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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  This is a dream car. - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By B.Birtles - May 24 - 8:06 pm

  This dream car gets so many Ohhs and Ahhs from strangers. I even had a guy and his wife (in a sport convertible of their own) follow me back to the dealership to check out the car! A smooth ride with responsive handling that makes you feel like you won the lottery. Everyone should grab the experience at least once in their life time! Saturn sales reps were the most accomodating and previous experience with the service center on my last Saturn was something I actually talked about. VIP service for the little guy. Ongoing mailings brought the SKY to my attention; my deposit was made days later.

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  18 months, still a blast - 2008 Saturn Sky
  By lahilljr - April 27 - 2:16 pm

  I have been very pleased with my 08 Red Line Carbon Flash SE Automatic. 260 hp & ft/lbs torque in a car less than 2900 pounds that is sexy in black on black leather and lots of chrome equals a smile on my face and everyone that looks at it. I have no commute so the miles stay very low (only 6800 in 18 months)and I use it primarily to bop around our small Florida community. Decent gas mileage too, probably 20 mpg or so overall. For what I use it for its perfect, just dont get one if you expect to fit more than one other person and a small overnight bag!

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  Best 30k Roadster on the road - 2008 Saturn Sky
  By TomT - April 20 - 4:56 pm

  It was my wife who first got interested in the car. I had always wanted a Vette for a 3rd fun to drive car, but she did not like the new ones and finding an older one that fit our budget just did not work out. It was not until I saw one in person that I fell in love with the car. Cannot believe how much fun it is to drive, you just go looking fot the windest roads you can find to put the car through its paces. Great power to weight ratio. Am always getting compliments on the looks, and most cannot believe its a Saturn.

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  Saturn Sky - A Winner - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By Shagguy - March 28 - 6:33 am

  Excellent vehicle. Very satisfied. Corners very well, average pick up off the line. I was not looking for a racing vehicle. I wanted a fun car and I got it. I have owned Corvettes and RXs. This rates right up there in the fun to drive category. Thanks Saturn !

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  Head Turner - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By Sky Rocket - March 17 - 4:53 pm

  Bought this roadster for my wifes 25th wedding annivesary and simply blew her away. We both love the ride and looks of this beautiful ride. For the money, why buy any other 2 seater. It doesnt matter about the storage! Its a sports car. Beautiful lines, wheels, chrome in the right places make this a standout. Much more attractive than the Solstice. Have I mentioned the power this sleeper produces? Quick, very quick. Makes you laugh when the turbo kicks in. Better be ready when you get on it. I drove from Roswell, Ga. to Burlington, NC on 9.5 gallons. That 33 MPG at 75 to 80 MPH with the air on. What other sports car can make that claim. Saturn has hit the grand slam with this one!

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  I would buy again. - 2009 Saturn Sky
  By nonnysky - March 5 - 2:00 am

  Willingly bought this car. Any complaints by owners are moot. Problem is unions killed the deal with Penske. This car deserved to be developed. I love mine, park it in winter, and embarrass Mustang owners often. You must be careful at speed and pay attention to the tach. Dont let anyone tell you the Mazda Lotus knockoff is a better car. I plan on buying 1 or 2 more, looking for a Solstice Coupe also.

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  My Sky 2009 - 2009 Saturn Sky
  By kathnrich - February 5 - 7:18 pm

  We drove this vehicle home from a 200 mile trip. It is entirely delightful! Plenty of punch with the turbo. No issue at all with the top!, none.,1,2,3. Reviews on the top, putting it up or down are stupid. Its a sports car, its small. Trunk space is another very stupid comment, Its a sports car, its small!! Buy a [non-permissible content removed] full size car if you want trunk space and want to take the beach chairs, large bags on vacation. Thats why I have a Suburban!!Very fun car to drive and look at. My ONLY complaint is the window controls and where they are located. We have the automatic and love it.

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  Sky is right, it is out of this world! - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By dpick - February 1 - 11:53 am

  My wife has had her Sky for three weeks now. It is a blast to drive. It handles well, the automatic is a blast in manual mode. It stops traffic every where we go. People come up in gas stations, restaurants, everywhere!

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  Jones1 - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By Jones1 - January 19 - 5:23 pm

  The Saturn Sky is a fun car to drive! It gets excellent gas mileage. Sound system is good. This is my first convertible, and I love it.

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  What a ride - 2007 Saturn Sky
  By eseg438 - January 18 - 2:00 am

  I ordered this car back in May of 2006 and finally got it in January of 2007. Was it worth the wait? Oh yeah. Power, road gripping, and lots of fun. Now has added power seats and power door locks