Saturn Revisited
By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman
I’m often asked about Saturn, and although I’ve talked a lot about it over the past year, it’s worth revisiting because it seems every time you turn around there’s something new to say.
Later this month, Saturn will launch the all-new Vue SUV at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The industry got a preview of it last April in New York with a concept called, ironically enough, the PreVue. And more was revealed at the Paris show in September when we unveiled its cousin, the Opel Antara.
We’ll have more details and photos of the new Vue in less than two weeks, after the L.A. introduction. We’re hoping for the same great reception that the Aura sedan has been getting — its reviews have been terrific. Generally speaking, the press recognizes not only the refinement of the Aura but also the structural integrity of GM’s global midsize architecture.
That’s the same approach we’re taking with the Vue. It will share architecture and some components with the Antara and other vehicles, but its character and design vocabulary will remain Saturn, through and through.
In GM’s new world of product development, we are leveraging global resources and strengths like never before, and the results are beginning to show more clearly with each auto show introduction — there will be more at Detroit in January, and on the rest of the 2007 show circuit.
For Saturn specifically, that means better products, and more of them. We are doubling its product lineup in the course of a year, and broadening its scope of offerings in the process. And all along, Saturn and Opel will benefit from each other’s expertise.
This will ensure that Saturn’s future products sport European design flair and sharp road-handling. They’ll have bold exterior styling, and highly refined interiors, which is an intense focus of all of GM Global Design at present.
Saturn and Opel are a natural fit. They share similar demographics and brand positioning in their respective markets. Their collaboration means that each brand will have strong, broad product lineups, created as cost-effectively as possible. And, they won’t share everything. For example, I can’t see the Opel Zafira being sold in North America, just as I can’t see the new Saturn Outlook in Europe.
If anyone needed proof that GM is ready to fight back, is willing to make the sacrifices necessary to cut costs and improve revenue, and is able to sustain this turnaround and put the best new cars and trucks possible on the road while doing so… look no further than Saturn for that proof.
- Posted in Bob Lutz
Jack Bowland
This just in Bob… Has GM done enough to keep THIS business? Granted, this represents a small share of GM’s volume (for now…). Should cost reduction really be the main focus of GM?
Here’s the article:
Toyota’s Texas plant promises kaizen for cowboys
Reuters / November 16, 2006 - 10:00 am
SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Toyota Motor Corp. is setting out to sell a pickup that will win over cowboys and conquer the American West — and to build it in a way that is very Japanese and completely Toyota.
With its all-new Tundra, which goes on sale in February, Toyota is taking aim at the last stronghold of the Detroit automakers — full-sized pickups that are a workday necessity for builders, farmers and ranchers and the tough-guy ride of choice for tens of thousands more.
Toyota’s past two attempts to crack the U.S. truck market fizzled because its trucks were seen as too small and underpowered. Ford Motor Co.’s market-leading F-series pickups outsell the current Tundra by a 7-to-1 ratio.
But Toyota has overhauled the Tundra, giving it a 5.7-liter V-8 engine and 10,000 pounds of towing capacity. It expects to sell 200,000 of the trucks next year, up 60 percent from 2005.
Edward Hayes
Fascinating!
You are creating a product for today and a brand for the ages. It seems like just yesterday that Opel was making the case to market their product in the USA. A manager’s responsibility is not to say “NO” it is to say “HOW”. How can we market Opel in America? Well through Saturn.
And I like the way the vocabulary changes when you move from one brand to the other. With Saturn its redlines and greenlines and European flair and synergy. With Pontiac it’s rear wheel drive GXP’s. But of course the most important language is the unique and individual design vocabulary.
Before GM was speaking in grunts and moans and the only word they did form was “NO”. We can get birds to say “NO”. What we need is some management that’s not afraid of building something great. Bob, GM is almost there but the greatest decisions (as far as we know) have yet to be made.
You know we talked about designing cars over the $100,000 price range, but when you have a million dollar design like the Holden FJ Efigy that screams to be recast in America as a Buick just as the Opel turned Saturn PreVue or a great Velite concept at home and all of a sudden flying spirits hit turbulance.
It’s like GM could write the book “I Know Why the Caged Bird Says ‘No’”, it’s just safer that way. Safe in that cage, with those bars keeping evil out, protected in that corner. Well I have something to make that bird dream again and fly. So God says to the bird “I did not give you a spirit of fear” Well then whose is left? It must be the devil and he is in the details. Come on loose those chains break out of that spirit of fear and let Buick fly.
We talk a great game but the greatest decisions at GM have yet to be made the biggest ills yet addressed. If someone took a million sales away from me I want it back.
Let me put it another way, that corner Buick is in is not safe and it was targeted by a thousand arrows. Don’t worry she is only wounded but she is going to mount up with wings as eagles…If, that is, if management says “YES”.
One American layed out a dream for Toyota and it was achieved, so if we should lay out a dream for GM and Buick, why can’t it be so?
In short.
Keep raising the bar and moving the target higher. A stationary target or lower goals and diminished expectations, that is feed for the predators and they took a big bite out of…
Fastlane short-
Whoever has the greatest dream wins.
noel park
Does this mean that we can look forward to getting some of these extremely high mileage Opels that bloggers keep mentioning here? When? The future is now.
kurtw
It’s good to see Saturn striving for better products, and the “PreVue” _are_ very promising. A pity the Aura interiors are not as refined as its suspension and engine (loose parts and creaks in ones I saw), but after all the Aura is a first year car. My fingers are x’ed that in ‘08 the trim and transmission gremlins will be excised and the Aura will carry the flag for the midsized sedan segment!
Patrick
As the original owner of a 1991 Saturn SL2 I hope the new Vue is a success, Bob. Had the Aura been out two years ago my wife and I might still be Saturn owners, but we outgrew the SL2 and moved up to an Impala. The new Vue may well suit our needs in a year or two if the vehicle live up to its high expectations.
Eric Matthew Vest
Bob,
My wife and I saw the Sky and Aura at the local Saturn dealer and were very impressed.
I heard rumors that Pontiac is considering going rear wheel drive across the board. This makes perfect sense since Pontiac’s image is about performance and excitement. This move would really differentiate Pontiac’s product line and improve Pontiac’s image.
Respectfully,
Eric Matthew Vest
Peter Raimondi
congratulations on all of saturn’s success, I can’t wait for the LA auto show. however the brand I really want to know about is pontiac. what is going to happen to it? will pontiac become GM’s performance divison once again, or will it continue to wallow in mediocrity with uninspiring chevrolet rebadges (with a few exceptions)? pontiac has the potential to be a truly unique brand with pure attitude and evocative design and i pray that its full potential is realized.
sincerly,
pete
Christopher
Look at Saturn? No thanks, my eyes are on
Buick, hoping for an equitable amount of product development. The Enclave is nice, but please
give Buick something smaller!
Dsuupr
I’m excited to see GM have Opel share with Saturn, but I do think cars like the Zafira could and would be a small hit in the US like they are in Europe.
HST
So when can I get a 3 door Vue like the concept? 3.6 liter V6 with a 6-speed manual transmission and AWD please. (none of this “manumatic” nonsense…)
Also, make sure the rear roofline isn’t too steep as the cargo area needs to have enough headroom for a 90lb dog. Integrated dog barrier is a must…copy the net/cargo cover design from a BMW or Audi wagon and you’ll be fine.
Hans
“If anyone needed proof that GM is ready to fight back, is willing to make the sacrifices necessary to cut costs and improve revenue, and is able to sustain this turnaround and put the best new cars and trucks possible on the road”
Sounds like more smoke and mirrors BS to me.
Herr Lutz, the new Saturn Aura is very sharp and it has nice European looking lines. Kudos to your keen eye for tempting Euro design. Thanks for leaving off the Bangle butt and not playing copy cat like Toyota.
The proof is in the pudding! For one, I am sick and tired of that worn out cost cutting phrase.
Do you really mean how cheap can we build it?
Do you really want profits at GM and a product line you, GM and Americans can be proud to drive and actually buy?
Here are a few novel ideas-
1. Build a better quality car.
2. Fire some of those overpaid cost accountants and Business Week bragging purchasing managers who love Chinese parts
3. Use better quality materials. Does GM have a problem using high quality materials instead of cheap outsourced components from the lowest bidding supplier?
What happened to greasable suspension components and all aluminum engines?
4. Quite rebating and giving away the farm! Customers want a car that has resale value, not salvage value.
5. Make sure you have an actual order for a car before you build up inventory.
Suggested reading for your holiday break from GM-
Out of Crisis by Dr. W. Edwards Deming.
ISBN 0-911379-01-0
Please read #1 and #4 from the list of fourteen points at least ten times.
D.N
GM’s coming back!
alex
Hello mister Lutz. I know i’m off topic, but, since I’m romanian I would like to ask you if GM is still interested in the former Daewoo plant in Craiova, Romania. If the answer is yes, could you please tell me what are your plans for the plant.
Thank you!
tom loy
I like the saturn vue, but the hybrid version doesn’t get the gas mileage of the ford escape. They would probably be better off with a small diesel engine. Like the 3.0 CRD in the 2007 jeep grand cherokee.
ThriftyTechie
I’ve heard there will be a Saturn version of the Corsa. If this happens soon, I’ll buy it in a second.
The Aveo is a bit blah (no offense), the Versa is plain ugly, and the Golf is just ridiculously expensive.
The Yaris is at the top of my list, but I’m willing to wait (not too long) for the Corsa. The interior seems to have a similar sensibility as the Yaris but just a tad less quirky. Ditto for the exterior.
Bring it.
Mr. Langlitz (Germany)
Dear Mr. Lutz,
thank you for this latest message. The only thing I am missing is some information about the replacement for the Saturn Ion. Several reports at diverse car-magazines told about the adoption of the current Opel Astra to Saturn’s lineup. As I believe, there are a lot of people among the Fastlane Blog-community, who are also very interested in this subject. It would be most appreciated, if you could provide some details.
My proposal even would go a little step further by creating a triangle, consisting of Saturn, Opel (Vauxhall) …and Holden! In my opinion those people from down-under in the meanwhile do an outstanding job, just think of those beautiful new Holden Commodore/Calais/Statesman. I think their engineering skills are also precious.
Best regards.
JKujo
Bob,
Keep up the good work. Please tell us that the same attention to detail will carryover to Pontiac. I like what I see from Saturn but have always owned Pontiacs. I hope that GM does not continue to neglect this historic brand and ignore updating the products. Look at the Grand Prix, when it came out it was dubbed a “Stop-gap” for the real Grand Prix that was to come out a few model years later. Instead this thing will not be redesigned until the 2009 model year? The GXP is a great idea but why can’t we get a redesign?
Also, can you please give us more of you and less of NASCAR? I don’t mind it here and there but last time I checked this was your B-log and not a NASCAR one.
Thank you for your time.
Scott
Now that Saturn’s looking better it’s time to focus on reviving Pontiac. It’s been left whithering on the vine for far too long.
I can’t wait to see the Pontiac version of the Commodore at Chicago in Feb. I just hope that it actually becomes available for sale rather than just a “concept car” that we’ll never be able to buy.
BRE
Mr. Lutz,
Since I am tired of the whining here lately, could you kindly give your opinion on NASCAR and GM and what value it has been to GM both past and future. Maybe then we can get on with whatever we are doing here. Thanks.
Joe Gakenheimer
I prefer the PreVue more than what I have seen from the new overseas Captiva and 2008 Vue pictures. I think it is the headlights and the hood from the PreVue that I like; they seem to coelesce into the grill simonously rather than dropped on and blocked off.
Just my preference, I prefer a CUV to appear like a jacked up rally car rather than a falsified real SUV truck, including styling those styling cues.
Paul Eccles
I’m looking forward to the new VUE. I have a 2002 VUE. I’m hoping for a 6 speed manual, stabiltrak, HID headlamps, and a slick iPod integration to be available. A direct gas injection 2.4L Ecotec would be nice too.
noel park
After looking at the Yaris/Fit/Versa, I have to say that the Aveo 5 door is better looking than any of them. Too bad the mileage is so weak, as bloggers have repeatedly pointed out.
If you could fix the engine/engine management system/powertrain/weight to get marginally better CITY mileage than the above, you could gain some good bragging rights and, hopefully, sales.
Note the Toyota advertising page starting up in Autoweek (11/20/06, page 3), in which they try to pump up their thin automotive heritage (1% of GM, if that). Look at the Time Attack Yaris. They are going to create some real buzz with this stuff, while the US carmakers abandoned the B segment at SEMA.
Drop the ride heigth an inch or two, put an aggressive flexible spoiler under the front, jazz up the wheels a little bit (or not - the alloy ones are OK, actually) and lose the dumb, drag inducing, wing. You will get a little better mileage, and a lot more pizazz I would buy one.
You may have been the first to the market with a B sized car, but, if you don’t keep ahead technically, Honda/Toyota/Nissan are going to drive you out of the segment.
Thiw is not asking for rocket science, or the spending of billions of dollars in product development. You know how to do it. If you have forgotten, come by the house and take a look at Diana’s 95 Impala SS.
Aaron
Great so when are we going to tell America about the great things GM does and vehicles it makes? Rick W. is a good spokesman and should do some comercials like Lee I. did. I think he would be better than the stupid Dr Z. Some could be filmed in the GM Hertitage center.
John C
Patrick, if your SL2 left that much of an impression on you that you purchased an Impala, then I’d say your Saturn did exactly what Gm intended it to: to build a car SO impressive that it would make people want to “graduate” to a bigger GM model. That was it’s original intent, and I’m happy to see it worked. (Un)fortunately, it seems to have worked so well, that GM had to expand the Saturn lineup to appease demand for Saturn lovers, which is great news for GM. I only hope that the people Saturn stole from the import buyers were impressed w/ GM to the point that they (like you) would be willing to check out the entire GM lineup. Kind of a catch 22, but if marketed right, the strategy will work.
Will Harvey
Dear Bob,
I have been a GM car phen all of my life. It is great to see GM become passionate about the product lines. Saturn and Opel relationship is great and hopefully, Pontiac and Holden relationship will emerge sooner wither than later. Please make Pontiac the american BMW brand without the high-end luxury/name plate cost.
Make these foreign auto manufactures wished they never awaken the sleepin GIANT.
Bonbo
Bob,
Please reply back to everyone reading this “blog” the answer to this question:
“The Saturn Aura’s console lid, when closed, sounds like junky plastic because _____”
(Fill in the blank)
Bob
Okay. First, saturn is doing just fine, my only problem, is, being a diehard GM fan, is that the SATURN name should be DROPPED and they SHOULD BE CALLED OLDSMOBILE! Saturn should have left and olds stay, but sturn took over at where olds was going. If the OLDS name was still around, i would whs that the prices stay what they are for saturn. Just my 2 cents.
Wade Morefield
Remind me again how GM was going to end the badge-engineering that left such a bad taste in everyone’s mouth back in the ’80s?
If you’re going to sell Opels in the U.S., why not just sell them as European designed Opels built in the U.S. (as Opels, not Saturn)
Saturn was a stupid marketing gimmick when it originated and it still is a stupid marketing gimmick. I’ve run across more than one person that owned a Saturn and didn’t even know it was a GM product! Is that good or bad? I don’t know. But it doesn’t speak well of a Saturn buyer’s interest in automobiles.
Steven
Sir,
I have been a GM Fan since I purchased my first car back in 1974 (Chevelle Malibu). I have owned 5 GM cars since than and everyone was as reliable and fun to drive as the first one. My last GM car was a 1986 Olds Calais and when it needed to be replaced back in 1996 GM offered in my opinion no replacement car that was as good as my Olds. So I busted my back account and bought for the first time a foreign car (BMW 328i). Now that my BMW is in need of replacement I went back and took looked at GM products again. I saw the Saturn Aura previews and hope that its European roots would be a good and inexpensive replacement for my 328i. This past month I went and kicked the tires on an Aura and found two items that turned me off to the Aura. The first item I did not like was that I could not sit in the back seat with out having my head planted in the roof liner. This problem exists among all Epsilon based cars I have sat in (Pontiac G6 and Chevy Malibu, both have the same issue). And the second item is the spare tire well is only made for the space saver spare tire. That is the spare tire well is neither large nor deep enough to accommodate a flat tire. So if you get a flat tire and have a trunk full of luggage the only place to store the flat is in the back seat?
So I hope that the replacement Malibu coming out in 2007 will have these 2 issues addressed and if they are I will buy it.
Sincerely and keep up the Good Job,
Steven—
Kyle Wheeler
The statements that Hans makes above are absolutely right on the mark. The only correction is on his point #2. Change “some” to “all”, and then you would be on the right track.
Quality product, and sales growth should be the new mantra at GM. If you build the cheapness out, market share growth and profitability will be your reward. The cost cutting has gone far enough - just look at the poor economic conditions that you’ve created in Michigan. Freebasing on your suppliers has to stop - they cannot support your habit anymore, and buying more product from China will leave fewer and fewer Americans with the financial means to buy a new car. Better product doesn’t need discounts to move the metal. But you need to start with better (not cheaper) products.
motorman
this steady drum beat that GM needs MPG to sell cars may not be true,read this. http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061117/OPINION01/611170309/1148/AUTO01
Chris Hayne
Dear Mr. Lutz,
This is very welcome news indeed. I have followed Saturn since the introduction of its first (decidedly Oldsmobile looking) autos though to the more recent vehicles with Honda engines. Lack of new product for many years, in my opinion, really harmed this division. Soon I will not be able to say that. These new vehicles look great inside and out. On that point, I think that the switch to steel is a great idea. The polymer panels tended to expand more in hot conditions, thus requiring larger panel gaps to allow for the expansion. In addition, in cold conditions, the panels would contract even further resulting in a car that looked poorly assembled due to the large gapping.
As I have mentioned in a prior post, the only unfortunate item is that these great cars may not sell as well as their styling and quality indicate. It may take a generation of vehicles (i.e. one model cycle) for the public perception of Saturn, and GM in general, to be revised upward. However, you are doing what needs to be done - build nice looking, well engineered and assembled cars at reasonable prices. Oh yeah, and standing behind your work with a good warranty.
On another note, the Holden Commodore would make a great next generation Grand Prix: 362 horses, 6 speed manual or 6 speed auto, rear wheel drive. This car would be a winner. Speaking of “leveraging global resources and strengths like never before”…
Thanks for your time,
Chris Hayne
Ken
Jack - I’m not at all convinced your post has any merit here, as the Tundra and the Vue are not competitors . Have you not seen the Tundra’s competition in the all new Silverado and Sierra ? These excellent new GM vehicles appear to be more than the Tundra can handle, hands down in my book. And by the way, have you also not seen that the Tundra launch has been delayed until January ? Seems Toyota just discovered now that it needed a better V-8. There’s some real Toyota forward planning for ya, delay during the launch because you just discover now that it’s got an anemic engine that can’t keep up with the best of the bunch. Meanwhile, GM was able to launch the new T900’s 13 weeks early ! Go GM go !!!
Daren Hubbard
Today in detroit I saw an Austrailian Caprice. PLEASE BRING THIS CAR TO THE STATES. In fact bring all of HOLDEN to the states as either chevy’s or pontiacs. You can not loose…
Phil
I read recently that the Sky/Solstice were being upgraded within the model year.
So do us all a favor and get rid of that horrible spongy steering wheel material on the Aura and any Saturn that has it! GET SOMETHING BETTER Salesmen are so stupid they actually mouth the platitude: ‘It feels just like leather!’
What briar patch were they born in?
This is an example of cost-cutting we can SEE, FEEL, or HEAR!!
Go randomly to a Saturn dealer in NY and test drive the Aura over the Gowanus, BQE, LIE, FDR, and ALL MANNER OF HORRIBLE OUTER BOROUGH ROADS. If the car isn’t squeak and rattle-free, blame yourself and SOLVE FOR X.
I’ll come along for the ride if you wish!!!!
Phil
Don’t make the G6 rear-drive! You’ll alienate the top half of the country. ALL WINTER LONG! Stability control just doesn’t MAKE UP THE DIFFERENCE. AWD is expensive, too! I thought the Gran Prix should stay to deal with Acura, but if you don’t want it and a RWD/AWD BONNEVILLE, I understand because they would essentially be the same size. But let the G6 be, just remember: A Saturn tries to achieve the perfect balance of ride and handling and quiet, but a Pontiac gives up a little ride to achieve superior handling, and LET’S THROUGH ONLY TITILLATING HIGH-FREQUENCY SOUNDS AND VIBRATIONS to make a driver’s mouth water.
A Buick on the other hand, sacrifices some handling to achieve a sliding-on-glass ride, but never wallows. NO SOUND GETS THROUGH, as many people have been impressed with lately. But all GM brands must operate on a higher plane of relaity due to the fact that they’ve been tuned on a hilly course that puts Nurburgring to shame AND SIMULTANEOUSLY COMBINES all kind of random ride challenges that can ever be imagined.
Cadillac gets to use technology and more expensive designs to create unbelievable capability and a sexual feel to the driving experience.
DO IT!!
Phil
Also, don’t let Saturn become just another brand in a GM showroom. Keep them Seperate.
At that new Chevrolet/Saturn of Harlem there’s nothing sperating them from the other cars and the same overworked salesman in the corny suit comes to assist you. THIS IS NOT THE WAY TO DO IT. TRUST ME!
Talis
saturn blows!
Mr Tripower
Mr Lutz:
The Saturn Vue looks like it has potential. On another matter of more interest to me: Based on the silence coming from GM regarding Pontiac, I guess you are indicating there is nothing “new to say” about that brand. Are there any concepts to be shown at LA and Detroit from this division? What about the next generation GTO? I think it is time for you guys to come out and say what is going on there. Last year YOU indicated that there would be a new GTO for the 09 model year. Since that time I have heard nothing from GM regarding the GTO. What is Pontiac going to have in order to compete with the Mustang, Camaro and Challenger? Remember: Pontiac started the “Muscle Car Era”. If you guys are not going to rejuvinate Pontiac by offering a viable GTO and Grand Prix it is just as well to axe that division as you did with Oldsmobile. The way it looks now, Pontiac has nothing except for the Solstice. What a sad end for a once proud car company. My advice to you: Be more like Knudsen, Estes and DeLorean - your efforts to date at Pontiac look like the it was planned by the bean counters and brand marketing whizzes that created the Aztec.
Mojojojo
I think rebadging Opel cars as Saturn cars is a great idea. Opel’s cars give Saturn something to compete with. I think GM is doing a great job with its new vehicles and you deserve a pat on the back. Now here are some of my complaints about Saturn and GM:
I would still like to see better quality materials in your cars (especially their interiors). GM always seems one step behind everyone else when it comes to interiors. It’s great to see the company working on the interiors of new Cadillac’s (such as the current STS and the upcoming CTS - which look great) it would be great to see you focusing on the interiors of your non luxury brands as well (eg. Chevy’s and Saturn’s).
I am also disappointed with the styling of your new Vue/Antara. It is a little duller than I hoped to see. The PreVue looked amazing and I would have liked to see more styling cues carried over to the production Vue.
I don’t think the new Outlook is a great idea. It doesn’t seem to fit in with the rest of the Saturn lineup. I know the Zafira is too small and not powerful enough for America but I would liked to have seen a smaller CUV/Minivan that would fit better with the Saturn image.
I am also concerned that the new collaboration between Saturn and Opel will cause more watered down cars. I hope GM will not be building cars to appeal to both the North American and European markets. I fear Opel might lose its European appeal.
Another complaint I have with GM in general is the fuel efficiency of your vehicles. I would like to see more vehicles that can compete with Japanese cars in terms of fuel efficiency. I don’t know if its just my imagination but it seems to me like GM’s highway fuel efficiency numbers are generally competitive but its city driving numbers are not very impressive.
Finally, this blog at times seems more like a NASCAR blog. I’d like for more non-NASCAR related GM news.
Peter Barone
I think it is amazing that GM has established itself as a global mediocre car manufacturer, and you’re OK with that placement. Whether it is Opel in Europe, most GM brands in the US or Buick in China, General Motors just doesn’t build cars that people aspire to own. The reason is simple - your attention is on cost cutting and it shows. Sure you’ve made some recent baby step improvements in design, but at the expense of cutting what may not be immediately obvious. But look a little closer and the cheap switchgear, hard plastics, lack of underhood beauty, thin carpeting, fixed vs. articulating headrests, lack of safety features etc - all become VERY obvious. Even Cadillac’s have way too much cheap looking matte black plastic on the IP, NAV screens that look like they were designed by a high school student, way too many gaps and dissimilar graining on the IP. And this is supposed to be your very BEST brand.
Bob, you are not kidding anybody by bringing an Opel brand that most shun in Europe as some sort of manna from heaven for Saturn. True, the Opel’s might just be better, but it’s only because Saturn had only one direction to go. The current designs were so gawd awful and pathetically bad that it just couldn’t get any worse. If some warmed over Opel is your idea of re-inventing GM, it’s obvious the bean counters have gotten to you as well. I thought you had guts. That’s what GM needs now more than ever.
When your focus changes from “as cheap as we can get away with” to let’s build it right and keep the design simple and very functional, the fate of GM’s future will improve. Your design team seems to care more about some “look” that they are after and they lose sight of many features or functions or useability that people actually care about. Is their objective to please the public and sell more cars, or to please some design director’s vision?
EVERYONE at GM needs to be graded based upon improving market share and sales volume. Purchasing, engineering, marketing and design teams all need to have that pinpoint focus. And this new direction needs to come from the top. Cost reductions to please your short term focus shareholders should be stricken from your vocabulary - that focus has not and will not make GM a great and lasting company.
Time to show your guts, Lutz!
Chris R
Bob,
I am one of the many that Mr. Langlitz mentioned that are wondering what will replace the current Saturn Ion. I’m also a current Ion owner, which, while it is a decent car, I’d really rather get the replacement if it turns out to be a great deal nicer for not much more in price. Please do share anything you’re able to about the new Ion replacement.
SteveG
About the Aura, I lambasted GM for ruining the front end of the car with those droopy eyelid foglamps. If you pick up a copy of Motor Trend you will find the design writer going over the Aura front to back and wondering why GM bothered to apply an odd extra piece of metal to partially cover the foglamps. He thought it looked ridiculous, so does everyone else.
Why?
Peter Wallace
From a Saturn owner’s perspective: I purchased a 1992 Saturn SC new from JJ Hogan at Saturn of Daytona in Florida. In 3 years I put 60,000 miles on the car and worked with JJ to trade my ‘92 SC for a loaded ‘95 SC2. Sadly, I sold my ‘95 SC2 last year (at my wife’s request) with 186,000 miles on the odometer. In that decade I had the oil changed every 3,000 miles and had regular servicing performed as recommended. The clutch went out and was replaced at 100,000 miles and (due largely to the FL heat) I went through a total of 6 car batteries over the life of the car. As much as I loved that little car, the fit and finish were merely adequate and there was an ever present rattle - which seemed to move around the cabin over the life of the car but oddly proved to be as persistent and reliable as the car itself. At the time, I didn’t buy the car because it was the best built (it wasn’t), or even the cheapest (it was), I bought it because it was different - polymer body panels, UAW working with management in Spring Hill, and an unbeatable dealer experience (for a non-luxury car). I’m now in my mid-30’s and I’ve been married a little over 2 years, my wife also being a former Saturn owner - ‘98 SL2 for 4 years before trading up to a Honda Accord EX V6 because she needed a larger vehicle. After getting involved in an accident that totaled the Accord (hit from behind on the highway by a careless driver), my wife and I went car shopping and decided on a 2006 Saturn Vue Red Line with a few options. I called up JJ Hogan at Saturn of Daytona, only to find that he’s still there and now the General Manager for the dealership. JJ did a great job of locating the exact car/equipment we were looking for and having it ready for delivery by the time we arrived. After almost 3 months of ownership, my wife has put 6,000 miles on the Vue and loves it.
Long story short… I’ve met hundreds of Saturn owners over the past 14 years since I bought my first and can tell you that the owners range from 16 year old girls to 86 year old guys. Some are true automotive enthusiasts (gear heads, like myself) and others are just friendly, ordinary folks. Most owners have loved their cars although none that I’ve spoken with have found the car to be “perfect” - they would consider another in the future if the need/opportunity arose.
My current daily driver is a loaded 2002 Nissan Maxima SE (3.5L V6 w/6-speed manual and factory LSD). Before I bought this car, I checked the Saturn dealership to see if there was anything comparable - there wasn’t, not by a long shot. I’m glad to see the Saturn line-up expanding and with better cars than ever before. Although I doubt the new crop of Saturns will have the same “charm” as my ‘95 SC2, I’m willing to give a 2007 Saturn SKY Red Line a chance early next year (assuming I can find one).
If you’re reading this Mr. Lutz, thanks for keeping Saturn alive - there’s a bunch of us out here who appreciate your efforts.
Also, in 1990 when I first went to a Saturn dealer to look at what this [then] new car company had to offer - a 1991 model year small coupe and sedan - I knew of the affiliation to GM, but it didn’t matter one way or another - every automaker gets a first chance. I’m glad I gave Saturn a chance the following year and have not regretted it since.
PW
Paul
Bob:
When are we going to be getting details of the Astra? What I’m interested in is whether the five-door will make it over here, and whether the 1.9L diesel engine will be available.
boblutzfan
My wife and I just got back from the San Antonio Auto Show where we were able to see the Outlook and Acadia. Unfortunately the Outlook was up on a stand where you weren’t able to get inside. The Acadia on the other hand was on the floor and being crawled in and all over by tons of interested people. After a long wait - here are my 1st hand Lambda impressions:
- It is huge. Definitely as big on the outside as a minivan. Obviously this is why it has class leading third row space and storage capacity.
- The interior is great - however I was a bit disappointed that the dash is primarily hard plastic. My 2004 Mazda6s has a nicer feeling dash than the Acadia. However - while it was hard plastic - it was similar to that in the Tahoe and Silverado - it was low gloss and of high quality.
- The switch gear inside felt solid and everything worked very smoothly. The ergonomics were 1st class. The Center Console was incredible to look at - the floor model has the navigation (which is how we will order ours) and looked very rich and high tech.
- True to their word the third row is adult sized. I am 5′11″ about 200 lbs and adjusted the front seat for my size and then climbed in the middle and third row - all were roomy. The 1st and 2nd row were very comfortable and the 3rd row was acceptable. I wouldn’t want to ride to Dallas back there - but I could say the same thing for my parents Chrysler T&C or my in-laws Odyssey.
- Slide and glide seats worked well to provide access to the third row.
- The doors had a nice “thunk” when closed - which is good considering the vehicle in question was probably a pre-production model.
All in all everything felt very high quality and very well put together - with the exception of one minor detail. The plastic (metallic) trim around the center console sliding door felt cheap and wasn’t well attached. Believe me - I spent at least a half an hour (in two sessions - I had to go back again before we left) going over every square inch of the Acadia. That was the only thing I found fault with. Not bad considering it is a pre-production vehicle.
Unfortunately the Enclave concept car was not there. A shame because the Buick area didn’t have a soul around save for a couple in their 50’s looking at the Lucerne. They could have used the excitement of the Enclave Concept to spark some interest in the brand.
After much looking my wife came down pretty hard that she didn’t want wood trim in her next vehicle - so the Acadia will be it. She was pretty excited and we can’t wait to testdrive one to confirm the choice.
It is one of the best CUVs on the market - GM definitely has a hit on their hands.
desmo
Bob, I’ve rented the Vectra a few times in Europe. I’d buy one of those tomorrow, but I won’t even consider an Aura. What’s that tell you?
As an Opel Vectra for America, Aura falls short. It needs a DOHC four — a turbo version would be nice, too — and a manual gearbox. This would result in a car alot like the current Saab 9-3 (and would free up the Saab to be more Saab-like once again). As it is, the Aura’s but a nicer-looking Malibu. Even if the take rate on a more enthusiast oriented Aura is low, offering one builds street credibility for the car and the Saturn brand. And I’m not talking about a Redline version with an extra $6K in the MSRP.
Mike Budig
Hi Bob,
I would like to offer kudos to you and Rick Wagoner on your success.
I share the opinion of others, this blog is interesting, please limit the NASCAR info on it. You may be misreading your audience on this website.
I love my new suburban, good job. Everyone I know with Yukon/Suburban loves them.
Mike
Rick Lupori
Mr. Lutz: Thanks for the new Saturn Aura, Outlook and Vue; as you have stated these vehicles are proof that GM can build competitive vehicles for the U.S. market.
Will Saturn offer the Astra Twin Top for sale in the U.S.?
This would be a great addition for next spring and IMHO is the best looking of all the Astra models.
Saturn needs a 4 place convertible for potential Sky buyers who need a back seat.
If Saturn does not offer the Twin Top at least copy the styling in a 2 door hardtop or Quad Coupe, this would give GM a very strong competitor to the Civic Coupe.
Add the Panoramic Windshield option to a Twin Top hardtop coupe and GM would redefine the small sport coupe market.
This is the kind of “Wow” factor GM needs in a vehicle to get young buyers attention and the 260 HP 2.0L Turbo from the Sky Redline would seal the deal.
Rick Lupori
Mr. Lutz: Now that Saturn is on the way to better sales and market share; focus needs turned to SAAB.
SAAB can be a competitor to Acura, Audi, Subaru and Volvo by targeting specific models in each.
I am disappointed that GM will not bring the Zafira to the U.S. market. The Zafira has excellent interior utilization with 7-passenger room in a package the size of the HHR. When the Delta 2 architecture is updated GM should look into applying crossover styling to the Zafira and offering it as a SAAB 9-4x giving GM a desirable vehicle for both the U.S. and European markets. Offer the Bio Power Hybrid system from the 9-5 for a “turnaround by design” vehicle that would do wonders for GM’s image.
A new 9-4x based on the Delta 2 Zafira would provide 7-passenger capable competition for the Forester and RDX.
The same could be said of the Outlook, take the styling of the SAAB 9-7x and apply it to the Outlook and you would have another dual market winner 9-6x. Offer Turbo Diesel engine as an exclusive 9-6x option to differentiate the 9-6x from the Outlook in the U.S. You could slip the 5.3L V8 in from the Impala SS for an Aero version complete with 20″ wheels from the Aero-X concept.
The 9-6x would provide superior 7-passenger comfort to the MDX and the 5.3L AFM powered 9-6X Aero a capable competitor to the Audi Q7 and Volvo XC-90 V8.
An interesting side note is that the Audi Q7 is selling better in Europe than the U.S. illustrating that there is a European market for crossovers of this size. Since SAAB is a European brand that would seem to have a strong home market for this type vehicle it make sense to make a SAAB version of the Lambda.
SAAB could produce an A3, A4, Acura TSX and WRX competitor from the Delta 2 platform with 3 door and 5 door hatch versions recreating styling cues and wrap around windshield from early SAAB Turbo models. At one time a SAAB had distinctive styling with performance and a bonus of utility that drew buyers to SAAB and why many left when SAAB stopped making these cars.
The next generation Epsilon architecture with AWD capability will give SAAB 9-3 sedans to address Acura TL, Audi A-4 and Volvo S-60 models and a AWD tall wagon version of the 9-3 Sport Combi to take on the Audi Allroad, Volvo XC70 and Outback.
The next 9-5 could compete with the Acura RL, Audi A6 and Volvo S80.
When will the Bio Powered 9-5 be offered in the U.S?
Sir Richard Branson just bought one because it can run on eco-friendly bioethanol and help Mr. Branson’s goal of reducing greenhouse gases.
Has GM contacted Mr. Branson as a possible spokesperson for the SAAB 9-5 BioPower?
Having an individual of Mr. Branson’s caliber standing behind a SAAB product could do wonders for SAAB’s image in the U.S. market, not to mention GM’s image.
Rick Lupori
Mr. Lutz.: Now that the Opel-Saturn connection has been made and the pipeline primed with great product how about the Holden-Pontiac one?
One interesting twist would be a RWD version of the new Delta 2 architecture shared with Holden and Pontiac with aggressive fastback styling like the Astra Twin Top or new Scirocco.
This would give Pontiac a completely different vehicle than Chevy or Saturn with RWD performance potential with an AWD model as an option. Offering a RWD model in more than one market would reduce the development costs. There are plenty of great powertrains and the highest performance versions could be used for these models since front wheel torque steer would not be an issue. There may even be a market in Europe for this car as the new Opel Manta.
The Solstice could also be used for a Holden-Pontiac 2+2 sport coupe and a 4 Door sedan or the Torana concept could be developed into a bare bones performance alternative to the BMW 3-series just like the original GTO was a low cost performance option to higher priced competitors.
The Torana could also be used in a 3-Door model for a new Firebird.
GM could use the same philosophy for a RWD Epsilon 2 replacement for the G6 and develop an AWD crossover competitor to the X-3.
The new Commodore lineup will easily supply Pontiac with replacements for the GTO (2D) and Grand Prix (4D).
I think this strategy will work as well for Holden-Pontiac as it has for Opel-Saturn.
getalifeagain
I liked it when it was a concept, and I think it’ll do well.
bsoudi
Just some feedback on the Fastlane blog in general…
I really like what FastLane WAS all about before — getting the GM story out. But I find myself visiting a lot less now that it has become NASCAR central. I’m a big NASCAR fan, but there’s just too much of it here.
Especially if you’re trying to tell the story of the future and cutting edge technology of the “new GM.” Everyone who know anything about NASCAR knows that NASCAR cars have little more in common with the cars you’re hoping we’ll buy than a logo on the hood.
Here’s a tip — start a NASCAR blog for all the “we unloaded the haulers and headed for Miami!” cheerleading.
Save the NASCAR posts in FastLane for how NASCAR actually makes the cars you want us to buy better than Toyotas and BMWs.
Beaugrand
Wade Morefield said:
“…I’ve run across more than one person that owned a Saturn and didn’t even know it was a GM product! Is that good or bad? I don’t know. But it doesn’t speak well of a Saturn buyer’s interest in automobiles.”
I think that’s exactly the point, Wade, Saturn is the brand for people who aren’t car enthusiasts- we have Pontiacs (and some Chevys) for them. In that respect, it’s a clever marketing move- the brand for “non-car people,” or the “green” brand (although, to me, a “green SUV” is a bit of an oxymoron).
A really clever marketing move would be to make ALL Saturn models E85 FlexFuel vehicles, and to make the most fuel-efficient “captive imports” (such as a badge-engineered version of the Daewoo-made Chevy Aveo) available to Saturn dealers (since it seems GM has locked itself into perpetual badge-engineering of imports for all divisions).
Chris R
Beaugrand said:
“I think that’s exactly the point, Wade, Saturn is the brand for people who aren’t car enthusiasts”
Please be careful of those blanket statements. In this case, they’re wrong. Yes, Saturn has gotten to be as appliance-like as Hondas and Toyotas in the fact that they’re quite functional, and they just keep going long after you might have expected them to die. To answer Mr Luporis statement: No Saturns have ever had Honda engines. I know they last as long, or sometimes longer than Hondas, but the old sub 2 liter fours were Saturn exclusive, and the Ecotecs that replaced them are obviously GM engines.
that said, Many enthusiasts have bought Saturns. Not really for any performance aspects, but because we need a solid reliable car that can be driven year round. In winter when the hot rod gets put away, and in summer to run to the auto parts store to keep the hot rod running.
kurtW
Steven, there is one GM Epsilon car that has a ton of head and leg room in it for rear seat passengers - the Malibu Maxx, which will be no more after 2007.
And Bob L., it’s sad that while all the car reviews I’ve read say the Maxx is the most inovative and useful of the Malibus, that’s the Malibu being killed.
Perhaps the Maxx could have been tweaked to become a replacement for the rattly Vue instead?
saturned1
As an 11 year Saturn sales consultant I am very interested in the IONs replacement. Saturn was struggeling when the L series was discontinued as we no longer had a mid-sized vehicle.
Now that the AURA has arrived, the next challenge will be the gap between the stoppage of production of the ION on 3/31/07 and the arrival of the replacement vehicle.
Without a smaller vehicle, we will be at a disadvantage as the least expensive sedan will start at $20,495.
Corto
Steven
You need to try the Saab 9-3, the best Epsilon-based car and the only one likely to keep you away from BMW, even though it is much more affordable. If the rear headroom is not adequate, sit in the 9-5, the Swedish limousine and unfortunately, the best kept secret in the automobile industry.
york mills
hey bob, start putting the 3.6l in more cars to stay in the competition. The midsize and full size car markets are moving toward that direction. Look at the camry, avalon, accord, altima,and maxima. They all have their premimum engines in their cars. but gm doesn’t. Look at the buick for example. the lucerne has an engine thats used the same technology for over 20 years. i think its time to put something comepetitive and efficent into cars like the impala, lucerne, grandprix, malibu, and g6. also start gearing up those 6 speed hydramatics to stay with the competition.
Besa
Yeah,I think gm is coming back to life.I was looking into stocks as well very recently because I guess one can not go wrong with you guys.Bob and Rick you are doing a great job keep it up.This is one tool that most car manufactures do not have and at atleast we can advise you on what we feel is right and wrong on the various vehicles we drive from gm.
Ok one last thing though is it possible to limit the Nescar Stuff?I know most people of this site are men but well we are more into cars that the sport about cars.keep an open eye and ear to this.Happy turkey day
Anna
So many “Professors”, which remind me of a picture with all light and no shade. I suggest, let’s just listen to Bob!
rj
all of the effort to ‘euro’-fy Saturn will be meaningless without: 1) efficient 4 cylinder European engines that aren’t complete dogs & 2) manual transmissions mated to both the aforementioned 4 cyl engines, but also high performance 6 cylinder powerplants like the currently available 3.6 L High feature V6. These engines / trans combos need to be options on both the Aura or Vue.
André
Saturned1, the perfect replacement for the ION is made in my country, Brazil, and Poland. Here General Motors do Brasil calls it Chevrolet Vectra. In the land of Pope John Paul II and Lech Walesa, it’s the Astra C Sedan. It’s a project enterely engineered here, because Opel didn’t preview a sedan in its third-gen Astra. So, GMB filled this gap and also supplied the project to be sold in Eastern Europe.
First of all, the car is 4.61 m long (181.5 in). A little less than a Cobalt, but rides on the same wheelbase of the HHR (2.7 m, or 106.3 in). It also has a huge trunk of 526 l (almost the same of a Jetta and even bigger than bigger cars like the LYs sedans from Chrysler). Having these dimensions, it also stays far from colliding with the Aura and distinguishes itself from a Cobalt that rides on the short wheelbase Delta.
Here in Brazil as you in the US, most of the consumers can¬¥t help falling in love with sedans. If there’s a model that offer hatchback and sedan bodies for nearly the same price, the sedan will be preferred. An example of this in my country is the Corsa, that sells a lot more in its sedan form than in the hatchback version. GMB also has a huge experience in sedans. The first passenger car was a sedan: the Opala (basically a Rekord C body reworked to use the Chevy II/Nova drivetrains), released in 1968. Maybe GMB is the biggest sedan seller here, so, there’s a lot of experience in this subject.
Returning to our Vectra, if you see its lines, will notice a lot of resemblance to the Aura and Opel cars. So, it more than matches the new Saturn theme and if the Aura is being so well received, looking like a small brother helps a lot.
Let’s also remember that GMB, as far as I know, is the biggest CKD seller of the group in the world. In the case of an ION replacement, it would be a semi-knocked down, because you have the basis and the engines. I imagine that being so close tied to America, a Saturn would be better received it made in America. So maybe the SKD option fits best and fills at least the proposal of the ION Sedan. So, the problem shifts to what would replace the Quad Coupe, because the Astra C family doesn’t have a true replacement for a fixed-head coupe, only if you consider the 3-door Astra GTC our the the convertible version as capable to replace it. Well, I guess that if the Astra lands in the US, maybe will be in a higher range of versions, having the GTC and the 5-door hatch on the short wheelbase and sedan on the long one, remaining only the doubt if there would be a coupe.
tollytime
The GMC Acadia is not available in Black?
Hello members and staff. I have not posted on this site for some time. I usually call on everyones expertise to get feedback on those hard to find answers concerning GM cars. I do not reveal my position in the auto industry for certain political reasons. It has been a great benefit to use this website on a daily basis.
You can get any color you want on the 2007 Acadia as long as it’s (not) Black?!! That’s right, no black color option appears in the brochure. There is an option for Carbon Metallic, but not Black. No Black on the order form either. Is GM that bad when it comes to knowing their market? Does any one have any answers?
It even gets worse! It has come to my attention that the marketing people at GM have taken a whole new direction in how they market their products to the public. They plan to sell an incomplete vehicle to the public and push aftermarket components in order to complete the package. It all started a few years ago with 20″ inch rims and bug deflectors in an attempt to capture revenues from the expanding aftermarket industry. It seemed like common sense, until they actually made the attempt. Instead of offering the accessories as factory options, they pressed their dealers to buy the parts from a GM distribution network and install it at the dealership. The results were horrible. The body kits and sport racks were poor quality and way over priced. The body kits had to be painted and required drilling holes into the body (yikes!). Unfortunately, GM doesn’t want to give up. It looks like the Acadia will be a part of their new plan to shove aftermarket parts down the consumers throat.
The new Acadia will not be available with factory running boards or cross bars for the integrated roof rack. Those will be added accessories you will have to buy through the overpriced GM accessory catalog. The 19″ inch chrome rims in the brochure will only be available as aftermarket accessory to the tune of $3000!!(whoa!!) The Full-size GM pickups will also come under the new aftermarket plan as well.
I’m not a marketing whiz, but I don’t think selling incomplete vehicles to the public will win new buyers. When you see an Acadia in an advertisement with 19″ chrome rims and find out it’s going to cost $3000 to complete the picture, you will probably walk out the showroom door. You won’t even get credit for the 19″ machined aluminum rims that came with the car originally!! Hah!, running boards? That’s gonna cost you extra! By the time you tally up the extras, the Lexus or Acura is looking like a better deal.
I really want some insight people. Fire away!!
Rick Lupori
Mr. Lutz: Congratulations on Buick being the #1 seller of foreign cars in China and more surprising is that Buick sales in China are higher than the U.S.
This opens up many possibilities for Buick and in place of the Opel-Saturn or Holden-Pontiac connections Buick would expand offerings by selling in two large markets.
This illustrates that Buick can be a vibrant brand when the correct features are offered on Buick vehicles.
Success in the China market is driven by putting luxury features on a luxury car; that may sound obvious but when you evaluate U.S. market Buick models there are glaring omissions and numerous areas of obvious cost cutting like missing basic safety options like Fog Lights that even “Value Leader” cars offer.
A 60% return buyer rate is great for the Lucerne and Rendezvous but there is no way GM will attract owners of Lexus and other luxury car owners with vehicles that are missing options that “Value Leader” cars offer.
It means that Fog Lights and Cornering Lights are standard on every Buick model along with 8 way power seats with memory not the antiquated 6-way power one that is standard.
12-way heated and cooled leather seats and luxury features like rear seat sunshades, heated rear seats with massage, DVD Navigation, Head-Up Display, DVD players, Bluetooth communication and theater class surround sound offered as options not missing from the list of features.
All of these are optional equipment on Chinese market Lacrosse models.
This problem is almost to easy to fix, in most cases these features are available on higher level models that just need to be packaged as options on lower level cars - how hard can that be??????
And GM will increase sales, improve profit margin and help boost the resale value of Buick models.
Who is going to pay a premium price for a used Buick that does not have options available on many economy cars?
This lack of quality luxury features as standard or at least offered as options is killing Buick resale values and makes the world class quality Buick models have had for 10 years a moot point.
GM has an easy fix for the seats also - just put the excellent 12 way seats from the GMC Sierra SLT models in all Buicks with the Escalade seats on top level models.
Add these options to the Lacrosse and watch sales skyrocket, they could easily double - that is correct a 100% increase in sales just by adding options.
Even more gains would be seen with higher quality interiors and 6-speed automatic on both the 3800 and 3.6L.
Don’t overlook the 3800 engine, most of Buick repeat buyers and Buicks world class quality ratings can be tied directly to this engine. Remember that there are thousands of luxury car buyers that want a high content car at a reasonable price that returns over 30 MPG in the real world. The 3.6L engine is available for buyers wanting a DOHC engine and will pay for it, although Buick should introduce direct injection to this engine for more power and MPG.
Next year would be a good time to start, why not bring back the “California Lacrosse” model with Fog Lights, Chrome wheels, 12 way power seats, rear seat sunshades and optional Navigation system with backup camera and Bluetooth communications?
Obviously the same would be offered on the Lucerne and it would not hurt to offer a direct injected 3.6L on a midlevel model either to broaden the Lucerne’s market.
Offer it on both the CXL and CXS models and advertise it during the early Golf Tournaments in Los Angeles, Torrey Pines, La Costa and Pebble Beach.
After all the Torrey Pines match is the “Buick Open”.
Rick Lupori
Hello again Mr. Lutz: After you fix the option packaging of the Buick lineup focus needs put onto future product.
The next Lucerne would be on the 118.9″ wheelbase Lambda architecture with FWD and AWD capability and offer luxury interior features like heated rear seats with reclining seat backs and DVD entertainment as options.
The Velite coupe would be on a 114″ wheelbase and offered in hardtop coupe and convertible models.
Moving to the Epsilon 2 architecture the Lacrosse would be the first car to be offered in AWD, FWD and RWD models.
Since Buicks primary focus is on FWD luxury the base Lacrosse would be FWD with a 2.0L Turbo for high MPG and offer the 3500 V6 and 3.6L DOHC on mid and upper level models. The AWD version would also be offered in three levels with 3500 and 3.6L engines and the Gran Sport would offer a 5.3L AFM V8 with 6-speed automatic in AWD and RWD.
A new Delta 2 based Century sedan could be Buicks volume seller in both the U.S. and China markets.
This model could be GM’s best seller in the luxury small car market and even be the best seller in this segment in California.
A Buick as a best seller in California sounds impossible but if you pick the right car to “benchmark” it can be done.
E-mail me if you want to know the “target” car. A hint is that is has been out of production for over 10 years.
The new Electra would be based on the RWD Holden Statesman and must offer a world class list of equipment.
The Enclave looks great and if what I have read is true should be a blockbuster hit - just don’t forget the luxury equipment.
Seats on all Buicks would use the excellent GMT 900 front buckets seats for cost savings. 6-passenger interior models would start with full feature GMT 900 heated buckets in cloth or leather with a fold out console in the center seat section. The fold out portion would have storage for iPod, MP3 players and lap tops with 12 and 110 volt power supplies. A storage compartment or subwoofer would be in the bottom cushion under the fold out section.
And please bring the EFIJY over as a Buick, it will give GM a guaranteed crowd at every Buick dealer for months.
After all what good it having all of these great cars to sell if nobody knows about them or is willing to go to the dealer to test drive them?
column
Mayday! Some Cars Will Lose OnStar Link
By KEN BELSON
Published: November 19, 2006
Link to Original Article @ NYTimes
user posted image
FOR the last decade, OnStar has promoted itself as a paragon of convenience and peace of mind for car owners. Best known for its ability to bail out customers in a jam – and even make an automatic call for help when an air bag has been deployed in an accident – the service has about four million subscribers.
OnStar makes its pitch in a series of alarming radio advertisements that use recordings of actual emergency calls to demonstrate how operators in an OnStar call center are standing by to summon an ambulance, open a car with a child locked inside or track a vehicle that has been stolen. At the push of a button, the operators are available to give directions or to act as concierges, pointing subscribers to the closest gas station or Chinese restaurant.
But the operators will soon be signing off for some of OnStar’s longstanding customers. The dropped connection is a result a little-known decision by the Federal Communications Commission in 2002 that allows cellphone companies to shut down their analog networks beginning in February 2008.
The decision will affect not only mobile phone users in rural America and other places where digital networks have yet to be built, but also hundreds of thousands of subscribers with older cars whose OnStar systems rely on those analog networks. Some subscribers with 2002 model year or newer cars can have their cars converted to digital equipment, or their cars may already be equipped with the needed hardware.
OnStar, which was a $199 option when they bought their vehicles, will become largely obsolete in 15 months in some 2002-4 models, as well as all models before 2002, because the OnStar electronics cannot be upgraded. Some Acura, Audi, Subaru and Volkswagen owners will also be affected.
Verizon Wireless, the network of choice for OnStar, has not said how or when it will dismantle its analog network, though it has not ruled out shutting off the service all at once. More likely, industry analysts say, the networks will be turned off in stages.
That’s cold comfort for Michael Farris. His wife, Vickie, drives a 2002 GMC Yukon and uses OnStar for routing help in unfamiliar areas and to talk hands-free with her cellphone using OnStar’s connection to the truck’s audio system.
The truck has about 40,000 miles on it and runs well, so Mr. Farris wants to keep it beyond 2008. He must now consider whether to sell it, find one of the few aftermarket alternatives, or go without.
“This thing we paid for is going to turn into a pumpkin,” Mr. Farris, chancellor of Patrick Henry College in Purcellville, Va., said. OnStar’s decision to use analog-only technology “was like putting an eight-track tape player into a new vehicle.”
OnStar’s decision to use analog networks made sense a decade ago when the service was started because they were the most pervasive and reliable. Even as digital networks expanded in recent years – their greater call capacities for a given amount of wireless bandwidth made them attractive to phone companies – analog networks were often the only ones working in rural areas.
Analog’s broader coverage was also a good reason for home security companies like ADT to use the networks, and now they are grappling with the ruling as well. They, like OnStar, tried unsuccessfully to persuade the F.C.C. not to sunset the analog network, the industry term for the phaseout.
OnStar created a Web site to alert customers to the coming changes. But for drivers with older cars, there is little more the company can do.
Critics, Mr. Farris included, say OnStar was negligent in continuing to install analog-only equipment before and after 2002 when it was clear that the phaseout of their supporting networks might be coming.
OnStar declined to make an executive available for this article, but in a statement said, “We at OnStar sincerely regret that we will not be able to provide OnStar service to vehicles with analog-only hardware after Dec. 31, 2007.” When asked why it continued to install equipment that could not be upgraded even after the F.C.C. ruling, the company said that “each vehicle has its own development and manufacturing schedule, not all vehicles will receive the same OnStar equipment at the same time.”
Dealers will upgrade some 2002-4 vehicles to work on digital networks if customers buy a three-year subscription to the Safe and Sound package at $199 a year.
The company would not say how many of its subscribers have analog-only or upgradeable equipment. But as many as half of OnStar’s customers, or two million subscribers, now drive cars that cannot be upgraded, according to Frank Viquez, an industry analyst at ABI Research.
Two-thirds of those cars will be sold or traded by their original purchasers by early 2008, leaving 500,000 to 700,000 OnStar buyers out of luck, Mr. Viquez said. G.M. plans to make OnStar standard in all its cars by the end of 2007. That will be too late for Mr. Farris, though, who feels OnStar and G.M. should have done more, switching to upgradeable technology far sooner.
“Those were $5 business decisions that are going to come back and haunt them,” he said. “It’s going to disillusion a bunch of G.M.’s best customers.”
Phil Racicot
Hi Mr Lutz,
It’s amasing to see the number of comments about Buicks every time there is a discussion about Saturn products.
I also think Buick needs cars like those that I drive. The Electra, Wildcat, Riviera, Sportwagon and Gran Sport from the mid sixties to the mid seventies are the most interesting Buicks ever made. None of them are FWD, most were available in the very popular pilarless hardtop body style which Buick was the first to introduce on both 2dr and 4dr modelsand the wagons were cool. When I saw a Lucerne CX in the parking lot of my Pontiac/Buick dealer (there were no Buicks in the showroom) while I had the oil changed in my ‘75 Electra Limited, I was happy that I owned a ‘75 Buick, not a ‘07! My 32 years old Electra has more features than that poor Lucerne has, it even has a two level deployment passenger airbag, something that’s supposed to be new on the Lucerne this year!
The original seat material on my car looks much better after 32 years than the stuff that found it’s way on the Lucerne CX. And this Lucerne lacked other things like the Automatic Climate Control and 6 way power passenger seat that mine has… I understand that this is the base model but I think that even the base model should surpass in every way a 32 years old Buick!
And the Lucerne’s front overhang is almost as long as my Electra’s rear overhang is!
And FWD architecture on such a car is unacceptable, those who complain about full size RWD cars winter abilities don’t know what they are talking about. I have driven RWD Buicks in winter since I’m 16 years old and they are fantastic.
I find it odd that Buick got rid of it’s “Limited” (used since 1936 on Buicks) and “Gran Sport” trim designations. I noticed that many manufacturers now use the “Limited” name for their products and it seems to be popular. And Gran Sport or GS are also associated with sportier Buick since the mid sixties. Why were they removed from the Buick line and replaced with 80’s Hyundai sounding CX and CXL?
The Croc
Good luck GM with this new Saturn, but for every success this company has, there seems to be some kind of setback related to beancounting stupidity, like the PR-debacle-waiting-to-happen with OnStar.
I’m sorry, but WHY can’t GM upgrade analog-only customers with dual or digital only equipment? They have over a year to find some kind of retrofit, and since many models became dual NOT at the start of an all-new model, I highly doubt it is physically impossible to take an analog-only vehicle and at the very least make it dual through a physical equipment upgrade.
I’m just trying to fathom what excuse GM will use on this one…”newer equipment won’t fit in a vehicle?” Then install one of those little transmitters on the roof of the car and house the equipment in there! These older OnStar customers were the ones with the antennae that would fall off the rear windshield, so I KNOW OnStar being “attached” externally to a vehicle won’t bother these older customers.
Unless someone with some insider technical knowledge can prove to me it is impossible to install new OnStar equipment, I’m not going to believe this.
Does OnStar never break? Does the equipment never become fried? What has GM done then in those cases? Just said “Oops, you no longer can have OnStar?”
This is something GM needs to address before it turns more people off from the company than the Chevrolet Vega did.
Jake Storms
Bob,
Only one question and this is a question I am seeing more and more of on GM fanboy forums ALL around the net. Will there be a DVD Navigation option on this?????????? Will DVD Nav option be added to other vehicles in the $20,000-30,000 range in the near future??? It is very kind to offer the OnStar turn by turn thing as standard. But that will cost you on a month to month basis for the life of the car. Also, it is just not the same as having a Nav unit with a large screen to show you exactly where to turn and also being capable of playing DVD’s, being utilized for back up camera, and various other things. GM will continue to loose MANY MANY buyers that REALLY REALLY want to buy a GM, all because the car they want can NOT be had with a DVD Navigation screen!!! You need to address this issue ASAP!!!
getalifeagain
Future and Present of GM
What I think GM must put heavy concentration into now, is the 100,000,000 or so persons born after 1980. This is a segment of the buying population now and a giant size portion of the buying population in the future.
There are a myriad of ways of doing this, but I think that the consumer markets of these young are the key. Every sort of habit and way of living that they do and will do must be taken into consideration. And it must be each of the different wants of the different populations (e.g. white, black, hispanic, oriental, etc.).
Rick Lupori
Mr. Lutz: Will the new 4-Door Astra Sedan replace the ION sedan?
This car would redefine the small sedan market with the HUGE trunk capacity of nearly 18 cu. ft. That is more than the Camry or Avalon in a car the size of the Cobalt (and current ION). It also has legroom competitive with the Camry and much more than the Cobalt/ION. The styling is attractive as is the interior and with a high MPG 1.8L engine with smooth shifting 5-speed it will be more than capable of challenging the Civic 4-Door and could even outsell it in a few years.
The Estate (wagon) also has a much larger interior than the exterior size would suggest. There is nearly 6 feet of cargo length and over 36″ of rear leg room.
And of course the 3-door and 5-door hatch have to be brought over along with the Twin Top.
Don’t forget the Vectra Estate as it also has enormous interior space with nearly 7 feet of cargo length and 38″ of rear leg room.
The 5-door hatch Vectra would make a great SAAB 9-3 Turbo Hatch.
Rick Lupori
Mr. Lutz: The new GMT 900 architecture provides the most interesting options for new designs.
A new narrowed version of the light duty chassis derived from 1500 models but with IRS added for better handling in 116″, 119″, 130″ and 140″ Wheelbases would be used for the next H3, Canyon, Trailblazer and Cheyenne mid size truck and SUV models similar to what Nissan does with the Titan/Frontier.
The GMC Canyon would be a midsize pickup like the new Tacoma and be offered in Regular Cab 116″ WB, Extended cab 130″ WB and Crew Cab 130 or 140 ” WB and would have the 4.2L I6 as standard with 5.3 AFM V8 as an option. It would be a GMC exclusive and if sales are strong enough a Chevy Cheyenne would be offered. The H-3T can also use this chassis.
A new Astro mid size van in RWD and AWD versions for loyal Astro owners and minivan buyers wanting to tow could be made from the same chassis.
The 116″ WB would be used for the new Trailblazer and H3 and be the only mid size SUV models offered.
A shortened 100″ and 110″ WB chassis with solid axles would be the basis for a shorter H4 (Wrangler size) HUMMER as well as a K5 “Blazer” version of the Trailblazer.
Tahoe and 1500 Suburban models would go to an IRS suspension to increase third row leg room and allow the third row seat to fold flat.
The GMT 900 will also be used as a base for the next generation Express and Savanna.
A “Dual Fuel” Gasoline/CNG (or LPG) AWD model the IRS and lowered ride height suspension would make a good “Westfalia Camper” model The propane or CNG tank that would be used only occasionally for the stove and fridge could be utilized when not needed for camping. A twin mode hybrid with electric generator and battery pack would be an option. As a camper it would have “Plug In” connections built in.
A smaller Astro van version could also be offered.
A pickup version of the Express could be created with up to 8 passenger capacity with either 6 regular doors or extended cab doors for the third row. The shorter cab would allow this larger cab with a short box 5′8″ or 6′6″ bed on the long 8′ chassis. A “sleeper cab” model could also be offered with all of the features found on an 18 wheel truck version.
Rick Lupori
Mr. Lutz: The added uses for a modified GMT900 only begin with a
Midsize Truck
Midsize Van
Midsize SUV
More spacious Tahoe and Suburban
New Full Size Van
New Full Size Van based Pickup with sleeper cab
The following new car platforms can be derived nearly “free” from the same chassis and these models will make a large profit with “Retro” styling no other carmaker can compete with.
Bel Air
Nomad
El Camino in 1969 and/or 1970 styling
A new series of “retro-modern” 55-57 Bel Air car models would also use the new narrow chassis and be very popular with their high “H” point and interior comfort.
Interiors would bring back the 50’s style big bench with modern touches like fold out console with DVD entertainment center, storage for lap tops and reclining rear seats.
Nomad models would be offered in AWD versions and use extended cab doors to maintain 2 door styling, and would be a RWD Crossover for Chevrolet eliminating the need for a Chevy Lambda based SUV.
The El Camino would return and have an AWD model and a 4 door model shared with the Holden Crewman and Cross 8.
Taxi specific versions could be designed using many of the much loved Checker cab looks and large interior space.
There are no competitors to any of the car models or the midsize vans giving GM four new HIGH PROFIT vehicle lines with sales easily breaking the 350,000 mark combined.
Think of the profit potential these cars would mean to GM, it would rival the income generated from the full size truck models.
Imagine DOUBLING the profits realized from the GMT full size trucks, and all for practically no cost and very little risk.
Mr. Langlitz (Germany)
Hi Rick,
interesting ideas at your comment, but I don’t think the Opel Manta will ever come back, although it achieved good sales. On the downside this model often was used by the public to serve certain silly cliches regarding their owners. Opel started an entire phase-out of its vehicles’ names like Kadett, Ascona, Rekord, Commodore or Manta (BTW, the Manta’s successor was the Calibra, once the only serial car with a aerodynamic cw-figure of 0.26), in order to demonstrate a clear transition to a new perception (image).
In my opinion (like already mentioned) the design- and engineering-departments of Saturn, Opel and Holden should team up in order to develop cars jointly, regardless what brand these will represent later in the showrooms. Holden also has a lot to do with Opel, even more since the Tigra TwinTop and Astra are sold Down-Under, either. I think already the Holden Statesman, which my uncle in Melbourne used to drive, was a “brother” of the Opel Senator, which was introduced in 1977.
Robert Wilson
So Croc, there are vehicles that have the Analog only Onstar hardware that will be upgraded to the new digital hardware. OnStar subscribers who have the Analog hardware will receive a notification regardless of their vehicle letting them know about next steps. A few vehicle with the Analog only hardware will not be upgraded, but most will be free of charge at your local dealership. OnStar will notify you regardless of your vehicle type and give you instructions for next steps including how to contact OnStar to see what and if you can take your car to a dealer and get the OnStar hardware upgrade from the old Analog hardware to the new Digital hardware. If you want to be proactive you can call 1-888-OnStar and talk to an advisor about your capability to upgrade. If you have OnStar they will be able to look at your vehicle and give you some direction. OnStar is a good service, so don’t make it out to be just leaving people in the mud. OnStar is going to do everything they can to make the transition to Digital available, but unfortunately some subscribers are going to be left out (very few).
Bob
André
Why not a new Manta on an extended Kappa platform? It would be a consistent comeback of RWD in Opel. It could also be rebadged as a Holden or, in the US, the same basis would be used to a new Pontiac Firebird, a bit smaller than the Zeta Camaro and resembling the ones from second to fourth generation, and also using the LS V8 engines, which Mallett Cars proved to be fully adaptable to Kappa cars without sacrificing the balance between the axles and even not adding so much more weight than the Ecotec powertrain.
And also, let’s make reality a RWD platform to make home for cars from 3 to 5-Series sizes, in every part of the world and being made locally. Hey, as I said other times, GM do Brasil need for yesterday a car to fill the size and price slot between the Astra C Sedan/Brazilian Vectra and the Aussie Omega/Commodore. It would be a huge seller, because since 1998, RWD rides aren’t made in Brazil since the demise of the Omega A. Call it Opala (the antecessor of Omega A), make by the size of a Ford Fusion or Honda Accord and 5-Series’ spacious, sell it by a price ranging in the Fusion/Accord league, style it in the heritage way (Opala had a lot of front and rear ends designs, all of them keeping the remarkable Coke-bottle beltline and a very fluid body). Put a 4-banger 2.4 16v engine (the top Brazilian Vectra has it) for the basic model and import a V6 (it can be OHV, since it has VVT and DOD) from Mexico or Australia to power the top of the line. Make both of them flex-fuel capable, using anything from E0 to E100 (Renault did something as this in the Clio and M√©gane II) and using a cold-start system to alcohol that doesn’t need the little gasoline tank (Bosch and Magneti-Marelli are researching these technology). So, you would join the charisma and distinct style of the Opala to the technical excellence of the Omega A. It could make home for the real world version of the Torana TT 36 and even be the basis for the smaller than Zeta Camaro Firebird that I suggested before. And also a huge variety of other models in the planet.
Hey, what are you waiting for do something that here in Brazil would be an impact as the LX cars were to the US? Ford Fusion is selling very well because it’s in part filling the gap that GMB left, but not filling in its full form because of being a FF car.
DoesGMeverpersevere?
I can never quite believe it when I recall that the current minivans were sized around European requirements … even though it’s squarely an American cash cow. How many were sold under Opel? About 200? Talk about a lame brain move. It’s like making Opel compact cars a foot wider too accommodate American tastes. Illogical.
Typical GM … abandon or reduce investment in a segment you’ve been unsuccessful competing in (because of stale product). Then to feel better, tell yourself that the segment’s declining anyway. Think Camaro, large RWD sedans, compact pickups. …. Constrast with Toyota, which keeps plugging away at lackluster-selling Tundras until they find a version that sticks.
I honestly believe that one could fire the top 100 GM execs, and replace with 20 competent people, and the company would turn around on a dime.
talonsaab
Bob, don’t count out the Zafira in NA. The B segment is growing very quickly and gas isn’t getting cheaper. The Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, MB Bclass, Aveo are selling well and I see a lot on the road. The Mazda 5 has also been a big hit. The B segment is huge in Canada. I would take a serious look at this. As far as the Astra, it is crucial that we get the 3 dr hatchback in NA including the APC version. It will kill the Golf and Volvo C3.
Phil
Bring over both the 4-door AND hatchback Astras, and see which one sells the most
Govern your actions accordingly.
I just heard you were cancelling minivans off the Lambda platform. Once again, instead of redefining a segment with a model that obsoletes the competition, you tuck your tail and run away in fear. Then when you notice the hole in your market share, you build some mediocre low-cost adaptation of some bullshit that’s been on the market for too long.
BOB, WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU???
Recently, my friend needed to get a vehicle that could simultaneously please his wife and kids, haul the furniture he fixes for his clients, AND GET REASONABLE GAS MILEAGE.
His only choice was A MINIVAN!
You had the right idea in making them look more like trucks, but the lowest UNCOMMON denominator execution - too slim, no fold-away seats, way too heavy reinforcement of ancient platform.
NO EXCUSES, YOU GIVE US WORLD-TROUNCING MINIVANS at Chevy and Buick, or you’ll lose TONS MORE POTENTAIL CUSTOMERS! ‘09 MODEL YEAR TOO! NO EXCUSES!!
Patrick
Thanks for your comments, John C. I appreciate that you read my entry and gave your thoughts, too. While GM overall would be glad that my wife and I stayed in the GM family when replacing our SL1, I suspect Saturn would have preferred it if we’d stayed within their branch of the family. The Aura should give Saturn a shot at increasing its retention numbers rather than having those buyers spill over to a Grand Prix, Impala, etc. I was open to buying another Saturn but without the right product it wasn’t going to happen. For the record, we’re very happy with our Impala which is a great highway cruiser that delivers 30mpg in that mode.
Corto
Kuddos to the Aura- thumbs down to new 9-3 dash
Waiting for my 01 9-5 being serviced, I took an Aura XR for a drive and was very impressed by the drive-train, suspension and body integrity. The seats seem excellent (an oxymoron with past Saturns) and the dash well laid out, although I am not crazy about the bright orange around the dials and the slightly plasticky feel of the ensemble. But all in all, a great package for the price. No wonder my dealer has even taken Camrys in for trade.
I also took the time to sit in the 07 9-3 with the reworked dash. SOMEBODY SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS FIASCO. With all the publicity (falsely) linking Saab to jet-planes, it is very ironic that the «improved» dash leaves you with an annoying reflection of the stupid chrome trimming, directly in your line of vision. One does not need to own a jet fighter plane (hello Bob) to realize the absurdity of this backward move. What a shame, just when the 9-3 had great momentum.
In conclusion, when I returned to my faithful 9-5, I realized that even a powerful modern (but thirsty) V6 is no match to a well executed turbo 4 and the cozy 9-5 interior with soothing green illumination and no reflections was the result of intelligent designing, not a silly afterthought.
Mojojojo
I think the Zafira would have found a market here in North America. Given a more powerful engine, it could have competed with the Mazda5 and the upcoming Kia Rondo. It also would have fit better with the Saturn image than the large Outlook CUV.
bosco
Dear Mr. Lutz:
I know this is off topic; however, I read that GM may scrap the mini-van it had in the works. I think that will be a bad decision. My wife loves all the new Lambda based CUV’s, but will not allow me to buy one due to the lack of sliding doors! You see, when you have small kids it becomes impossible to get them in and out of cars in parking spots. That alone kills any other vehicle for my wife’s daily driver! I will be purchasing a car for me within the next several months. I will most likly go for the new CTS. But in 2008 my wife needs to replace her van. If GM does not have one out by that time, I would hate to go and get a Honda or Toyota!
Sean
How will Saturn distance itself from Onstar’s decision to obsolete safety services sold to previous and current GM customers?
All models prior to 2002, and some newer, equipped and sold with optional Onstar service, will lose Onstar service due to old analog technology.
OnStar, which was an option when most customers bought their vehicles, will become largely obsolete in 15 months in some 2002-04 models, as well as all models prior to 2002, because the OnStar electronics will not be upgraded.
Although some dealers can upgrade some 2002-04 vehicles to work on digital networks, if customers buy a three-year subscription to the Safe and Sound package at $199 a year, some cannot. They can offer you a new vehicle with new enhanced digital technology in exchange for your obsolete vehicle.
How will you ensure potential customers that the primary features you are selling today will not become obsolete and useless in as little as tomorrow?
Bruce Sherman
Bob,
Just put a V8 into the Sky Redline and you will not only have the ultimate halo car for Saturn, you will also create an automotive legend.
Bruce Sherman
Oakland, Oregon
Adam
Bob–
Just saw a new Saturn Lambda-based crossover on the road with manufacturer plates. It looks great, but that thing is a PORKER. It’s HUGE. Quit going for all our room in SUVs and deliver something under 4,500 lbs, that gets better fuel economy than the outgoing Trailblazer. Heck, my 1972 Oldsmobile 98 only weighed 4,300 lbs.
Rick Lupori
Mr. Lutz: I hope the recent news that GM may get out of the Minivan business is not true.
While the minivan market has softened lately it is still viable and can generate over 100,000 sales for GM.
Please note that the new Odyssey, Sedona and Entourage have increased sales and the Sienna is holding steady. Yes, Caravan sales have tapered off but a new model is around the corner and will not doubt energize sales.
GM can create one off the excellent Lambda or even the Epsilon 2 architecture for Chevrolet and sell it worldwide except for China where it may remain a Buick. If sales warrant it a Buick version like the China market model or a GMC version maybe created but only one of the two.
GM needs an entry in this market and the emerging markets of China, India, Russia, Turkey, Eastern Europe and South Africa may just show a large demand for this type vehicle.
I would lean towards a Lambda version since not much more than sliding doors need added to the sides, the room available on this platform is competitive and few other changes are required. The Lambda is also already AWD and GM could offer the first V8 minivan with the 5.3L AFM from the Impala.
The Epsilon 2 platform could be used and maybe less expensive and also offers AWD. Why not make FWD, AWD and RWD models available, the RWD model with V8 for buyers wanting to tow.
As other posts have pointed out GM is missing an opportunity in the small 5 passenger CUV market with Meriva and the 7 passenger small van market with the Zafira.
GM should offer the next generation of these models in the U.S. along with the next generation Holden Cruze.
The next Cruze could offer Turbo Diesel power and nearly 60 MPG in an easy to maneuver package. The Meriva has a very roomy interior and the road tests I have read have been favorable. The OPC version looks good and gets 37 MPG and the Turbo Diesel models deliver up to 55 MPG. Both of these vehicles could be derived from the Gamma platform.
I have driven the last generation Zafira with the Hydrogen Fuel cell and thought the Zafira handled well and was roomy for its size. The latest one is larger and if GM actually advertised the huge interior space with versatile Flex 7 seating and handling capabilities it would sell. There are three attractive models in the 40 MPG Turbo Diesel, 35 MPG 2.2L Direct-injected or 32 MPG OPC.
For the U.S. market the next generation Zafira could be stretched to a 110″ wheelbase and the 3500 V6 offered in a Crossover styled Buick Rendezvous similar to the Enclave except with 30 MPG capability. An SUV styled GMC Jimmy similar to the soon to be very popular Jeep Patriot except with the excellent power of the 3500 V6 and 30 MPG. The next HHR could offer 7 passenger seating and 3500 V6 with only a few inches added to its length. Some of the Outlook styling cues could be used on the Zafira to give it a Crossover look for Saturn and it would be a great base for a SAAB 9-4x. These vehicles are a perfect place to take full advantage of the 3500 V6 virtues of small size, lower cost, great low end torque, ability to use E-85 and high MPG capabilities. And please connect it to the 6 speed automatic.
What is the use of having eight different brands in the U.S. market if you do not offer unique to one brand models?
André
As Bruce Sherman said, a V8 Kappa from factory would be an automotive legend. Are just us, mere buyers and drivers, that see a huge concept resemblance between the Kappa roadsters and the old AC Ace? The AC used a straight-6 engine and all we know which was the most known piston configuration used in this classic most of its life and we know what a V8 did for this light roadster…
A V8 Kappa roadster would be the Cobra of the 21st century not needing to be retro to evoke a past…
noel park
Note “SMART FOR US” at the bottom of page 6 of the November 27 issue of Autoweek.
Whether one is a fan of Roger Penske or not, I have never heard anyone accuse him of being a poor businessman. I doubt that he is doing this for his health.
If GM/Chevrolet doesn’t do something spectacular in the meantime (plug in hybrid?), we will take our new Chevy piggybank and buy one of these when they become available.
We are dedicated Chevrolet customers. We own 6 Chevrolets for business and personal use. Even so, there is a limit to even our patience.
Dan Turner
Mr Lutz-
I recently traded in my 2006 Accord EX V6 on a Aura XR. In a nutshell I can say that the Aura is a considerably better vehicle than the current Accord. Ride, NVH, and design are a notch above. The 3.6L V6 and 6spd tranny are superb. You have slayed the dragon on vehicle dynamics and value.
Although I like the interior it is not quite up to HonToy standards but it is a significant improvement. The last Buick Lucerne I drove was up to standard so I know the expertise is there. Keep on refining and continue the product focus. Don’t take money out of the product if it affects fit and finish. People pay for quality!
In a nutshell I see a bright future for GM if SATURNS latest products are indicative of whats to come.
Dan
Chris R
Noel, Before you start going on about the Smart twofour, which is what we’re getting initially. I’d just like to point out that it has the single most uncomfortable driving position in any car to date. You are basically forced to sit with te seatback in it’s full verticle position. The car also has less trunk space than the Solstice, meaning none at all. I don’t even think it has a trunk. Plus, the car is useless out on the highway. All of this was reported to me by some European friends of mine who have experience with the car. The Aveo and cars like it are far better suited to the US market, and the price really isn’t all that different.
Mr. Langlitz (Germany)
Dear Mr. Lutz,
I presume, GM’s decision to phase out mini-vans should be based on reliable data and marketing research. If you are not ready to take the risk further to invest in the production of a type of vehicles with uncertain perspectives, in your eyes, I basically can comprehend this.
But on the other hand, at our media reports there’s repeatedly told about over-capacities at Opel’s plants. So, wouldn’t it make sense to reconsider your decision and to export the Opel Zafira to the USA?
John
Bob,
Will we get an Aura wagon here in the US?
John in Buffalo
noel park
Chris:
Yeah, but imagine how I will smile whan I cruise by the gas stations. 60 mpg with no complicated hybrid system? Not bad if true.
I think that we would just keep our 95 Impala for road trips, etc, and drive the Smart in the LA traffic. The Impala isn’t worth much, and it has a useful cool factor in SoCal. You should see the looks on the homies faces when my whitebread middle aged wife cruises past in the thing
As to the Aveo, or, better yet the US assembled Cobalt, I have commented at length about the need to get the mileage up to the level of the Fit/Yaris/Versa. If Chevy would do that, I could be deterred from the Smart, but I don’t see any movement in that direction.
It’s not rocket science. The Toyota man said it best. “Lighter cars with smaller engines.”
Paul
When are we going to get the 49mpg Lacetti TCDi in the States? That’s exactly the kind of car I’m looking for.
foreigncarowner
Hi. I like this 3 door, it would “out-Scion… Scion!” I have seen the supposed “real” version, a 5 door, Last generation Hyundai Santa fe look alike(not a good idea).
I have seen photos of the 3 door Astra hatchback…. (lengthen the doors, or something). I like the general idea( we have a scion tC, 67,000+ miles in under 27 months of ownership…32-34MPG. great little vehicle)
But, in the photos(one red, one blue) it looks like a 3 door version of (a mini-) Maxx and Caliber.
(the rear window is loooong, the doors kind of short, and it looks awkard….Great idea, though. maybe it’ll look better in person?).
Anyhow, you’re heading in the right direction over at GM/Saturn…at least.
Mr. Langlitz (Germany)
Hi Chris,
I absolutely agree with you. During the two days, when I got the LPG-system installed in my Olds Alero, I got a Smart ForTwo from my dealership. The Smart is not even that bad on the highway, but it’s horrible as soon as the road is not perfectly smooth. You nod your head at EVERY small bumpiness. This really sucks. What did my father-in-law say? “Somebody could swallow up the dental prosthesis…” Right. Further downside: The automatic transmission. It always pauses before getting the next gear and at least twice the reverse failed. I had to push the car out of the garage!
Noel, in addition this car never got 60 mpg, what’s the same like 3.9 liters/100 Kilometers. Its mileage might be high in the 40s, what’s still bad enough for such a pocket lamp on wheels. So I would like to recommend listening to Chris. I totally can confirm what he’s telling referring to my own experiences.
In any case my wife’s Aveo is running much cheaper. Why? It’s also using LPG.
pg
Bob,
It’s nice to see Saturn making some strides in the right direction, but I’m afraid GM will still miss the boat, so to speak. Before you commit large capital and labour costs to building more gas-guzzling V6 and V8s (even the ones that can run on four cylinders) into the next decade, check with in with some geologists and oil economists.
Unless they work for Exxon, they’ll tell you that sometime in the next ten years or so, we’re going to see more demand for oil than can possibly be supplied. It’s not complicated: rising demand (esp from China), decreasing returns to scale from oil production (and decreasing discoveries) means that the cost of oil will only keep increasing. And increasing. By 2010, how many people will be willing to by a new 20 MPG Camero, no matter how sexy, if it costs $2/Litre or $6/gallon to fill it up?
If you want to introduce some resilience to the GM brand, you’re going to need to start delivering fuel efficient vehicles. Small diesels, hybrids, diesel hybrids, 50+ MPG gasoline subcompacts — common GM, show some leadership, show some real innovation. And what better brand to do this than Saturn?! Go for it, and good luck.
BRE
Noel,
So what you got for sale ? Those six chevy’s you mention, maybe I am interested in one of them (95 Impalas are nice cruisers) your used chevy’s resale is probably worth a couple dozen of your soon to be smartmobiles that you are going to get right…
Chris R
“lighter cars with smaller engines”
I don’t recall anyone from Toyota saying that. If i recall, that was Lotus founder Colin Chapman saying that when discussing how to achieve better handling for sports cars. With cars like the Lotus Seven it proved quite true.
noel park
Mr. Langlitz:
Hi. I think I said several weeks ago, in response to your comments about LPG, show me an LPG Aveo in the US and I’m there to buy it.
Or, as the LPG infrastructure here is pretty weak, how about CNG as Honda has done? They even sell a unit to install in your garage to fill up with CNG overnight out of your house. That would work.
Or, just take enough weight out of the car and/or sharpen up the engine and/or give it an up to date transmission to get as good of mileage as the Scion mentioned above.
Or, put the Saturn Vue weak hybrid technology into something small (Aveo? Cobalt?) and light enough to allow some bragging rights mileage numbers.
Just do something!
I don’t want to buy a Smart, or any other import. I just wan GM to get off its butt and address this mileage issue which is allowing the imports to drive them to the brink.
Also, I would appreciate it if they would stop trying to spin us with this stuff about the EPA highway ratings.
Mr. Langlitz (Germany)
Hi Noel,
well, obviously there are no LPG-cars available in the USA as so-called OEM’s, but maybe there should also be an opportunity to install LPG-systems additionally at cars, which had been regular gasoline-vehicles so far. So I did it with my Alero. The system is from Landi Renzo. There are authorized workshops over here, which have the necessary know-how. Normally these should exist in the USA, either, but, of course, I’m not sure. CNG might be an alternative, but it’s not that convenient to handle like LPG and you don’t get the same range until you have to refill the tank. Maybe the AAA knows an answer or your local provider for Propane or Butane. In Germany there are registered only about 30.000 vehicles, using CNG, but in the meanwhile about 90.000 running on LPG. But that’s still relatively low. In Italy there are 2 million LPG-users.
noel park
pg:
Absolutely right. “American Theocracy” by Kevin Phillips nails this issue. It should be required reading for all GM executives.
BRE:
55 Corvette, 58 Corvette, 95 SS, 2000 S-10, 2004 Silverado 3500 crew cab 8.1 gas (you should see the instant mileage readout on this one) which tows the 2 Corvettes, 2006 Silverado.
None for sale , however.
Clearly, we need a high mileage car to balance this group, although the S-10 is now getting almost 27 mpg. As to the Smart being uncomfortable, try driving a stripper bottom of the line S-10 25,000 miles a year.
Chris R:
The President, CEO, or whoever it was from Toyota was quoted in Autoweek several weeks ago as saying those words, in response to a question about how to get better fuel economy in the future. If he stole the phrase from Chappers, I guess we should give him some credit for following history at least.
My dad worked sometimes with the great Kelly Johnson of the Lockheed Skunk Works. He said that Johnson had a sign in his office that said, “Simplicate and add lightness.” I think that he even predated Chapman. Obviously, it’s a basic engineering principle. You should see how hard we work to get weight out of our stupid Corvette vinatge racers. Always within the letter of the rules, of course.
Mr. Langlitz:
Before you say it, I know that the Aveo is an import. At least it has a bowtie on the front, so I guess we can rationalize it.
Anyone:
Is it true that a Pontiac Vibe is a badge engineered Toyota Matrix?
“Blogmaster”:
You guys are really improving the time interval before posting thse comments. Well done.
Gary Dikkers
Mr Langlitz said, “So, wouldn’t it make sense to reconsider your decision and to export the Opel Zafira to the USA?”
Mr Langlitz,
You are on to something, but I’d be surprised if GM America will listen
I had not heard of the Zafira until I read your post. Looked it up on the Internet and slapped my forehead saying, “Why isn’t GM selling this in the United States?”
If GM brought the Opel Zafira to the U.S. and made it available with the turbo-charged diesel, it would be right at the top of vehicles I would consider.
Tschuss,
Gary Dikkers
Chris Hayne
To Noel Park:
Yes, I confirm that the Pontiac Vibe is a badge engineered Toyota Matrix. It is based on the Corolla. Beyond the true sense of badge engineering, the Vibe and Matrix differ in the tail lights, front fascia AND some sheet metal (rare for badge engineered cars).
I own one - this is the way I was able to get Toyota build quality and use my GM card’s points. I test drove a Pursuit and Cobalt but did not wish to spend that kind of money on a GM first year model run - although I was very, very impressed with the fit and finish and ride quality of those cars.
Thanks,
Chris Hayne
Gereon Langlitz (Germany)
Hi Gary,
thanks for your response. Of course it’s not up to me telling the GM-management where to sell the various models, but I think an export of Opels from here to the USA could improve GM’s reputation all over Germany and Europe. Those guys, working at the Ruesselsheim assembly-lines for sure would appreciate it and could say: “Look, those people in Detroit do anything more to secure my job. If somebody is going to buy a luxury- or sports-car, then I’ll recommend a Cadillac or Corvette to everybody.”
Well, I understand certain difficulties, like the USA’s tough law, concerning emissions, or the Euro/Dollar exchange rate, what would make Opels more expensive in America. But on the other hand an Opel is clearly less expensive than a Volkswagen, BMW or Mercedes and provides high-end quality at the same time. Nobody, absolutely nobody, could tell me that a Toyota’s interior, fit-and-finish or whatever would be better than it’s provided by Opel. If you come over here soon, look at the all-new Corsa. It’s a hundred miles away from any so-called econobox.
Gereon Langlitz (Germany)
“Is it true that a Pontiac Vibe is a badge engineered Toyota Matrix?” - Noel Park
I recall to have read about it. At least the Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix share the same platform. But that’s nothing unusual. Several years go, these tiny Fiat Panda and Seat Marbella used to be twins, either.
noel park
Chris Hayne & Gereon Langlitz:
Thanks. I did not mean the question in a negative way.
The Matrix is extremely popular in Southern California, and appears to be a very nice sized and economical urban car. So, if the Vibe shares the same basic architecture, but carries a GM nameplate, that might be a good compromise for us. We cannot be seen in a Toyota!
Do you suppose it is built in the NUMMI plant in Fremont, CA? That would be a psychological plus for us as well!
Dan Moran
It must again be the beancounters that are responsible for GM’s decision to dump the minivan. Has GM decided that throwing in the towel somehow returns more profit to the company and shareholders? How will you spin that? Your continued focus on cost instead of profit will not help GM long-term. This is just another example of the mis-direction and mis-guided focus that has plagued GM for years.
A decision to kill the current generation of poorly designed and just plain ugly minivans should have been made years ago. Designers responsible for the abomination that they created should be forced to drive one for the next three years. However, to simply abandon the segment in hopes of attracting people to a CUV is ludicrous. There are other choices out there which even GM loyalists will be forced to make by taking yourself out of the game.
Just a plain DUMB decision.
Chris Hayne
Hi All,
I was just looking on the Web of some interior/exterior pics of the Opel Corsa. If the economics permit, this should certainly come to N.A. It looks just like a B class Benz, only better, and would make a great addition to the Saturn line.
Chris H.
Rich
I saw the Saturn Vue at the LA Auto Show this morning, and it failed to live up to the concept. It was nice, but not that distinguishable from other crossovers coming out now. I was disappointed that it was a four door. The two door concept was both stylish, personal, and trend setting. I really liked it for a husband-wife home. We later sat in the Volvo C30 and raved. The Vue was supposed to generate that same feeling. Also, the color of the four door on display was simply a bad choice. I love GM - we have three of them - but this was not a good intro.
DannyK
GM has a lot to learn and they know it, and all the smart people who work there know it too. The question I have is whether the organization itself has been fixed. Do the people who have been screaming loudly about GM’s deficiencies have a voice in the bureaucracy, or are their ideas and visions drowned out by corporate committees and GM groupthink?
GM is doing great under Herr Lutz, but have organizational changes been put in place to assure that there is a difference between all the GM brands going forward … You know there’s something wrong when home appliances are more attractive then the cars GM sells!
On a brighter note … I have been driving a Pontiac Grand Prix rental car all week and here are some of my comments ……..
Would I buy one? No. The styling is too gaudy, the gas mileage stinks and I’m not too keen on the “roar” of the OHV engine.
That said, I was pleasantly surprised by the overall driving experience. My last GM car I spent any appreciable time driving was a 1991 Buick owned by my grandfather and a 1999 DeVille Concours owned by my uncle (I was a driver on a long trip). I was surprised it was rated as poorly as it was by all the car review sites.
Japanese cars aren’t all that … I love my Acura, but at 88,000 miles its on its 3rd transmission and I got an interesting little class action suit notice showing Honda trying to weasel out of its obligations at 109,000. And the new Camry? Quality problems and again a misinformed style.
I love the tactile feel and the driving experience of my Acura TL … but they are definitely NOT invincible anymore.
Alastair Young
I’m an ex-pat Scot living in California on vacation with the wife and 4 kids back in Edinburgh for a week. We got a diesel Zafira on rental. I found this blog while trying to figure out if/when this great wee car is/will be available in the US.
I assume we have the new model. It does get 44mpg (40mpg US). It does carry 7 comfortably, though 6 with luggage for 6 is tight, but we did it, without strapping anything to the roof. I’m 6′2″ and there is plenty of headroom and legroom. It can park in Edinburgh cobbled backstreets almost as well as my old mini did.
At some point my 34mpg Geo Prizm commuter is going to die. I’d love to be able to replace it with a Zafira i.e. have a second car that will carry us all when the 19mpg Chrysler T&C is in the shop, and get twice the mileage to boot.
I’m not a car buff, I just buy one every few years and run them till they die. I’d like to buy one of these next. In California. Hello? GM?
NoVue
Hopefully the new Saturns have an improved transmission. We have a 2003 4 cyl Vue. The tranny first failed at 40K. Of course Saturn fixed it. I suppose we should have known better and dumped it, but at 80K the tranny dumped again. Saturn feels no responsibility for the replacement tranny that they installed 40K ago. Though Saturn is more reluctant to admit it, apparently it is well known in the independent repair community that this particular transmission was a dud. Any takers for a nice Saturn with no tranny?