Sky to be Saturns First Roadster

New Sky Points Saturn Division in New Styling Direction

Did you think Saturns first sporty car since its recently introduced Red Line series would be based on the exciting Curve concept which debuted at last years North American International Auto Show in Detroit? All who thought so have now been set straight, with Saturns future looking to blue sky in more ways than one.

The General Motors division has chosen the name Sky to represent its new roadster model, pulled from the Sky Concept that debuted the year prior. Unlike the concept, which sported a unique "convertible" two-seat, four-seat configuration, the production Sky will just offer two seats. Actually, GM states there is no design link to the production and concept Sky models.

It will also usher in a completely new styling direction for the brand, one that seems influenced heavily by GMs European division Opel in its front grille and headlight design. Interestingly, Opel recently announced the introduction of a future compact convertible model that will sport an electro-hydraulically operated, retractable steel roof. GM says little about the new Saturn Skys convertible top operation, but if it shares architecture with Opels new roadster, which may make sense, a retractable hardtop could be on the way.

GM says the new Saturn will nevertheless influence the brands styling direction for future products, a lineup which will double over the next 24 months.

"The new design of Saturn vehicles are heavily influenced by global design trends and conveys a sense of technical harmony," commented Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Design. "Taut, controlled lines combine with fluid surfaces to create a dynamic feel."

The new Sky will also feature rear-wheel drive, in true sports car character. The rear-drive layout will be another first for Saturn, but essential in making it competitive with Mazdas Miata, the roadster sales leader. General Motors Pontiac division will introduce its production-trim Solstice roadster at the Detroit show as well, which also rides on GMs Kappa rear-drive chassis architecture the Sky shares.

Analysts say GMs decision to bring two new roadsters to life in a market that has been all but friendly to sports cars is a bold and potentially risky move. Interest in the sporty segment is down, coupes included, with few models, excepting Fords new Mustang, bucking this flat sales trend.

No matter how well the two roadsters perform on the sales charts, however, the Solstice and Sky will fulfill their first duty of providing an image enhancing halo over the brands each represents, attracting new buyers into their respective dealer showrooms and improving morale among sales staff.