Saturn

Saturn

Saturn

Looking back at the beginning of Saturn Corporation, it was the early 1980s, when the American market needed fuel efficient vehicles and more affordable than what was offered by the automakers. It was 1983, when General Motors announced its “Saturn” project, a small car with better fuel consumption and with lower price tag. The Saturn division was introduced officially in 1985 with its tag line “Different” with print media and TV commercials. The first model line introduced was Saturn “S” Series vehicles. With new platform and technology, these vehicles were dent resistant and fuel efficient. The S series was not only available in Sedans and coupes, but also available in wagons. The Saturn production plant was situated in Spring Hill, Tennessee and operating without GM’s supervision.The first Saturn vehicles were equipped with 85 to 124 horse power engines. As a starter, they were doing well and gaining market interest by fuel efficiency to run 40 miles in a gallon. The average was good and Saturn climbed on top of this segment of the market. 

Saturn

Saturn

The second factor for this new brand to gain fame was its affordability. None of the market competitors was offering such type of vehicles with a price like Saturn cars. As the 1990’s decade wore out, customers seemed distracted by the market competition. There was no new product added by the brand and its market share seemed to drop off. Within no time, the brand started to suffer more due to decreasing profits and sales. GM’s management also neglected the brand’s weak position.Entering in the 2000s, GM gave its attention towards Saturn and in a short time; the brand launched its new series name the “L Series”. These models were introduced in sedan and wagon styles with midsized bodies. The Saturn L series was offered with automatic and manual transmission consisting of 4 to 5 speed gears and equipped with straight four and V6 engines. These cars were based on the Opel Vectra B manufactured at GM Wilmington, Delaware.In 2002, Saturn stepped into the SUV segment of the market by the launch of its model “Saturn Vue”. With its innovative features and low price, it became the main attraction for SUV buyers and stayed the best seller for the brand. Moving further, Saturn also came out with its minivan the “Relay” and by GM support, Hybrid technology was also introduced with the “Saturn Vue Green Line”. 

Saturn

Saturn

The brand also expanded its product line by introducing it sedan “Aura,” “Sky Roadster Sports” and “Vue” full size Crossovers. Saturn “Astra” also stayed in production for the European market but for a short time span.In 2009, GM faced a financial crisis and bankruptcy which resulted in Saturn division to shut down its production. GM offered Saturn for sale, and soon the news came out that Penske Corporation would be acquiring the marquee but the negotiations turned out to be inadequate and the deal was called off by GM.At present, the Saturn division is still closed and the brand name is still owned by GM. So far, there is no press release by the parent brand for restarting the Saturn production or placing the brand for sale.

Saturn

  Saturn

  Saturn

 Saturn

Saturn

  Saturn

Saturn

 Saturn