Overview & Reviews

Before Saturn bit the dust as a result of the 2009 GM bankruptcy fiasco, the Saturn Sky brought some welcome warmth and interest to the brand following years of lackluster products. A two-seat rear-drive roadster with a manually operated convertible top, the Sky rode on a platform shared with the Pontiac Solstice.

The Saturn Sky offered a respectable amount of bang for the buck, and its exterior styling turned heads almost as reliably as an exotic's. It also generated some serious speed in turbocharged form. Unfortunately, the Sky lacked refinement, and its reputation for reliability was also suspect. We would not recommend the Sky as a used-car purchase.

Most Recent Saturn Sky

The Saturn Sky was a compact two-seat convertible produced from 2007-'09. It was available in two trim levels: base and Red Line. Standard equipment included the expected powered accessories, air-conditioning, a manual cloth top, 18-inch wheels, stability control and a limited-slip differential (as of 2008), and a six-speaker CD audio system ('08 saw the addition of satellite radio). The hot-rod Red Line model was similarly equipped but boasted unique interior and exterior accents, Bluetooth and a sport-tuned suspension with performance tires to go along with a high-output turbocharged engine.

The standard Saturn Sky roadster came with a modest 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine developing 177 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. The Sky Red Line featured a 2.0-liter four that cranked out 260 hp with the aid of a turbocharger, direct injection and variable valve timing. Both transmitted their power through a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic.

Inside, the Sky's wraparound dash and high door sills surrounded the driver. The transmission tunnel was unusually wide, which could put the squeeze on oversized occupants. When it came time to drop the top, we found its operation remarkably fussy by modern standards. Lowering it required 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.

In reviews, we found the Sky's driving dynamics to be subpar. Ride quality was acceptable for normal daily use, but the base 2.4-liter engine was only adequate in terms of acceleration and refinement, and the manual transmission was sourced from the Chevy Colorado pickup truck (and felt the part). The Red Line could really scoot with its turbocharged four, but it sounded strained at full throttle. Moreover, the Sky was a rather blunt instrument when driven hard on twisty roads. The steering lacked feel, and the overall experience was less enjoyable than what's provided by the Mazda Miata.

User Reviews:

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  Yellow & Not A Lemon - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By Yellow - February 20 - 1:56 pm

  I actually brought my ION in for an oil change & saw the redline. I called my wife told her the hood opens up backwards. We test drove it on her birthday for 2 minutes & all she said was I want a yellow one. 3 months waiting was worth it. I have now had this car a year & after reading complaints I have come to the conclusion that 2 seat roadsters are not for everyone. If you want an eye turner that is the biggest bang for the buck with both looks & performance to match, this is it. If not buy a sedan. Saturn has my attention.

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  Awesome - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By Vinny - January 4 - 11:50 pm

  I love the performance, handling and total driving experience. The better then expected fuel economy was a surprise. The super tight suspension and supreme handling keeps all four wheels firmly on the road. Its low end torque allows the car to jump off the line.

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  A Future Classic - 2009 Saturn Sky
  By Roadster 2.4 - December 22 - 9:56 am

  The Roadster is a fantastic car. I beleive that this car was never build as a Sports Car it was built to be Sporty and it does it extremely well. I can honestly say that driving the Roadster brings a smile to my face and makes me feel good. I do not need a car that does a million miles an hour, I like a car that not only is well built and reliable but also looks good (I admit it) the Roadster fits the bill and more. If you can find one buy it! if you have one, keep it!

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  Good looking car or beautiful - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By Larry - November 7 - 11:56 pm

  I got delivery of a Sky in late June. I think it is a good looking car. I have had several who wanted to know if I would sell it. Recently at Costco getting gas someone asked if they could sit in it as he was fairly tall and his girlfriend really wants one. I told him that it was a good looking car, "it is beautiful and the best looking car I have ever seen." It has good performance and is quite tight with the the width of the tires and the additional steering capabilities. You would never realize a 4 cylinder engine could provide so much power. I am going to sell my car as I think I can make $10,000 over what I paid, and I want to get a turbo.

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  SKYs the Limit - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By SKY ONE - October 24 - 2:33 am

  The Sky has been a blast to drive, It is the Red-Line Version, Black Exterior and the Red leather inside. Alot of lookers, it will handle its own on the street or road course. With the standard, you can push it up to speeds as quickly as you can shift. The feel is truly that of an expensive roadster, it handles tight and pick up is good.

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  Exceeded expectations - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By berls - September 24 - 1:53 am

  Nice room for the driver and passenger. Little storage in the trunk with the top down. Rides like a midsize touring suspension and sits down on the curves at 40-60 mph. Nice pickup with the 2.4L. Looks great- a real headturner!

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  High on the Sky - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By Laura in the Sky - September 5 - 7:16 am

  The Sky is just about perfect. OK, so if you go away for the weekend, you have to wear your clothes as the trunk is small. But comfort, grip of the road, mileage, and styling --it is not just like the Solstice at all! I have people stop me on the road, everywhere, to comment on the sleek lines. The ride is smooth and handling is fantastic with the wider wheel base! I love it!

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  Still Getting to Know My Sky - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By ben - August 24 - 12:56 am

  Only have 800 mile on the Sky so far. Its a real head turner. Lots of folks keep asking what it is. Takes turns real well at fast speeds and city driving economy is 23-24 mpg. Will be taking it on a 6 hour trip which should be a real test of creature comforts.

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  Its Euphoric / Can The SKY Save GM? - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By Angelqute1 - July 25 - 10:26 pm

  This car is so many things, its almost hard to put into words. I have had this car for 3,000 miles now & I think Ive driven a total of 30 with the top up. Its got the "WOW" factor. It stands out. People think its an Aston Martin, a Corvette, Viper, but never a Saturn!?! Its almost comical that the car is so beautiful because it takes peoples breath away. When you drive it, you feel like a million bucks. When youre not driving it, you wish you were, but then you dont want to put a lot of miles on it. But then you want to pull up to the mediocre looking Miata, or the not so special looking Honda S2000 and smile. Its in a league of its own. It rides great and has looks that kill.

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  Skyhigh - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By skyed - July 9 - 5:03 am

  The Sky is an attention grabber. Im constantly stopped by onlookers and this car turns heads. Fun to drive and very comfortable. Only negative that I have is lack of compartments. No storage in the door panels. No place to put your sun glasses. Saturn has hit a home run with this automobile.