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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What a Blast! - 2008 Saturn Sky
By Ross - April 7 - 12:30 amThis car is just so much fun to drive! If youre looking for a 2 seater that will bring a smile to your face every time you get in it (or just look at it), this is the car youre looking for!
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True enjoyment! - 2008 Saturn Sky
By Darksky - March 8 - 11:46 pmI fell in love with the looks the minute I saw my first one! Its one of the best looking cars on the road and for the money a lot of car and a great buy. I dont understand the reviewers complaints about the manual top. Its simple, fast and reliable to operate. Its so small I cant see the need for motors and a drive system. The performance, handling and braking are exceptional. The car is a constant hit with everyone you meet. I love the XM radio and all the small speakers. Even with the top down at 80 sounds are still clear and strong. Its fun to drive and the enjoyment factor is way high. A bonus is the ease of manuevering and parking such a small car.
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Excellent Buy - 2009 Saturn Sky
By BLAnthony - January 18 - 10:26 amJust got the car this month and so far no problems and it is a blast to drive. I got the red line edition because the power was lacking in the base model. The car will throw you back in your seat when to tromp on the gas. I got the automatic transmission and it shifts smooth. I opted for the midnight blue with tan top & interior, which gave the interior a nice two-tone color. The car is stylin with no complaints there. I would say with the top up visibility is diminished quite a bit but the cabin is quite guiet. The only complaint I can think of is the leg room for taller passengers in the passenger seat. Also another complaint is the lack of storage in the cabin. Great car for the money.
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Can you define "Fun?" - 2008 Saturn Sky
By smk - September 29 - 2:23 pmMy Saturn SC2 was fun but doesnt come close to this car. The car mags groan about the top, but with only a few uses it became a 3 minute process. I have trouble finding cars that are comfy for my back but there was no question - this is great! Compared to the 35 mpg in my SC2 the 25mpg isnt good mileage. This car is a definite head turner and most people cant believe its a Saturn. People at work want rides w/ the top down and there may be a waiting list somewhere. The lack of storage is a problem, but Ive invested in the removable luggage rack, which Saturn doesnt tout as an answer to that problem. Was recently at a car museums roadster exhibit and people were looking at my Sky!
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The Sky is the limit - 2007 Saturn Sky
By Lou Gonzales - September 23 - 9:03 amWhen I first saw the Sky at the LA Auto show I fell in love. I went to the dealer and gave a deposit. I said that I would have to drive it first to make sure I really would be satisfied with my purchase. When my car arrived the dealership called me and set up a time for me to view and test drive the new 07 Saturn Sky. After about 1 mile I realized that I had made the right decision. The car handles better than my 04 Z4 BMW and looks way better. I never thought I would be driving a Saturn but this car is hot. I love this car.
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The Saturn Sky Redline Rocks! - 2008 Saturn Sky
By Saffy - September 15 - 1:06 pmI love this car. It has fantastic looks, lots of power, great handling, and is comfortable. It gathers a crowd no matter where we go. Like any small 2 seat roadster it has limited trunk space but there is more there than one thinks. And contrary to some reports - putting the manual convertible top down is actually fairly easy and with little to no practice can be a quick one-hand operation. The built-in OnStar and hands-free cell phone are wonderful. The 5-speed manual gets great gas mileage. The only downside is that you may suffer some pain at first from the permanent grin that you will have from driving and owning this car.
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Its Fun to drive - 2008 Saturn Sky
By sallysky - August 28 - 5:40 amThis is a great car. It hugs the road and performs outstanding. Storage space is actually not that bad. I would agree that the top could be easier to put down and up.. Gave build quality a 9 because the steering pump was bad from the day of delivery. Way to go GM.
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Love our Sky REDLINE - 2008 Saturn Sky
By Bill and Claudia - August 18 - 6:43 pmAfter searching for a fun car to enjoy on weekends & short trips we found our Sky.The original owner traded it in 10 months after purchasing it on impulse, car had 4300 miles on odometer and still had new car smell.On our first weekend drive to Fl. Keys we knew our Sky was the right choice, Great performance & handling.After a few months we had a Magnaflow exhaust system installed"WOW"it was music to my ears,then a stainless steel Bullit mesh grille on the front end.The GM cold air intake will not void warranty so that will be next upgrade.Our Sky is going to be a very special collector car now that Saturn is gone, so sad the possibility of a V6 with 300HP is only a dream now.I Love my SKY!
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Fun! - 2007 Saturn Sky
By Adam - July 1 - 11:20 amThe car is fun to drive and cost less than many of the roadsters out there. Always getting attention, even from Mercedes SL500 owners. Very comfortable even for long drives. Exceptional detail for the price and Saturn.
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The Sky is the Limit - 2007 Saturn Sky
By SKYROCKET - May 13 - 2:36 amI have waited 7 long months to get mine, but is has been worth every month. It is the most beautiful car on the road today. Way to go Saturn. The fit and finsih are top rate and the ride is wonderful, I am going to Napa next weekend.
