Saturn Sky Review

2009 Saturn Sky Convertible

The Saturn Sky brings some welcome warmth and interest to the Saturn brand after years of lackluster products. A two-seat rear-drive roadster with a manually operated convertible top, the Sky rides on a platform shared with the Pontiac Solstice.

The Saturn Sky offers a respectable amount of bang for the buck. Its exterior styling also turns heads almost as well as an exotic's. Unfortunately, the Sky lacks refinement, particularly in regards to usability and precision driving dynamics. The car's reputation for reliability is also suspect. But if you're looking for an expressive, lightweight convertible with sharp styling and everyday comfort at a relatively low price, the Sky is worth a test-drive.

Current Saturn Sky

The Saturn Sky is a compact two-seat convertible available in two trim levels: base and Red Line. Standard equipment includes the expected powered accessories, air-conditioning, a manual cloth top, 18-inch wheels, stability control, a limited-slip differential and a six-speaker CD audio system with satellite radio. The hot-rod Red Line model is similarly equipped but boasts unique interior and exterior accents, Bluetooth and a sport-tuned suspension with performance tires to go along with its more powerful engine.

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

Inside, a wraparound dash and high door sills surround the driver. The transmission tunnel is unusually wide, which can put the squeeze on oversized occupants. When it comes time to drop the top, we've found the Sky's operation remarkably fussy by modern standards. 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.

Most drivers will find the Sky's driving dynamics enjoyable enough to make it a fun and engaging choice. Ride quality is quite acceptable for normal daily use. The base 2.4-liter engine is only adequate in terms of acceleration and refinement, but the Red Line can really scoot with its turbocharged four. However, more serious drivers may find that the Sky is a rather blunt instrument when driven hard on curving, twisty roads. The steering lacks feel and the overall experience is less enjoyable than what's provided by the Mazda Miata.

Used Saturn Sky Models

The Saturn Sky roadster was introduced for 2007. Stability control, a limited-slip differential and satellite radio become standard equipment in 2008.

SELECT A SPECIFIC SATURN SKY MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.