Overview:
This 2000 model Saturn wagon was a pleasant surprise to drive. The most noticeable surprise is the powerful V6 engine, which is a big departure from previous models, which only offered small 4-cylinder engines. Second surprise is that it is spacious and more than I expected from a compact car. Although it is classed as a Mid-Size Wagon, it is still a small car. I’ve heard it said that this car is the answer to the prayers of Saturn owners who wanted a larger car, but wanted to stay with Saturn. The response to the consumer need was answered in good cargo area and a roomy rear seat is. You won’t however get away from the slightly closed in feeling in the front seats. It’s definitely cozy up front. Still the added space of the LW wagon serves to accommodate 5-passengers.
Most Saturn owners know, the cars trademark dent- and corrosion-resistant polymer body-side panels really do offer protection you don’t get in most cars. I think that is a good feature but don’t believe it will sway folks to buy or not buy this car. I believe it will continue to sell based on its appeal to those looking for a “soft-sell” approach and with ballpark prices that range from $10- 20,000 the car is affordable to almost anyone.
You may know General Motors launched the company in 1985 as an autonomous subsidiary to do business differently. In 1989 Saturn launched their lineup of small cars. Since then, more than two million S-Series coupes, sedans and wagons have been sold. And a statistic that impresses me is that 40 percent of Saturn customers buy another Saturn. That speaks volumes for the level of satisfaction their approach has achieved. If you haven’t been in a dealership take the time to visit even if just for the experience. They really are down home kind of folks who are the antithesis of the stereotyped car salesman.
The 2000 Saturn LW 4-door wagon is available in two trims: LW1 and this LW2. And like most cars today they tend to be cookie-cutter designs (generic / plain wrap). Or you may prefer “clean lines” as a description of the styling.
The competition:
Ford Taurus Wagon $19,560, Subaru Legacy Wagon $18,395 – $23,695, Volkswagen Passat Wagon $22,000 – $28,455.
Good News:
Powerful, roomy, smooth, economical to buy and operate, and truly fun to drive because it handles great.
Bad News:
Unexciting styling.
Standard Equipment:
3.0-liter182-horsepower V6, 4-speed automatic, dual airbags, child safety locks, daytime running lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel, 4-wheel (ABS) disc brakes, traction control, alloy wheels, fog lights, security system with remote entry, rear wiper/ washer, dual heated power mirrors, stereo with CD and Cassette, air conditioning, cruise control, power locks and windows, split folding rear seats.
Gas Stats:
20 City and 26 Highway MPG.
Pricing:
MSRP $21,360.
Your comments are welcomed. My e-mail is movello@earthlink.net.
Copyright ©1994 – An Automotive Love Affair
