2000 Saturn LS Review (continued)
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Walkaround

Though there are many platforms in the General Motors pipeline, Saturn made a conscious decision to build its new large car on the same structure used by the Opel Vectra. (Opel, a highly respected German automaker, is a GM subsidiary.) Major changes were made to the structure. This new Saturn sedan retains its German heritage, but is better suited for North American roads and the way we drive here. This platform appears to have been an excellent choice because the body structure is quite rigid.

Over this impressive structure are Saturn's trademark composite (plastic) body panels. Saturn continues to use these innovative composite panels because its customers have found that they resist rust and minor dents and dings. It also offers some important benefits during the manufacturing process. Unlike Saturn's smaller S-series of compact sedans and coupes, the L-series cars use steel for the rear fenders and trunk lid. Saturn engineers felt that a large car dictates a large cargo area and that this area must have the added rigidity facilitated by steel.

Even though this new Saturn is loosely based on the Vectra, body designers were adamant that the new car retain its ties with the Saturn family. There is no mistaking the LS with anything but a Saturn. The car's rackish front hood and fender line, tied to the steep slope of the windshield, the swooping line of the rear doors combined to the high rear deck signals your visual sensors that you indeed are gazing upon a Saturn.

Interior Features

Sliding behind the steering wheel reveals another reason Saturn has enjoyed such success. The interior isn't full of gaudy, non-essential doodads. It is basic and practical, yet offers a splash of elegance most Saturn owners will welcome.

Every switch, gauge and control is exactly where you would expect it to be and all controls are within easy reach. One of our pet peeves of previous Saturn vehicles was the vagueness with which the switches operated. Not so with the L-series: Every switch and knob operates smoothly.

The center pod design of the LS becomes a Saturn theme. The sound system is located above the heating, ventilation and air conditioning controls. Steering wheel spokes are set lower at each side, which allows for easy use of the correct 3 and 9 o'clock hand positions.

Driver and front passenger air bags are standard equipment; side air bags are not available. A stronger, more substantial body cage was designed with stronger B-pillars and side-impact bracing in the doors. Energy-absorbing interior door panels help reduce impact force. Building a more substantial body cage was imperative to aid in lessening the chance of crash injuries and damage.

The Saturn LS provides plenty of rear-seat legroom. And, while headroom is adequate for people who are just a shade over 6 feet tall, it would be wise to leave the Stetson at home.