Volkswagen GTI Review

Volkswagen GTI

2008 Volkswagen GTI 2 Door Hatchback

The Volkswagen GTI is one of the best-known budget performance cars sold in America. For more than 20 years, Volkswagen has been taking its entry-level, economy car-based two-door hatchback model and turning it into a GTI by adding a more powerful engine and brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, and special interior and exterior trim pieces. The result is a practical car that's also fun to drive and desirable.

The original Volkswagen Rabbit GTI stormed onto American shores for 1983 and has been frequently credited for creating the niche-oriented "hot hatchback" market segment. Though many of the original GTI's specs don't seem particularly great by modern standards (its 1.8-liter engine made just 90 horsepower, for instance), it was a lightweight and agile revelation for many consumers used to bulky and underperforming American sport coupes.

Since then, there have been four more generations of Golf- or Rabbit-based VW GTIs, and some have been more highly regarded than others. The latest model is the most powerful GTI yet and could be considered a minor return to glory for the nameplate. Shoppers interested in a used GTI will likely want to do some research in order to determine which model year is best suited for them.

The latest Volkswagen GTI was introduced midway through the 2006 model year. The platform on which it's based is representative of the fifth-generation Golf, which has been renamed the Rabbit for the U.S. market. Highlighted improvements for this generation include a stiffer body structure, a fully independent suspension and new features such as xenon headlights and an available navigation system. The GTI is available only as a two-door hatchback in one trim level.

VW makes many modifications to the GTI to improve its performance and distinctiveness compared to other Golf models. For power, it has a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine called the 2.0T that's capable of 200 hp. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and sends power to the front wheels. A sequentially shifting six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) transmission is optional.

In Volkswagen GTI reviews, this hatchback has earned favorable commentary for its powerful and flexible engine, comfortable seating, upscale interior design and everyday versatility. Downsides include handling abilities that aren't quite as sharp as some competitors' and a price that elevates quickly when options are added.

Consumers interested in earlier GTI models will have plenty of choices. On used-car lots, the fourth-generation GTI, which was produced for the 1999-2006 model years, will be the most frequent. Buyers should be aware that VW frequently overlaps its generational models for the GTI -- for example, both the fourth- and fifth-gen GTIs were sold for the 2006 model year.

The fourth-generation VW GTI debuted in two trim levels -- GLS and GLX. The GLS has a 115-hp 2.0-liter engine and could be had with either a manual or automatic transmission. The GLX came with a 174-hp, 2.8-liter six-cylinder "VR6" and a manual transmission only. The following year, VW replaced the 2.0-liter engine in the GLS with a much more sporting 1.8-liter engine called the 1.8T. Turbocharged, this one produced 150 hp.

In general, this GTI was less sporting than other competing models of its time. This was especially true in terms of reflexes and handling, as the car had a relatively unsophisticated suspension and a somewhat hefty curb weight. It did counter with a high-quality interior and enhanced versatility, however.

For shoppers, GTIs for model years 2002 and newer would be preferable as they had more standard equipment and more power (180 hp for the 1.8T and 200 hp for the VR6). VW also offered a few special models for this generation -- the 2002 GTI 337, the similar 20th-anniversary 2003 GTI, and the rare GTI R32 that had all-wheel-drive and a 240-hp 3.2-liter V6.

The third-gen Volkswagen GTI was available from 1994-'99. For the most part, this model is not as desirable as other generations due to its selection of engines. Though again a two-door hatchback based on the Golf, it debuted with the uninspiring 2.0-liter engine only. Only in 1995 did the VR6 engine (172 hp) finally enter production alongside the 2.0-liter.

The early 1990s GTI was part of the car's second generation. Cars from this period had two versions of a 2.0-liter engine -- the more desirable was a 16-valve version producing 131 hp. Though this car did not quite produce as much excitement as the original Rabbit GTI, it outperformed it in many ways and could be considered the last of the nimble GTIs before VW started focusing more on comfort and features.

Volkswagen R32 Review

Volkswagen R32

2008 Volkswagen R32 Hatchback

Introduction
What would you get if an early '80s Audi Quattro coupe and the current VW GTI found themselves on a deserted island with an endless loop of Barry White's Greatest Hits playing? Well, glossing over that whole icky age-difference part, you'd likely end up with a spawn that resembles the 2008 Volkswagen R32.

That first Audi Quattro coupe packed a powerful turbocharged five-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive, offering enthusiasts who had to deal with snow and slush a performance car they could drive all year round. Carrying that spirit on today, the Volkswagen R32 is similar to today's GTI but offers two things that hot hatch doesn't -- a ripping V6 engine and all-wheel drive.

The latest model is a follow-up on the limited-production, Golf-based R32 that VW sold in the United States a few years ago. Of course, with the R32 being a compact sporty car with a muscular engine and all-wheel traction, everybody will want to compare it to the forthcoming redesigned Subaru WRX STI and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. That's not exactly apples to apples, however, as the R32 is more a fast, comfortable GT than a rip-roaring, apex-attacking super compact.

Yes, the Evo will leave the R32 behind on a tight twisty road and will outgun it in a stoplight sprint. But the Vee-Dub is still plenty quick enough (zero to 60 in 6.5 seconds, says Volkswagen), handles better than most drivers will ever need and would make a much better daily driver and road trip companion thanks to its smoother, quieter ride. The R32 is also more mature, as this performance car does without the gaping air intakes and wing-and-spoiler bonanza. It also has a nicer interior that gives off a neatly tailored European vibe typical of the brand.

Priced at more than $30,000, the 2008 Volkswagen R32 occupies a niche in the hot-hatch segment. It's more expensive than natural competitors and lacks the performance one can get from the Evo or Ford Mustang GT. But this super-sporty Vee-Dub's appeal lies outside the norm. With only 5,000 bound for American shores, the R32 is rare and holds obvious appeal to VW fans, making it a worthy über-GTI. Heck, maybe even the dearly departed Barry White would want to own one.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2008 Volkswagen R32 comes as a two-door hatchback in a single, fully loaded trim level. Highlights of the standard features list include a unique aluminum grille, xenon headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, center-mounted dual exhaust, power sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front sport seats with power lumbar support, full power accessories, dual-zone automatic climate control, premium sound system with six-CD changer and satellite radio.

There is but a pair of options: all-season tires in place of the standard performance rubber and a navigation system. Opting for the latter adds an iPod adapter to the sound system but takes away the CD changer.
Powertrains and Performance
A 3.2-liter V6 (hence the "32" in the car's name) with 250 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque powers the R32. It's paired with a dual-clutch sequential automanual gearbox ("DSG") that sends the power to all four wheels via Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. The V6 provides a broad power spread and a hearty exhaust note, while the DSG snaps off shifts as soon as you flick the wheel-mounted paddles. Left to shift on its own, it works just fine, but selecting the "Sport" setting results in it downshifting (often with a "clunk") when it's really not needed.

Performance estimates put the 0-60-mph sprint at an estimated 6.5 seconds, which is respectable considering the R32's rather portly (3,500-pound) mass. Passing maneuvers and high-speed cruising are effortless and relatively hushed, a result of the car's autobahn pedigree. Fuel economy is estimated at 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes, stability control, front side airbags and side-curtain airbags are all standard. Though no crash tests have been done on the R32, those done by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety on the Volkswagen Rabbit (on which the R32 is based) yielded strong scores. In that agency's frontal offset and side impact testing, the Rabbit scored "Good" (the highest possible) for both tests.

Interior Design and Special Features
The R32's sport seats, borrowed from the GTI, grip well without forcing you to climb into them. Scrutinize the well-appointed cabin and it's obvious that VW is related to Audi, given the tight fit and finish, and high materials quality. Burnished metallic accents spice up the cockpit and a flat-bottom steering wheel furthers the sporty feel. Controls and displays are easy to see and use. A roomy rear seat offers decent room for a pair of adults and when flipped down, opens up a massive 43 cubic feet of cargo space.

Driving Impressions
When pressed on a serpentine road, the 2008 Volkswagen R32 is capable, but not as nimble as more sharply focused sport compact cars. With the grip of all-wheel drive and communicative steering that's not calibrated to go-kart spec quickness, the R32 is fairly forgiving when pushed hard, tending toward understeer that diminishes as speed is scrubbed off.

The R32 feels more comfortable when the hairpins turn into sweeping bends. It rolls a little, settles in midcorner and sticks without needing any steering adjustment. Road feel is excellent for an electrically assisted steering system, and the thick rim of the steering wheel provides a satisfying connection between the driver's hands and the hardware.

Thanks to its supple suspension, the R32 feels as at home while cruising on straight roads as it does blasting through canyons. That effortless freeway running character, along with its roomy, quiet cabin and supportive seats make this performance car a great choice for road trippers.

Tesla Roadster

The first performance electric car manufactured by Tesla Motors, the high-performance, zero-emissions Tesla Roadster, was unveiled before a throng of well-wishers, car buffs, and potential customers Wednesday evening during Tesla’s “Signature One Hundred” event at Barker Hangar.

More than 350 invited guests spent the evening learning about the new sports car, speaking with Tesla Motors executives, and going for rides along the tarmac at the Santa Monica Airport, adjacent to the event. Many signed up to be among the first to take delivery of the Tesla Roadster, becoming Signature One Hundred Members.

Celebrities in attendance included actor Ed Begley Jr., producer Richard Donner, businessman Michael Eisner, PayPal founder (and Tesla Motors Chairman) Elon Musk, Participant Productions’ Founder and CEO Jeff Skoll, also of eBay fame, and producer and car collector Joel Silver. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger stopped by prior to the evening’s activities to learn more about Tesla Motors and the Roadster.

“We’re thrilled to have the support of top people from so many different industries,” said Martin Eberhard, CEO of Tesla Motors. “High-tech, CleanTech, entertainment, automotive, you name it. It’s gratifying to have others realize the significance or what Tesla Motors is doing.”

The electric-powered Tesla Roadster boasts a top speed of more than 130 mph and a range of 250 miles on a single charge, a combination heretofore unseen in a mass-produced electric vehicle. Its extended range is due to its state-of-the-art lithium-ion Energy Storage System. The Tesla Roadster is capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in about four seconds.

“The Tesla Roadster delivers sports car performance without using any gasoline,” said Eberhard. “This is what we hoped to achieve when we started the company three years ago, to build a car with zero emissions that people would love to drive.”

Using a unique two-speed manual transmission, the Tesla Roadster’s power comes from a 3-phase, 4-pole AC induction motor coupled with the Power Electronics Module (PEM) which provides multiple functionality of inverting direct current to 3-phase alternating current, the charging system, and the regenerative braking system.

The Roadster’s Energy Storage System (ESS) provides power to the entire vehicle, including the motor. Its durable, tamper-resistant enclosure includes: 6,831 lithium-ion cells; a network of microprocessors for maintaining charge balance and temperature among the batteries; a cooling system; and an independent safety system designed to disconnect power outside the enclosure under a variety of detectable safety situations.

The Tesla Roadster comes complete with its Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE), a home-based charging system. An optional mobile charging kit, for re-charging while away from the EVSE, also features this automatic disconnect system. Charging the Tesla Roadster takes approximately 3.5 hours.

The Tesla Roadster is capable of driving up to 250 miles (EPA Highway) on a single charge, a range roughly triple that of previous mass-produced electric vehicles, like General Motors’ EV1.

“It didn’t make sense to sell a car that couldn’t go 90 miles on a charge. You’d spend more time charging the old EVs than driving them,” said Eberhard. “Lithium-ion technology, which has been proven in many different applications, has allowed us to achieve exactly what we thought it would in terms of power, range and efficiency.”

The body design of the Tesla Roadster, which included a collaborative effort by the company’s employees, has been headed by Barney Hatt, Principal Designer at the Lotus Design Studio in England. The result is a sleek, stylish sports car that will appeal to enthusiasts and environmentalists the world over.

Tesla designers and engineers have gone to great lengths to ensure that not only is the Tesla Roadster safe to drive, but also when charging the performance electric car, at home or on the road. Their goal is to not only meet, but to surpass the rigorous standards of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, or FMVSS, as implemented by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Tesla co-founders Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning, who serves as Vice President, Engineering, have brought together a team of automotive industry veterans plus Silicon Valley electronics and Internet engineers to bring the Tesla Roadster to life.

Research and Development for Tesla Motors is based at the Corporate Headquarters in San Carlos, Calif. Engines are manufactured at Tesla’s facility in Taiwan, and assembly takes place at Tesla’s plant in England.

Subaru Impreza Review

Subaru Impreza

2008 Subaru Impreza 2.5i Sedan

In the small car segment, the Subaru Impreza is often overshadowed by more popular nameplates. There are two primary reasons behind this: the Impreza's higher-than-average pricing and a lack of brand awareness regarding Subaru vehicles. But for the right kind of buyer, especially one seeking driving excitement, the Subaru Impreza can be an excellent choice among compact cars.

The Impreza's performance edge comes from its distinctive powertrain, as this model has always been available with all-wheel drive. It provides extra traction in slippery conditions and, on higher-horsepower models, works in combination with the Impreza's well-sorted chassis to provide excellent handling. For power, the Impreza has always been equipped with its unusual horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine.

The Impreza's most recent, third-generation model is larger and more refined than its predecessors. It should appeal to a wider audience, but it's not as fun to drive as the previous model. As a used vehicle, the second-generation Impreza is an excellent choice; the turbocharged Subaru Impreza WRX, in particular, provides exceptional bang for the buck. Earlier Imprezas are rather unremarkable, although Subaru made enough improvements during that first generation's run that the latter-year cars are a decent choice for a small car.

Current Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza has been fully redesigned for the 2008 model year. It's offered as a sedan or four-door hatchback. The latter essentially replaces the former wagon and has more of a European flavor to its design. But overall, the styling for this Impreza is not as dramatic as on past generations.

There are two basic trim levels: 2.5i and WRX. The 2.5i models have a horizontally opposed 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It's rated at 170 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. Impreza WRX models receive a turbocharged version of that engine; it produces 224 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque. Both engines send their power to all four wheels through either a five-speed manual transmission or four-speed automatic with manual shift control.

Subaru doesn't equip base 2.5i levels with much equipment; most examples on dealer lots will be fitted with desirable optional equipment. The WRX comes with most of the Impreza's options as standard and has specialized wheels, tires and suspension tuning for increased handling ability. There's also an Impreza Outback Sport; offered as a hatchback only, it has a slightly raised suspension for better ground clearance and a two-tone exterior paint scheme.

In reviews, we've found that this Subaru Impreza provides enjoyable levels of performance. Thanks to all-wheel drive, there's plenty of traction, particularly in wet-weather conditions. Though acceleration of the 2.5i model is adequate, most people will be happier with the WRX. Lacking, however, is the fun-to-drive spirit of earlier Imprezas. The suspension tuning is softer and the car is less eager to corner aggressively. As such, competing performance models might be a better choice for driving enthusiasts.

Past Subaru Imprezas

The previous Subaru Impreza was sold from 2002-'07. It was available as a five-passenger sedan or a wagon. Mechanically, the two body styles were similar. At its debut, this Impreza was sold in the following trim levels: 2.5 RS sedan, WRX sedan and wagon, 2.5 TS Sport Wagon and Outback Sport wagon.

Powering non-WRX models was a 2.5-liter engine making 165 hp. The WRX had a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine making 227 hp. Transmission choices included a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. Imprezas of this period were reasonably well equipped, with the most features and performance-oriented hardware coming on the WRX.

Though all years of this Impreza are highly regarded, there are some changes to be aware of. Models made for 2004 and later benefited from a variety of feature updates including revised front-end styling, updated suspension components for a better ride quality and more convenience features. In 2006, Subaru updated the Impreza's front styling again and introduced updated engines. The renamed 2.5i trim levels came with 173 hp, while the WRX sedan and wagon gained a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 230 hp.

From 2004-'07, Subaru also sold the ultra-high-performance Impreza STi. This special variant of the sedan came with a 300-hp version of the 2.5-liter turbo engine, a six-speed manual transmission, an even stiffer suspension and powerful Brembo brakes. It also had exclusive features like a driver-adjustable center differential and a water sprayer for the intercooler.

At the time, we found the second-generation Subaru Impreza to be one of the best performance cars available for the money. Though lacking the most up-to-date features and suffering from an increasingly dated interior design, this generation had a fun-to-drive personality that kept it competitive with more modern performance hatchbacks and sedans. The STI, meanwhile, was capable of out-accelerating and out-handling many dedicated sport coupes of the time.

Considering the glorious halo associated with this second generation, it might be somewhat surprising to learn that the Subaru Impreza had a rather meek American debut in 1993. The first-generation model was available as a sedan or wagon and came equipped with a 1.8-liter flat-4 good for just 110 hp. All-wheel drive was optional, not standard. There were three trim levels: base, L and LS. The LS (later renamed LX) came with more equipment, including a standard four-speed automatic transmission and antilock brakes.

Subaru made its first major changes to this generation in 1995. Additions included a two-door coupe model, the Outback wagon and a larger 135-hp 2.2-liter engine option. The larger engine was available only with a four-speed automatic, however. This situation was rectified in '96 when the five-speed manual became available for the 2.2-liter. That year Subaru also made the larger engine standard on all trims, except the low-budget Brighton coupe.

The first-generation Subaru Impreza continued to improve in its later years. In 1997, Subaru brought out an improved Outback model, increased the power output of the 2.2-liter, made AWD standard and dropped the LX trim. A year later, the desirable Impreza 2.5 RS debuted. Though not as powerful as the turbocharged WRX versions that Subaru was selling in other parts of the world, the coupe-only 2.5 RS came with a 165-hp 2.5-liter engine, a sport-tuned suspension, a non-functional hood scoop and 16-inch wheels. It also tied in nicely to the Impreza's success in the World Rally Championship during this time. No more significant changes were made to the Impreza, though a 2.5 RS sedan did arrive for 2000.

Subaru Legacy Review

Subaru Legacy

2008 Subaru Legacy 3.0R Sedan Shown

Introduced almost two decades ago, the Subaru Legacy is the company's longest-running nameplate in the U.S. Thanks to its all-wheel drive, the Legacy is often selected as a winter-beating alternative in the midsize sedan or wagon segment. It's also been highly regarded by Edmunds.com editors and has won two Edmunds.com Editors' Most WantedSM awards.

There have been four generations of the Subaru Legacy. For the current model, Subaru revamped the vehicle and its image by adding power and moving it more upscale with a slicker profile and premium standard features. The most significant change was the addition of the WRX STI's turbocharged engine, which slots the powerful Legacy GT into a category that's typically occupied by European cars.

Current Subaru Legacy

With the current model, the Subaru Legacy has really come into its own, claiming the role of Subaru's premium sedan. True, it's not a groundbreaking design, and it even bears some of the quirks that have come to characterize Subaru, such as a chunky hood scoop. But the Legacy does possess a more metropolitan character than in generations past. The interior materials are excellent, and style, fit and finish are competitive with more expensive European marques.

The Subaru Legacy comes in two body styles — sedan and wagon — which share four trim levels: 2.5i, Limited, Special Edition and GT Limited. Both body styles are quite functional with 60/40-split folding rear seats and plenty of storage compartments. However, the rear seats are on the tight side compared to more spacious midsize rivals.

Powering the 2.5i, Limited and Special Edition trim levels is a 175-horsepower 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. The sportier GT Limited trim gets an exciting turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder good for 243 hp. The Legacy sedan also comes in a high-performance trim, called the 2.5 GT Limited spec.B. It adds a firmer suspension, 18-inch wheels and a six-speed manual transmission. As with all Subaru vehicles, AWD is standard across all models.

In road tests, our editors found the Subaru Legacy to be both sporty and comfortable -- a challenging combination for manufacturers to master. The steering is perfectly weighted. The ride is quiet. The 2.5-liter engine provides adequate power, but the Legacy GT (and its turbocharged engine) is truly a fun car to drive hard. The one glaring bit of criticism has been the GT Limited's automatic transmission, which seems to be ill-suited for the vehicle's turbocharged engine.

Past Subaru Legacy Models

The previous, third-generation Subaru Legacy was more of a rugged all-weather performer than the current model. Sold from 2000-'04, it launched with three primary trim levels: base L, sporty GT and premium GT Limited. A Brighton value trim was also included in the 2000 lineup for the wagon, but was removed the following year.

Although it was a bit lacking in refinement, the previous Legacy was well stocked with standard features, including AWD. All trims came with a smooth and responsive 165-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual transmission was standard and a four-speed automatic was optional. In 2003, Subaru moved the L trim upscale and added the L Special Edition trim, which was renamed the 35th Anniversary Edition a year later.

Value-minded buyers looking for an all-weather vehicle might take a look at the second-generation Legacy. Sold from 1995-'99, it was best known for spawning the Outback wagon, a rugged SUV alternative that came with standard AWD. The model's one weak link was its anemic 135-hp 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine, which many people felt was a downgrade from the 160-hp turbocharged 2.2-liter four-cylinder that was available in the first generation's Sport Turbo trim (sold from 1991-'94).

Scion tC Review

Scion tC

2008 Scion tC Hatchback

Few cars in the under-$20,000 segment promise as much style and fun as the Scion tC. This compact sport coupe has a long list of standard equipment and a low price that undercuts the competition by thousands. And as part of Scion's mission to appeal to younger buyers, the tC can also be customized to a considerable degree with additional options. Whether you like it stock or modified, the Scion tC is a worthy choice for an affordable coupe.

The tC debuted for the 2005 model year as the latest addition to the Scion brand. Those unfamiliar with Scion's short history might be surprised to learn that it was created by Toyota as a means of attracting more youthful buyers. This means that one can assume with fair confidence that the parent company's reputation for building reliable and durable cars also applies to the tC.

Although the Scion tC is classified as a compact car, its relatively long wheelbase provides more than ample legroom, especially for those riding in the back. Long doors and sliding seats on both sides make entry and exit relatively easy, and rear passengers will also enjoy the split seat backs that can individually recline up to 45 degrees. The tC's cabin has an upscale look and feel thanks to high-quality materials and metallic-look trim pieces. An elegant "waterfall"-style center stack flows into the center console.

The tC's hatchback design allows extra flexibility when it comes time for carrying cargo. By folding down the rear seats, the tC has nearly as much cargo volume as a compact SUV. The tC's passenger-side front seat also folds down flat, which provides the opportunity to load up long items such as snowboards or surfboards.

Like other Scion models, the tC sport coupe comes in one trim level and is chock-full of unexpected features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, one-touch power windows, a large sunroof, cruise control, air conditioning, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, keyless entry, mirror-mounted turn signal lights and a satellite radio-ready Pioneer sound system with CD player and mini-jack port. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes are also standard.

A considerable number of optional features and accessories (from the factory or dealer-installed) are also available on the Scion coupe. Highlights include interior and exterior styling mods, a front-seat side and head curtain airbag package, 18-inch wheels, premium audio system upgrades and Toyota Racing Development (TRD) performance parts. Power for this front-drive sport coupe comes from a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine. It's capable of 160 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard, with a four-speed automatic available as an option.

In Scion tC reviews, our editors have commented that the car is enjoyable to drive. Although its acceleration figures aren't stunning, the tC is quick enough for typical urban use. The sport-tuned independent suspension and wide tires also make the compact car fun to pilot on twisty roads. In posted consumer commentary, owners frequently praise the car's long list of standard features, sunroof and value for the money. Complaints are few but typically mention the car's large blind spots, easily scratched or chipped exterior paint and the engine's high rpm at cruising speed.

Saturn Sky Review

Saturn Sky

2008 Saturn Sky Convertible

The new Saturn Sky brings some welcome warmth and interest to the Saturn brand after years of lackluster products. The Sky, and its more spirited Sky Red Line sibling, are the division's first convertibles. As exciting additions, they're sure to turn lots of heads and rev up Saturn's model lineup.

A two-seat rear-drive roadster with a manually operated convertible top, the Saturn Sky rides on a corporate GM platform using advanced, stiff hydroformed longitudinal rails inspired by the Chevrolet Corvette. This helps make the Sky a fun roadster to drive -- even the base model has big 18-inch tires and wheels for a high level of grip, and the 177-horsepower 2.4-liter engine offers enough oomph at speed to tickle your senses. The turbocharged Sky Red Line, with its 260-horsepower engine and stiffer suspension tuning, is a screaming performance value -- Saturn claims zero to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds.

While the Saturn Sky does offer a lot of bang for the buck, it unfortunately comes with a lack of refinement as well. In reviews, we've found that the car's throttle response can be slow off the mark, and its steering can be a bit numb at times. Also be advised that the trunk is really more of a "trunkette" -- especially with the top down -- and the interior is a somewhat tight tangle of awkward ergonomics for larger drivers that also lacks sufficient storage space.

Some other competitors boast a higher level of quality and a more interactive driving experience for a higher price, but the Saturn Sky is certainly a head-turner and one of the most exciting roadsters in a long time -- no doubt pleasing dedicated Saturn fans and others seeking an expressive, lightweight convertible with sharp styling and everyday comfort for a relatively low price.

The Saturn Sky is a compact two-seat convertible with two trim levels: base and Red Line. Standard equipment includes the expected powered accessories, air-conditioning, a manual cloth top, 18-inch wheels and a six-speaker CD audio system. An MP3/satellite radio upgrade is available, as is a Premium Trim package with leather trim, steering wheel audio controls and flashy metallic sill plates and pedals. The hot-rod Red Line model is similarly equipped but also has unique interior and exterior accents, a sport-tuned suspension with performance tires, and a limited-slip rear differential and stability control for max traction.

The standard Saturn Sky roadster comes with a modest 2.4-liter, inline four-cylinder Ecotec engine developing 177 hp and 166 pound-feet of torque; the Sky Red Line features a torque-rich 2.0-liter version of the power plant with a turbocharger, direct injection, variable valve timing and 260 horsepower. Both transmit their power through a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic to the delight of commuters.

Inside, a wraparound dash and high door sills surround the driver. The transmission tunnel is unusually wide, which can put the squeeze on super-sized occupants. When it comes time to drop the top, we've found the Sky's operation a bit fussy. Lowering it requires the driver to turn a windshield latch, pop the rear deck lid with a button inside the glovebox, then get out of the car and manually fold the top down into its well before securing the rear deck lid. Although not difficult, it can be tedious.

Most drivers will find the Sky's substantial lateral grip and quick steering enjoyable enough to make it a fun and engaging choice. Ride quality is quite acceptable for normal daily use, and the Saturn Sky is among the best highway cruisers in its class. The base 2.4-liter engine is only adequate in terms of acceleration and refinement, but thankfully the Red Line is a far more serious performance machine. Our editors note that it's impressively quick in a straight line, but more serious drivers may find the somewhat numb steering and imprecise throttle prevents them from feeling truly connected when driving hard on curving, twisty roads.

Overall, the drop-top Sky is still generally fun to drive and easy to live with. And with an alluring, eye-catching shape and available high-performance Red Line variant, the Saturn Sky provides a lot of bang for the buck for new compact convertible shoppers.