifth-generation Astra is more exciting and more sporting, and the design and quality of its interior is a quantum leap from the previous carâs. Martin Smith, then design chief at Opel â now with Ford â can take credit for that. He made his name with Audi interiors, arguably regarded as the best in the business.
The Astra entered the European arena as one of the best, if not the best, of the bunch. Bigger and more spacious than its predecessor at 167 inches â it is 5.5 inches longer â it is also nicer to drive. GMâs European engineers have learned from Fordâs success with the nimble Focus that drivers appreciate cars that steer precisely and handle confidently. Ford has also moved on in Europe with a bigger and better Focus (not sold in the U.S., where the old model continues), but the Astra beats it on style and presentation.
Page 2 & 3 and photos here
I was the only member on this board with a Yellow Focus Sedan, and a 2002+ Euro Facelift on a sedan.