ImSaturn, Saturn’s own social networking site, has moved its operations over to SaturnFans.com.  With the impending end of Saturn, I guess the folks at ImSaturn felt strongly enough about its members that it has moved all its stuff over to SaturnFans.com.

Slowly but surely, Saturn as we have all known it will soon be nothing but a memory and some gigabits in cyber space.

ImSaturn at SaturnFans.com

With all the Saturn stores closing, owners will need someplace to get their Saturns repaired.

Never fear:  GM has a plan!  (Shocking, I know!)

They will have Saturn Authorized shops that can take care of your Saturns!  Maybe not the warm, fuzzy feeling you used to get when you visited your friends at Saturn of Wherever, but the dealers will be competent and can work on your cars.

Follow this ** LINK **

Saturn stores are closing left and right.  And some of those stores will try and stay open to sell used cars or maybe even get another franchise.

But here is the sad and scary truth:  When these stores close or switch from selling new Saturns, they will shut down the corporation that owns them.  Shutting down the corporation keeps them from having to pay any debts they owe.  They may even file bankruptcy. 

All this to say to any Saturn owners, employees, or vendors is get your money, cars or stuff while you still can.  A closed business is hard to get anything out of. 

Technicians, get your tools!  Paint chip guys, get your money and only do work when can get paid on the spot!  Oil and battery distributors, get your money!  Tow truck drivers, get your money!!

This is true for any business that is in trouble but when you have so many Saturn dealers who have been struggling for so long, the end will come very quickly.

Freda Lockhart, a Cadillac and Saturn dealer from Indianapolis, died this week.  She was 83.

Lockhart was the first female Cadillac and Saturn dealer in the country and was heavliy involved in her community.  She will be missed.

See the whole story ** HERE **

And done goes another!

Saturn of Southlake in Morrow, GA (just south of Atlanta) has shut it’s doors for good.  The Saturn logo has been painted over or removed from the property and they sold all their special tools and their phone number to the GM dealer across the street. 

The service folks are just out of luck but some of the sales folks and managers are headed to Saturn of Decatur.  They are going to try and keep the doors open there by selling used cars and getting a national service franchise.  As it stands now, they have 2 managers for every 1 salesperson!  Those numbers just don’t add up!!

Slowly but surely, all the Saturn stores will be closed and the 100 year car company Saturn was supposed to be will be all but a memory.

Saturn of Marietta and Union City have announced that they are closing as of January 4th.  They will move their Saturn service and parts operations to Capital Buick-GMC (it is owned by the same folks).

Marietta was one of the first stores in the country to open.  The Bridges are great folks and everyone I know who has worked with them really liked them.

Marietta shutting down is sad.  GM is to blame for it all!

The one store that I really cared about closed its doors on Friday.

Saturn of Fort Wayne in good old Fort Wayne, Indiana was my first store.  I started there in May, 1991, which seems like a lifetime ago.  We had a decent crew to start out.  The GM was handed the store mainly because they wanted him to be in a more controlled environment.  The F&I Manager had been a good salesman and this was his opportunity to step up.

There were 3 of us to start:  Gaylord Barnes, Jarrod Gerardot and me. We never thought we needed any more sales people but three weeks later, we got Mike “Speedy” Mills and Lon Messmore.

Were we all pals?  No, but we did work together well.

Lots changed over the years: new managers, new sales people and eventually, a new facility.

Saturn may be done but the people who worked in this particular store took great care of their customers.

To Tom Kelley, the retailer, I say thanks for the opportunity that you gave to a geeky 23 year old.  You taught me a lot about the car business and taking care of customers and employees.

Seems the Renault/Nissan didn’t want the increased competition.  Who can blame them?  Competition from your own products hasn’t worked for GM, why would it work for Nissan?

See the whole story from Automotive News * HERE *

Here are some random thoughts regarding what Saturn is now and what it will be:

1.  I have heard that several stores are going to try to just “hang in there” and sell used cars.  Now, to be fair, most Saturn stores are just used car stores with a Saturn sign.  They are really just like Suzuki.  But the problem is their overhead.  The new car department has lost money like crazy for awhile.  The service and parts departments have been propping up the stores.  As Saturn “winds down”, the service and parts business will drop off pretty dramatically.  And then retailers are left with a hefty rent on a great building and only the used car department to hold them up.  I don’t see it happening easily.

2.  Saturn resale values are toast!  I know that my 2007 Outlook just lost $5K!  Now I am glad I bought GAP insurance!  My 1998 SL1 is still worth lots more than the $100 I paid for it so I am ok there. 

3.  With what GM did to Saturn, will I ever really want to buy another GM vehicle?  Hard to say.  I have owned over 20 vehicles and only one was not built by GM (a used Capri).  I really like the G8….no wait, they quit building that too.  I guess the only thing I would consider would be a Canyon or Colorado. 

4.  The “rank and file” folks still in stores seem to be falling into 2 categories:  those who were just waiting for this to happen and those who believe that something will come along and save Saturn.  The ones who are waiting to be saved had better get their resumes together!  The dream is dead.

A woman from Atlanta thought she won a new car. 

When Angela Thorne went to Saturn of Marietta, she went with a key in hand to try her luck on the magic box in the showroom.  In went the key and on went the lights!  She Won!!!

Well, maybe not.

Seems in the small print, there are several more steps she has to go through to verify she is really the winner.

Check out the whole story with video from CBS 46 in Atlanta.  * HERE *

Motors Holding Company (ie:  The “Bad” GM) has announced Saturn’s official last day.

It will be October 31, 2010.  That is the last day that retailers can submit warranty claims or get any support whatsoever from Saturn.

Now, this does not mean that your local Saturn retailer will be open that long.  On the contrary, I would expect that most if not all stores will shut down much sooner.  See, there will be no new Saturns.  There will be no 2010 models.  What a retailer has on their lot right now is all they will have.

If retailers have been losing money month in and month out, I can’t imagine they will want to stay open.  They will find homes for their remaining inventory (both new cars and parts) and call it quits.

I will keep updating as I get more information.

Here are some links to the latest stories regarding Saturn’s demise.  Many have quotes from retailers, team members, and Congressmen.  Check them all out:

* Tennessee *

* Saturn Owners *

Wall Street Journal

TheStreet.com

San Francisco

The Huffington Post

Steve Parker - The Huffington Post

Here is a story about Saturn of Michiana, a Saturn retailer in Mishawaka, IN.  The owner, Mike Leep, is one of the good guys in the car business.  I have known Mike for almost 20 years and he truly believes in taking care of his people!

Check out the article * HERE *

After several months of speculation that Roger Penske would be Saturn’s Savior, he has decided that taking over a brand that is damaged beyond repair is something even he does not want to tackle.

Am I surprised?  A bit.  I thought Roger was going to give it a shot. 

Everyone will blame this on the unnamed manufacturer, but the real blame for the failure will ultimately be the retailers themselves.

The retailers that remain are so cash strapped that many are months behind in paying for things they need for day to day operations.  Roger was in need of retailers who were going to be able to step up and spend some much needed money on advertising, facilities, and personel.  Unfortunately, the retailers just don’t have that kind of money.  In better times, they could have borrowed but the economy is keeping that from happening.

Am I sad that Saturn is dead?  I am.  I spent 17 years of my career with Saturn.  I am sorry they have not had the support from the Mother Ship that they needed.  Shame on GM for letting this happen. 

There will be a bunch of great people out there looking for jobs now.  I wish them the best.

I guess the question now is:  Is all my Saturn stuff worth anything????

Here is a link to an article in the Detroit Free Press: Saturn Deal Collapses!

GM Launches 60-Day Satisfaction Guarantee;

Offer Bolsters Campaign to Earn Consumer Confidence

·         ‘May the Best Car Win’ marketing effort demonstrates GM’s confidence

in the quality, durability of its cars, trucks and crossovers

·         60-day Satisfaction Guarantee covers 2009 and 2010 Model Year vehicles

·         Builds on 100,000-mile/five-year powertrain warranty

·         Covers all vehicles sold by Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac

·         Program runs Sept. 14 through Nov. 30

DETROIT – General Motors announced today that it will offer a Satisfaction Guarantee to eligible buyers of new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles.  The guarantee allows customers to return their vehicle to their dealer between 31 and 60 days of purchase and receive a refund of the purchase price for the vehicle.

The announcement is part of a larger “May the Best Car Win” marketing campaign that demonstrates GM’s confidence in its vehicles when compared head-to-head with the most competitive vehicles in each vehicle segment.

The new Satisfaction Guarantee bolsters GM’s existing industry-leading consumer coverage, which includes a transferrable100,000-mile/five-year (whichever comes first) limited powertrain warranty, roadside assistance and courtesy transportation.

“We think if consumers give us a fair chance and look at the facts on the things that matter most to them, like design, fuel economy, warranty and safety, our vehicles are the best choices – that’s what makes an offer like this possible,” said Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman, Marketing and Communications.  “The Cadillac SRX and CTS Wagon, the Buick LaCrosse, the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, for instance, are all outstanding new products.  This new marketing effort should help us communicate these facts to consumers. 

“We know that we’ll need to work very hard to get people’s attention and encourage them to give Chevy, Buick, Cadillac and GMC a try.  We think the ‘May the Best Car Win’ campaign and the Satisfaction Guarantee offer should help re-instill confidence in the excellence of our products.  We’re putting our money down that if people buy one of our vehicles and don’t absolutely love it, we’ll take it back.  We will stand behind them both in the short-term and over the long haul,” Lutz said.

Details of GM’s new Satisfaction Guarantee:

·         Offer covers 2009 and 2010 Model Year Chevys, Buicks, GMCs and Cadillacs (except medium duty trucks)

·         Customers (one per household) can return their vehicle between 31 and 60 days with less than 4,000 miles

·         Customers will be informed in writing before they buy the vehicle of the terms of the Satisfaction Guarantee

·         Customers must take delivery by Nov. 30

·         The Satisfaction Guarantee covers the vehicle purchase price and sales tax, but not other add-ons like accessories, negative equity on a trade-in or other fees;  other restrictions apply

·         Leased vehicles are not included

·         More details are available beginning Monday, Sept. 14, online at [Chevy][Buick][Cadillac][GMC].com/guarantee

GM is still looking for a hook to get buyers into their showrooms.  In August, it was Cash for Clunkers.  Since the government money ran out, they are going to try something revolutionary!  A money back guarantee.

No wait!  Didn’t they try this before??   And haven’t we heard from GM brass that it was a bad idea when Saturn did it?  I guess it wasn’t such a bad idea to begin with.

GM will be offering a 60 day, 4000 mile Money Back Guarantee for anyone who purchases a 2009 or 2010 Buick, GMC, Chevy or Cadillac.  The only catch:  you must keep it at least 31 days.  And the vehicle cannot have more than 4000 miles on it.  I am sure there will be other exceptions like it can’t have been wrecked or modified.  I actually wouldn’t be surprised to see them use the Saturn Money Back Guarantee form!

The whole story is ** HERE **

Follow this link to see the full line of 2009 Saturns:

2009 Saturn Brochures

This is an interesting article that examines the GM Orphans:  Saturn, Saab and Hummer and tries to determine if they can really be viable in the automotive world without GM’s support.

See it * HERE *

Have you ever tried to break-up with someone and they say “no” to you.  There was a Seinfeld episode where George is trying to break up with a woman and she won’t go away.  It looks like this is what Saturn of London in Canada is doing.

Roger Penske has decided he does not want Saturn retailers in Canada as part of his new Saturn venture.  And of course, GM is all done with anything Saturn.  So this leaves the Canadian retailers out in the cold.  Most of them will be closed in the next few months and all of them will be closed by the end of the year.

Except Saturn of London!  They have decided that at some point, Penske will want Canada as a market again and they plan to be around when that happens.

See the whole article * Saturn of London says “No” to break-up *

Saturn of Dundee in suburban Chicago has shut down.  Saturn of Dundee was owned by Lou Sobh, a mega-dealer based in Atlanta, GA.  Sobh also owns several other Saturn stores.  Customers have been directed to Saturn of Schaumberg. 

It is sad for the area.  The store has been part of the revitalization of the area.  Hopefully someone can utilize the space left behind.

I have been saying that there will be some stores to close before Roger Penske takes over.  This is just another casualty of the GM debacle!

See stories * HERE * and + HERE +

Roger Penske has decided that his new Saturn venture will only be happening in the U.S.  That leaves the few Canada retailers out in the cold (so to speak!).

Check out the local story about Saturn of Kamloops and be sure to check out the picture of the retailer…he does not look happy!!!  But why should he?  over 18 years as a retailer and now he has to blow out the remaining inventory he has and find a new franchise.

Saturn of Kamloops Closing

The story from GM was that Buick would be getting the VUE and the VUE plug-in hybrid.  This all made sense.  GM had rebadged a VUE to look like a Buick and Buick needed a vehicle that would target people younger than 60 (their current average age). 

But in an about-face, GM has killed the “VUE-ick” after just 8 days!  Who is running the show over there???

The whole article from the Detroit Free Press is ** HERE **

Great article from Motor Trend looking at the future of Saturn under the control of Roger Penske.  I wonder how many Saturn owners really care that Saturns may be all foreign made in the next few years.  I guess for a lot of them, as long as they continue to get the great service they have come to expect, it won’t be a big deal.  However, there are some of them who bought a Saturn because it was American made. That will be interesting.

See the whole article ** HERE **

Here is video of Tom Kelley, Saturn retailer from Fort Wayne, IN talking about the Penske/Saturn deal.  I used  to work for TK.  He has always been in the “know” when it comes to Saturn and GM.

According to The Chosun Ilbo, Roger Penske is evaluating the SM3 that is built by Renault Samsung.  It would be a replacement for the ION/ASTRA. 

Roger has to get working because Saturn is now without a small car.  And GM will cease production on the AURA, VUE and OUTLOOK in 2011.  It will take some time to get any foreign vehicle ready for the US market.

The whole story is ** HERE **

Here is another article (written in German) but it has pictures of the SM3.  ** SM3 Pictures **

After several weeks of no information, Roger Penske finally speaks specifically about the Saturn deal.

“We’ve said that our goal is to close this transaction by the end of September, and we’re prepared to do that,” he said.

And it looks like GM will continue to build the AURA, OUTLOOK and VUE through 2011.  I just don’t see how those vehicles will be able to compete with their GM counterparts when GM will likely continue to rebate like crazy.

It also looks like the Canadian retailers will be left twisting for a bit longer.  There is no current plan to bring the Canadian Saturn retailers into the Penske fold.

See the whole article from Reuters * HERE *

Consumer Reports puts their customer-focused spin on buying a Saturn, Hummer or Saab.

All in all, they take the position of “Buyer Beware”. 

The whole article is here:  Buy a Saturn??

Saturn of Charleston has earned the GM 2008 Mark of Excellence Award!  Way to go guys!!

Here is the whole story:   Mark of Excellence

Beginning sometime in the next couple of weeks, GM will be promoting the final closeout of Saturn vehicles that it produced for its retailers.  They want to clear the decks of any GM/Saturn vehicles in anticipation of Penske/Saturn vehicles.

So, there will probably be some great deals to be had later this summer.

Here is the kicker, though:  I have been told from some Saturn retailers that they will not be able to order new Penke Saturns until October.  The plan is for GM to continue to supply Penske with the VUE, AURA and OUTLOOK at least until Penske can get his vehicle plan into place. If they can’t order until October, it will be December at the earliest that Saturn retailers will receive vehicles.

So, if you want to buy a new Saturn,  better do it quick!

Also, GM has taken away several of the special pricing options that some customers had.  The Credit Union deal, Military deal and some others have just gone away.  I can only guess that the GM employee discount and the supplier discount will suffer the same fate soon.

Hopefully, many Saturn stores will be getting their used car operations cooking.  But, the catch with that is that now all remaining Saturn retailers will be going to the auction trying to get the best used Saturns they can find.  Demand goes up on a limited supply and up goes the price.

I guess now is the time to buy a new or used Saturn!!!!

Check out his comment that was left here on TheSaturnBlog.com.  Jerry has every right to be upset with Saturn.  He was sold a vehicle that was a problem from the start and no one to help him when it went BANG!

Sorry Jerry!  (I am guessing that was the first apology you have received!)

Jerry Says:

June 26, 2009

To the owners of all 2003 Saturn Vues with VTI transmission:

BEWARE! BEWARE! BEWARE! In Febuary 2008 my husband and I bought a 2003 Saturn Vue with 56600 miles on it. That same year for the Fourth of July we took our friends to Gatlinburg Tennessee to a cabin we had rented. We, since we had not had our car very long, decided we would drive. We drove down there which is about 8 hours from where we live in Indiana and on the drive back noticed on the highway that our RPMs were acting funny and all of a sudden, with no warning, it just revved up and was unable to move. We were on a major highway and was able to get our car off the highway to a somewhat safe spot. We then called our warranty company (we had purchased a extended warranty plan, not through Saturn) and told them we needed a tow truck and a ride for four people. We had the car towed to a GM dealer in Corbin Kentucky. It was on a Sunday on a holiday weekend and of course, everything was shut down until Monday morning. We managed to get a ride with the tow truck driver to the airport so that we could rent a car to drive the rest of the way home. We finally arrived at the Lexington Kentucky airport about 2 hours and 450.00 dollars later. We rented a car then for another 160.00 dollars and were on our way home thinking that the worse was behind us, but we were so wrong!!! Our troubles had just begun.

That Monday morning I called down to the Corbin GM dealer and explained why my car was dropped off in the parking lot. He then told me that his mechanics would not touch a VTI transmission from Saturn. He then told me the ONLY place that would look at the car was the Saturn dealership in Lexington Kentucky and that he could have it towed there for a fee of about 200.00!!! I then called our warranty company, which is Guardian, and asked them what I should do. They said they had a AAMCO transmission shop that would fix the transmission as soon as they could locate one. I called and talked to the Saturn dealership in Lexington and spoke to the service manager to see what they could or would do for me since this was actually the third Saturn product I had purchased. They basically told me that there was nothing they could or would do for me. I could pay to have my car towed AGAIN and they would not reimburse me anything. If I had the car towed and they found anything wrong with the car from me (or the two previous owners) they would not pay to fix their faulty transmission and it could cost me $5500.00 to repair. As for many families, that is a huge amount of money to pay to fix a car.We had just recently had our then 6 year old daughter diagnosed with cancer and so with our mounting medical bills there was no way that was even an option. Not to mention that we needed a reliable vehicle to get her back and forth to the hospital and her weekly, sometimes daily, chemotherapy treatments. Saturn did not care and was not sympathetic at all. They basically said that there was nothing they could do for us. We then got on line and found out that because the tranny was such a piece of junk Saturn had extended their factory warranty on certain models and years. When we called Saturn and gave them our VIN number they said the car fit the guidelines for the warranty extension but we would still have a $500.00 deductible and if they found any fault they would not cover any of the repairs. We then found out about the lawsuit that was filed on behalf of all the other poor misled people that had bought that car. Saturn KNEW they had made a faulty transmission and instead of doing the right thing on behalf of all of us hard working Americans they REFUSED to do anything about it!!!! I think that is in such poor taste for them as a corporation. I wonder if the CEO of Saturn would put his daughter in a 2003 Vue knowing what a piece of junk it is. He most certainly would NOT because he KNEW it was unsafe and unreliable. He then gave his OK for the rest of us to spend our hard earned cash on it knowing what he was selling and refusing to make right on it just to line his pockets with more of OUR spending cash!!! Shame on him, he shouldn’t be able to sleep at night!!!

When we realized that Saturn would not stand behind their OWN vehicle we went back to our warranty company and had no choice but to let them fix it. They had our car for over a month in Kentucky, all the while we were up here in Indiana with only one car. The transmission place finally called and told us we could pick up our precious VUE. We then rented a car (AGAIN) for over $100.00 to drive down there. We picked up our car and drove it back to Indiana. On the way home my husband thought it sounded strange and the RPMs still weren’t where they were suppose to be. We got home (thankfully) and called our warranty company and explained what we thought was wrong with it. They told us to take it to another tranny shop and have it looked at. They looked at it and said they thought everything was okay. Fast forward another 10,000 miles…. this time we decided to visit wine country with the SAME friends we went to Tennessee with…everything was going good…we were sampling wine, talking, laughing, have a good old time when wouldn’t you know it the tranny went out AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! To make a long story short it took another month to fix it again!!!!

We have since decided to trade it in but the kicker is that NOBODY out there will give us even HALF what we owe on it making it very difficult to trade for something decent!!! Most dealers see that car coming and almost laugh us off the lot when we tell them its our trade in….

Just some words of wisdom for all you car shoppers out there…be careful and do NOT give any of your hard earned money to Saturn…they are a corporation of liars and cheaters…they mass produce junk and are so embarrassed by it they won’t even stand behind their own vehicles!!!

Please feel free to give us a call if you have any problems or questions ***-***-****.

Jerry Callahan

From Saturn VTi Transmissions, 2009/07/01 at 11:12 PM

Introducing the newest Transformer:  It turns from a Saturn retail facility into a Kia dealership!

It seems that in many markets, former Saturn stores are the perfect location for a new Kia franchise.  The stores are already set up for one brand and they are spread out enough that you don’t have dealers tripping over each other. 

I always said that Saturn missed the mark by focusing their attention on trying to compete with Honda and Toyota and they never saw Kia coming up from behind to pass them.  And now Kia has “taken over” some old Saturn stores.  I applaud Kia for their efforts and growth. 

GM, Kia is what Saturn should have been!  Maybe Penske has what it takes.

The whole story is ** HERE **

And here goes another!

Saturn of Naples is shutting down as of today.  The other two stores owned by Bob Goodman, Saturn of Fort Myers and Coral Springs, will continue operations.  Customers will be directed towards those two stores for warranty repairs.

Goodman says in the interview that the value of the real estate outweighed the income from Saturn operations.  That is pretty sad when Florida real estate is worth more than your retail operation.

* Story with video *

and

** Naples News **

There is some confusion about the Saturn/GM warranty.

Can you go to any GM dealer?  Maybe.  Do you have to go to a Saturn retailer?  Maybe. 

Following is a story from Consumer Reports.  In it they say that if you have a Saturn, you are supposed to go to a Saturn retailer for warranty worrk unless it is an emergency (that is left open to interpretation) or that there is not a Saturn retailer nearby (also, open to interpretation).  They suggest you call the assistance center if you are unsure. 

The other problem is that even in the event of an emergency, will your local GM dealer work on your Saturn?  That is up in the air. 

Check out ** Consumer Reports article about your Saturn warranty **

And another one is gone. 

Looks like Roger Penske cannot stop the current closings of Saturn retailers just by saying he is going to take over.  A couple of articles both regarding Saturn of Carbondale in Illinois. 

One is just your basic “Out of Business” article, while the other has some quotes from the retailer.  You gotta love the response from him.  He has been hosed by Saturn and GM and he is not afraid to say it!  I would buy a car from this guy!!

* CLOSING *

and

** Closing with RETAILER comments **

Interesting article that looks at where the new Saturns will come from and how “American” they may be.

Will Penske really be good for Saturn?  Or is he just in this to line his own pocket.  Many “Saturn Fans” think he is saving Saturn for Saturn’s sake.  I am not so sure. 

** Mixed Feelings **

Check out my friends over at SaturnPlace.com.  They have some great info regarding Saturn. 

SaturnPlace.com

For all the kudos given to GM for selling Saturn so it can live to fight another day (against GM, by the way), the writer of the following article articulates very well the problems GM and Roger Penske will have with Saturn going forward.

GM has new competition and Penske has a damaged brand. 

Check it out ** HERE **

Do you think Jill Ladjiak wil continue to be the GM for the Saturn brand?   Or anyone else in senior Saturn management for that matter?

I am sure that GM would love to be able to dump these white collar folks on Roger but I don’t think he will be as willing to take them.  I think every decision that he makes will be based on “what is in it for me”, which is totally opposite to the way the GM folks think.

If I were Roger Penske, I would interview anyone who is currently in Saturn-land personally that showed any kind of promise for the new venture.  If they start spewing “GM-speak” at him about ANYTHING, that would be the end of the line.

People need to understand that Saturn as we knew it is dead.  There is a new sheriff in town and he is going to do things HIS way.  And if employees, retailers or customers don’t like it, I am guessing that he just won’t care.  He knows how to make money at his businesses and that is what he will do with Saturn.

I would really like to see the new dealer agreements that Penske will offer to the remaining 350 retailers.  I think that Penske can and will put whatever parameters in the agreement that he feels necessary.

Like:

1.  The amount of advertising dollars a retailer will HAVE to spend each month and year.  A new venture like this with a damaged brand will take a ton of advertising to get off the ground

2.  The number of new vehicles a retailer will HAVE to take each month.  Roger will have to make promises to GM for the number of vehicles he will take.  And he will probably have to make those decision months in advance.  He will have to know that if he sources 1000 OUTLOOKS, that the retailers will take them.  I am sure the agreement will force them to.

3.  Minimum CSI (or whatever score he chooses) to keep the franchise.  I bet that the wording will be very specific as to what a retailer will have to maintain score-wise to continue to be a retailer or Uncle Roger will either yank it straight away or give it to someone else. And no franchise law will be able to protect the retailer if he signs the agreement.

The rumor has been in the news for a few weeks but now is it official:  Roger Penske, who runs PAG (Penske Auto Group), will be taking over the Saturn brand, which includes the brands, trademarks, service and parts operations and distribution.

According to reports, Penske will offer each of the remaining 350 or so US Retailers a spot in his new Saturn. 

As far as vehicles go, Saturn will continue with the VUE, AURA, and OUTLOOK.  Down the road, Penske is planning to add Renault vehicles as well as vehicles sourced from Samsung.

Can this all work?  That will be the big question.  There is no doubt that Roger Penske is first and foremost a business man.  He has put himself in the Saturn business to make a profit. 

Stay tuned for more as details emerge!

Check out Roger’s Wikipedia page Wikipedia

Link to Penske’s corporate site: Corporate

With all the Saturn retailers closing, I am a bit troubled when one so close to me closes and I don’t even know it.  Saturn of Macon has closed its doors.  The current owners had been in there for about 2 year or so.  I guess they didn’t see that they were going to make it.

That leaves a huge Saturn-hole in the middle part of Georgia.  Saturn of Columbus is still open and there are two retailers on the south side of Atlanta.

Saturn of Macon - Rest in Peace!

I am getting tired of hearing about stores closing!  The latest is Saturn of Olympia in Washington.  They are cutting Saturn loose because they don’t want to happen to them what has happened to so many Chrysler dealers…..once the Corporation files for Chapter 11 protection, the dealer agreements are null and void. 

This means that the part of the agreement that says that if a dealer closes, the manufacturer will take back new vehicles and parts, doesn’t exist anymore!  The dealer would then have to sell whatever “new” vehicles he has as “used” vehicles, with no incentives or factory support.  And to make matters worse, banks may decide to not finance those vehicles as “new”, even though they have never been titled.

The Saturn retailers who are hanging on and waiting for a new owner may be sadly surprised if things don’t happen the way we all hope they will.

Here is the story from The Olympian:  * FULL STORY *

The whole “Saturn can survive” thing has been pretty much outsiders who are saying they are interested.  Now, an article has surfaced that has two VERY prominent Saturn retailers climbing into bed with Roger Penske. This might just work.  I think all the retailers will need to have a financial stake in the new company but I question how much capital some of them have left.  The past several years have not been great profit years for the retailers.

The story is ** HERE **

Lithia Motors (NYSE:LAD) has announced that it is closing Saturn of Cedar Rapids on May 13th.  Lithia Motors also owns Saturn of Southwest Oregon.  A call to Southwest Oregon asking if they are closing also was responded to with a “Oh, we will be around for a long time.” 

Lithia Motors owns dealerships in 13 states and has foreign and domestic stores listed on their website.

See the whole story  ** HERE **

Saturn of New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell will all close May 13th.  This means that New Orleans will have no Saturn retailers at all!  This is a huge blow to the Saturn network!!!   How can any car manufacturer/distributor not have a presence in one of the largest markets in the U.S.???

If Saturn survives, they will have a bunch of damage control to do.  GM has hung Saturn out to dry and the retailers are the ones who are paying the price!!

See the whole story here:  ** New Orleans Saturn Retailers Shut Down! **

Shocker!

Who is their right mind thought Saturn would get the newest VUE Hybrid???  Probably some SaturnFans!

Look, the deal is that GM is severing ties with Saturn.  That means no more new GM products or technology.  And for those people who think that GM will build Saturns on a contract basis, get your head out of the sand!  Saturn can’t sell the GM-clones it currently has.  Who thinks that they wil be able to sell them without GM marketing muscle and incentives???

Here is the article from the Detroit Free Press:  No VUE Hybrid for Saturn

Four more stores have decided to shut down, most citing the economy and Saturn’s uncertain future.

However, there is a an interesting quote from the owner of Saturn of Salisbury.  He is saying that the closing of his store may be temporary. If the economy turns around and if Saturn actually gets a real partner to continue operations, he may jump back into the mix.  This is the first time I have heard a retailer saying that.

Here are all four articles:

Saturn of Salisbury

Kingston

Saturn of McAllen

Saturn of Mohawk Valley

If Saturn gets sold off, will the current retailers still be able to service current Saturns and perform warranty work? GM has all their dealerships on the Global Warranty system. Would GM really want a non-GM dealer doing warranty work?

Doesn’t it seem that the goodwill Saturn has with its current owners would be totally ruined if they can no longer do warranty work? I think this will be a HUGE issue going forward.

Maybe Obama’s new warranty company will underwrite the warranties on outstanding Saturns. I can’t imagine whichever private equity firm take over would want to cover the warranties.

And what about recalls? Who would be responsible for those?

Then you get into the whole issue of parts. Would a Saturn retailer continue to stock all the parts they currently do? And how long would it take to get a parts department stocked for a new vehicle?

Right now, a parts department has to stock parts for 10 separate models (from the original S-series through the Astra). Can you imagine having to stock parts for the new vehicles in the small space that most retailers have?

It will be interesting!

GM has supposedly confirmed the rumors that Saturn will be sold rather than closed completely.

GM’s press release:
General Motors is proceeding to the next step with respect to the sale of Saturn. A number of potential buyers have surfaced and expressed interest in the Saturn brand and retailer network. GM will be reviewing expressions of interest from the potential buyers and will look to secure an agreement with a specific buyer later this year. S.J. Girsky&Co. has been retained by GM as advisor for this transaction. Saturn will continue to keep its retailers updated on its progress throughout this process.

Still seems a little vague to me.  No mention of who the buyer is or where the money is coming from.

Here is the whole article: ** Saturn Survives?? **

Ok, so when you buy a rental car, you know that it has probably been ragged out by whoever was driving it.  It has most definately been smoked in.  Drinks spilled and probably thrown up in!

But you expect that the rental agency has at least maintained the vehicle, right?  Guess again!

Check out the whole story with pictures ** HERE **

According to the Detroit News, folks are already hitting Saturn and Pontiac lots looking for “fire-sale” type deals.  But, they will probably not find them…….yet.  Oh, the deals will come, but not until much closer to the end date that GM has chosen.

Oldsmobile had 2 years left when the announcement was made that they were closing.  Saturn has just a few months.  I am sure there will be retailers who make a quick decision to get out of the Saturn business and all their cars will probably go back to GM or GMAC.

Here is an interesting thought:  If (ok, when) GM files for Chapter 11, what does that mean for retailers who close up shop?  Will the retailers themselves have to find a home for all their leftover cars?  Part of the Dealer Agreement says that GM/Saturn will help with leftover cars if a retailer closes.  But if GM is in bankruptcy, won’t that agreement be null and void?

I bet the retailers will have to get rid of the cars themselves.  THEN you will see the fire-sales.  And for those who have recently purchased a Saturn, expect your vehicle value to drop like a stone.  You may also find banks that are unwilling to even finance a Saturn.

Here is the whole article:  * No Fire-Sales…..Yet *

And the hits just keep on coming!

GM announced today that Saturn will cease operations as of the end of this year…..2-3 years earlier than expected.  They will build the last Saturn’s by the end of 2009 according to Fritz Henderson, GM CEO (and long-time Saturn-hater).

Wow!  I expected that GM would shut down Saturn but I never really thought it would be this year.  It is sad that a company that was started with the premise of being a “100 year company” won’t even make it to its 20 year anniversary!

Through all of this Saturn mess, it is the people who are doing the real work that I feel sorry for.  The dealers, managers, parts, service and sales personel.  All will be out of work very soon.

GM, you missed the boat!  Actually, you sunk the boat.  Shame on you for squandering your shareholders wealth and your customers loyalty!

** Whole story Here **

I think spoofs are some of the funniest things people put together.

Here is a very interesting article regarding the number of Saturn retailers that are closing their doors.

Jeff Lundquist, who closed Saturn of Corpus Christi after 15 years said:   ”The reason that I went with Saturn was that Saturn was everything GM was not,” he said. “Saturn was refreshing, Saturn was straightforward, and it was different. Today there is not a product that Saturn sells that’s not sold at another GM franchise. There is no reason for GM to keep Saturn anymore. It’s not different.”

Wow, what an amazing statement!  He is absolutely correct.  GM blew it when they stopped building Saturns as a Different Kind of Car and turned it into A Not so Different kind of company….It became another GM division and now it is headed the way of Oldsmobile.

Here is the whole article:  * Saturn - It’s Not Different *

This is an article from Automotive News.  Saturn retailers are hurting big time!  There are fewer than 400 remaining.  How much longer can the rest hold out????

Jamie LaReau
Automotive News
April 13, 2009 - 12:01 am ET

Dropouts

Last month Wisconsin mega-dealer John Bergstrom said he would close four of his six Saturn stores by Wednesday, April 15. He cited economic challenges and GM’s decision not to support all eight of its brands as his reasons to turn off the lights.

Chicago-area dealer Gordon Walker has kept his six Saturn stores open — for now.

But new-vehicle sales are weak. In March, he sold about 120 new vehicles combined at the six stores. Walker says he should be selling 200 to 250. He has an eight-month supply of inventory.

The bad news surrounding Saturn hurts, he says.

“We hear from people who planned on buying a car; they want their deposits back,” Walker says. “They talked to a friend who advised them not to buy a GM car.”

It was bad enough when GM decided to make the Saturn plant in Spring Hill a facility where Chevy builds the Traverse.  But now there is talk of closing the plant entirely.  And the main reason:  It is too far away from Detroit.  That was the whole idea behind having the plant in Tennessee in the first place!!!

I have said before that the ultimate demise of Saturn would be because of GM insiders who were around when Saturn started and were upset that their division did not get the money that Saturn “stole” from them.

Closing Spring Hill would be the absolute worst thing that could happen to Saturn.

Unless, of course, another manufacturer would want to build Saturns there.  I doubt that.

Here is the Detroit Free Press story:  ** Spring Hill **

And here goes another one!

Saturn of Findlay in Findlay, OH has stopped selling new Saturns.  They will continue to sell used cars out the location.  I think that is what will happen to many stores if Saturn continues down the path it is on.  The problem is that there is nothing that seems to be stopping the tailspin!  Saturn retailers continue to struggle and those that do not have very strong used car operations are toast!

About 15 years ago, I did some research into Findlay being a viable Saturn point.  I think it was back then.  Today, I guess not.

Here is the closing story:  ** Findlay Closing **

So the Retailer from Saturn of Danbury seems to know what the next move for Saturn is.  Does he really or has someone taken a few words and turned them into a story?  The article follows so you can read for yourself.  Saturn is in trouble. It does not matter who “owns” them.  They need to do some SERIOUS damage control if they are going to survive.

There are retailers closing every week.  Can they survive for a couple of years with outdated GM products until the new deal happens?  I guess we will have the full story soon.

Here is the Danbury story:  ** HERE **

Saturn of Santa Maria is the latest in a string of Saturn retailers shutting down.

Here is the story:  ** HERE **

Saturn of Eugene is set to close on March 30th.

Lithia Motors has decided that the Saturn business in Eugene, OR is not strong enough for Saturn of Eugene to stay in business.

Saturn will not have to shut down it’s operation…..the retailers who have struggled to keep Saturn alive are uninviting themselves from the Saturn business.

Bergstrom Automotive has announced it is closing 4 of his Wisconsin stores.  This is unbelievable!  Bergstrom is one of Saturn’s shining stars.  If he wants out, it is real bad for those who are left!

Here is the news story:  * HERE *

Here are 2 more Saturn retailers who have decided to pack it in.  This is really getting bad.  Remember:  these are the best retailers GM could find.  How bad must it be for the bottom tier guys with Chevy and BPG stores?

Saturn of Northwest Arkansas closing article:  * HERE *

and

Saturn of Stockton closing article:  *HERE*

Here is a copy of the letter I got from the Saturn General Manager, Jill Lajdziak.  She actually believes that Saturn can and will survive.  I hope so but……..

Dear Charles:

Saturn owners have never been shy about sharing their thoughts regarding our brand. So when I wrote to you a couple of weeks ago to tell about the potential changes at Saturn, I knew that I would get a strong response.

Your e-mails and phone calls showed that many of you share our enthusiasm for the idea that Saturn might return to its roots as an independent company. The thoughtful comments were a clear reminder of one of the things that has always made Saturn special. We have great retailers and vehicles, but it is the loyalty of Saturn owners that has always set us apart from other brands.

A few owners expressed concern regarding Saturn’s warranty and potential service needs going forward. Be assured, there is absolutely no change in the new vehicle warranty for any Saturn vehicles. Saturn has always been a brand you can trust, and your vehicle’s Saturn warranty is absolutely safe and sound, now and well into the future. The quality of our products is the bedrock of our business. GM has been in business for 100 years and is planning to be in business for the next 100 years and beyond. GM and Saturn have always taken care of our customers and stood behind our products — and we will continue to do so.

Many of you also asked, “What can I do to help Saturn?” That’s easy. You can proudly promote Saturn’s fresh lineup of award-winning, fuel-efficient vehicles—most of which lead their class in highway fuel economy. Also, convey your passion for the brand by sharing with your friends and families the great service you’ve received from your Saturn retailer. By becoming an advocate, you possess tremendous power in helping us spread the word that Saturn is a brand people can trust.

Finally, please know Saturn remains committed to continuing to do what we do best—delivering outstanding customer service. And rest assured we are working diligently to try to secure a viable plan for Saturn’s future. Saturn made history when it launched as a Different Kind of Car Company and revolutionized the car-buying and ownership experience. So, it’s no wonder then that Saturn would face today’s economic challenges head-on. It’s in the face of adversity that remarkable innovations are born. It’s time to make history once again.

I’ll be sending you updates as needed, and you can also visit ImSaturn.com to get all the latest Saturn-related information. Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Another Saturn retailer has had enough.  Saturn of Tyler has closed its doors.

I am sure there are many more to follow.

See the story * HERE *

So GM announced that they are looking to spin Saturn off into its own orbit. 

I just don’t see this working!

Saturn had the best of both worlds when it launched in the early 90’s.  It had GM’s money, design teams, facilities, and people.  But it had almost total independence!  Saturn could do what it wanted.  A great customer experience when you called the assistance center?  Sure!  There were thousands of people working in Spring Hill, TN who were focused on doing the right things.  An easy warranty system?  Absolutely!  The Service Mangers in each of the Saturn facilities had the approval to do just about anything to take care of a customer.

So what happened?  What happened was that Saturn did not get the product it should have gotten in the late 90’s.  It should have been first with a small SUV to compete with the Japanese and Koreans.  It should have gotten a midsize car that was not an over engineered hunk of metal and plastic. 

But the problem was that Saturn never made money for GM.  It was a black hole that money kept pouring into but never generated an profits!  Ok, there was one quarter back in 1994 that had an operating profit but Saturn has never come close to paying back the original (and subsequent) investment that GM has laid into it.

Do I want Saturn to survive?  Sure.  I own two Saturns that I want to be worked on by people who know what they are doing.  I also want them to survive to show everyone who has said that the money GM spent on Saturn was a total waste. 

Will they survive?  I doubt it.  All Saturn has going for it is a great retailer network.  But without the cars to sell or a company that has enough raw dollars to adverise, market and promote the products, Saturn will go the way of Oldsmobile, Studebaker, Packard, Nash, and so many more that all had their moment in the spotlight but eventually lost out because of so many reasons.

Long live Saturn in our hearts and minds.

GMInsidenews.com is reporting that Saturn will indeed die, similar to Oldsmobile.

Very sad…..

Here is the story: *Saturn Reportedly Dead*

Here are two more Saturn retailers that have decided to call it quits.  It has to be an awful decision to build a business and then, because of things that are out of your control, have to shut them down.

GM, you chose Saturn retailers very carefully.  I can’t believe you are just letting them die on the vine.

Full story is * HERE *

Unfortunately, another Saturn retailer has closed.

Saturn of Gwinnett closed up shop on Saturday.  They have a message when you call that says they are closed and will not reopen.  If you have a car there, leave a message and they will make arrangements to get it back to you.

It is really too bad.  I spent 7 years there, about half the time the store was open.  I think the blame is really on GM.  Gwinnett was a great location, good traffic, near the mall.  Location, Location, Location.  The products and advertising really failed them.  That is too bad.  Some really good people are now looking for work.  I know they will be ok.

A link to the video on WSB-TV:  * VIDEO *

A link to the AJC : * AJC STORY *

A link to the Gwinnett Daily Post story:  * Gwinnett Daily Post Story *

I have heard that there are several Saturn Retailers who are quite upset with GM and Saturn for the current state of their business.  Here is a story of one Retailer who is just trying to survive and The General is having issues with him!  And this particular Retailer has been one of Saturn’s shining stars for a long time.

See the story * HERE *

Looks like GM has promised that Saturn may exist until 2012 or 2013.  I can’t imagine how they are going to be able to compete with VERY outdated product.  I think GM is still trying to starve out it’s retailers so there are not so many to pay off when the brand goes to Oldsmobile-heaven.

Check out the story:  * Stay of Execution *

What really gets me about this is how this dude drove home with the dead guy LODGED in his back window and did not know he was there!  At least we have another Saturn owner off the road!

Check out the story ** HERE **

Following is a link to a website called ForeverSaturn.  It is by a very passionate Saturn owner/employee.  Check it out for yourself.

GM has not been committed to the Saturn brand for many years, if ever.  The leadership at GM now are folks who worked for Chevy and Oldsmobile when the Saturn concept was being hatched.  They all wanted GM marketing, manufacturing and engineering dollars for themselves.  Now that they have the chance, they will kill Saturn just to show it was a mistake.

Click here:    ** Forever Saturn **

You just have to laugh when thieves get caught because they did something stupid.  Not only did the thief get run over twice by the get-away car, but also dropped a personal check at the scene. 

C’mon!  If you are gonna put in the time to figure out how to steal from someone, do it right!

Story follows * HERE *

I haven’t posted in awhile because I found myself out of a job just before Thanksgiving.  Wouldn’t you think that would have made it easier to blog rather than harder???

Anyway, there has been alot going on in regards to Saturn over the past couple of months.  There were two stories that came out today that have very different views on the future of Saturn.

Will GM keep Saturn as is, sell it (though I don’t know what there is to sell or who would buy it), or just close it down.

My opinion:  They will shut it down and tell the retailers “sorry, we tried” and move on with the rest of their business.

Here are both articles:  *Eliminate*  or *Keep It*
You decide!!!

The eco-friendly crossover is set to make headlines again, this time at the SEMA Auto Show in Las Vegas.  General Motors will present a modified version of the Saturn VUE Hybrid developed together with Sound Choice and Performance.

Full story and picture at ** LINK **

Looks like the 2-mode hybrid VUE will be a reality.

Here is a great article from someone who has driven it.  A V6 with hybrid technology.  AWESOME!!!

Check it out at ** VUE 2-Mode Hybrid **

Watch for a new series from CBS!

It will follow four female friends who head off on adventures inspired by classic novels, reaching far-flung destinations in their Saturn vehicles.

Check out the whole story ** Saturn and CBS **

I found another good ASTRA review.  If Saturn would just promote this car a little, I think there would be lots of people interested in it.  Unfortunately, we are still in the “If you build it, he will come” advertising black-out.

Check out the article from “TireKicker” here:  * ASTRA Review *

Great Balls of Fire! 

What really amazes me about this story is that they actually used the word “fire”.  I kinda expected “thermal event” or “rapid conflagration” or even “heat related incident”. 

The notices to VUE owners should go out sometime in October.

See the whole story at this ** LINK **

I love when there is good news about our vehicles…..especially ones that I own!  The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has named the Saturn OUTLOOK (and it’s siblings) a top safety pick.

Check out more from ConsumerReports.org at this  ** LINK **

As you may have heard, the VTi transmissions Saturn used in the VUE and ION have always had problems.  Well, looks like there is some relief for those who have had (or will have) problems. 

Saturn’s official position:

Media Coverage on Preliminary Class Action Settlement

Jill Lajdziak

09/12/2008

You may have seen press coverage regarding the preliminary approval of a class action settlement involving certain Saturn vehicles.  The vehicles involved are model year 2002-2005 VUEs and 2003-2004 IONs all equipped with VTi transmissions.  The preliminary settlement calls for GM to notify all affected owners of the terms within the next 90 days.  The court-approved notice will be sent by U.S. mail and will contain the settlement details and instruct owners on any steps they need to take to participate.

In brief, the settlement calls for GM to reimburse eligible owners for VTi-related repairs within the following guidelines:

New vehicle owners at less than 100,000 miles = 100%

New vehicle owners at 100,001 – 125,000 miles = 75%

Used vehicle owners at less than 100,000 miles = 75%

Used vehicle owners at 100,001 – 125,000 miles = 30%

We need to stress that the settlement is not final.  The court will hold a fairness hearing in February of 2009 to determine if it will issue final approval for the settlement.  All eligible owners will be advised if the settlement is approved and how they can participate following the February hearing.

Wonder of wonders, the ASTRA is too expensive??  Of course it is!  Here is an article from AutoBlog.com with comments from Bob Lutz….  Very Telling!

Story at ** ASTRA Too Expensive! **

We have some great products:  SKY, AURA, ASTRA, OUTLOOK, and VUE.  Problem is that no one knows we have them.  We are still thought of as a car company that has small cars.  Saturn and GM’s role should be to build our brand as one of, not just a small car, but a great buying experience with cars and SUV’s for many tastes. 

The customers we have had for the ASTRA (a great car!) have either been people who have been driving an ION (and want a small car and to also stay with Saturn) or people who have either lived or visited Europe and know that the ASTRA is a great car.  The advertising for the ASTRA has been non-existent.  The only ad we have even seen is cartoon-y and actually shows the vehicle being “launched” by a pinball plunger! 

Saturn retailers are the best in the industry when it comes to taking care of our customers.  We spend more time and money on training our new team members that anyone else.  When we have confusing and convoluted incentives and interest rates (cash plus rate, cash and no rate, rate and no cash, alternative APR’s) our customers and team members aren’t sure which is the “right” deal.  Keep things simple. 

People do not buy Saturns because we are part of GM.  In fact, they buy Saturns in spite of the fact that we are GM.  The Employee Pricing for Everyone is a great promotion.  Problem is that no one cares about GM’s 100 year anniversary (except for GM).  GM is not a brand.  There is no vehicle that is a “GM” badged vehicle.  People don’t buy from General Motors.  They buy from Saturn, Pontiac, Buick, et al.  If you ask someone who has an AURA, they will not say they drive a GM car.  They will say they drive a Saturn.  GM won’t even come up in the conversation.  Why then do we spend millions of dollars advertising an event that people can’t wrap their arms around??

Give us whatever promotions, advertising, or incentives you want to.  At the end of the day, it comes down to 2 things:  a product people want and a buying and ownership experience people can enjoy.  GM can take care of the product.  Saturn retailers can take care of the rest.   

From the movie “Field of Dreams” the line was ‘If you build it, he will come’.  We have been hanging our hats on that for years!  Fast forward to the next line in the movie, ‘Go the distance’.  We can’t only run the first 50 meters of a 100 meter race and expect to win.  We have to run the entire race with the same strength, power, enthusiasm, and focus that we started with. 

GO THE DISTANCE!

FINISH THE RACE!

Saturn has announced Employee Pricing for Everyone again!

It will begin on Wednesday August 20 and runs through September 2, 2008.  It is on all 2008 Saturns including the OUTLOOK, AURA, VUE, ASTRA, and SKY.  It is also available on the Hybrids (if you can find one!)

Will it get extended??  We’ll see.  This should be a great traffic builder!

Stop in to Saturn of Decatur and check it out!!!

I have just topped 2000 miles on my 2008 Saturn ASTRA.

I have been really trying with this last tankfull to get the best mileage I can get:  coasting when I can, shutting off the engine at lights I know will take several minutes and not running the AC if I can help it.

The result:  I have gotten 32.4 miles per gallon with a pretty even mix of highway and city driving!

In today’s Wall Street Journal, there is an interesting article about GM’s future and specifically the future of Saturn.

“GM recently froze development work on a new Saturn Aura sedan, the brand’s flagship model, while management reviews whether it makes sense to continue investing in the division, people familiar with the matter said. Scrapping work on the next Aura would be an acknowledgment that a recent brand makeover has been a bust.”

Check out the rest of the story ** LINK **

The 2008 VUE, AURA, & OUTLOOK have been added to the latest list from Consumer Guide.  The OUTLOOK has been named a “Best Buy” and the VUE and AURA are on their “Recommended” list.

Check out the stories here:   ++ VUE ++ and ** OUTLOOK ** and == AURA ==

Here is a great article showing just how committed Saturn of Northwest Indiana is to its local area.

Full story at **LINK**

Here are some sites that I have come across that specialize in Saturn. Saturn accessories, warranties, parts, and general information.

Saturn Accessories: http://www.saturnaccessories.com/

Saturn Extended Warranties: http://www.saturnextendedwarranty.com/

Saturn Auctions: http://www.saturnplace.com/

As expected, the “72 Hour Sale” becomes the 144 hour sale.  0% for up to 72 months on 2008 VUE, AURA, and SKY has been extended through July 7th.  I know there are very few 4 cylinders left out there in the AURA and VUE but with no interest for the life of the loan, the V6 in both models is a great deal!

Now is the time to buy!!!

Remember this thing???

Here is a story from GM Inside News (gminsidenews.com) about the upcoming 2010 Saturn AURA.  This seems to be a very odd thing to happen.

Full Story at **LINK**

From CNNMoney.com:

“Voted “Car of the Year” at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show shortly after it was introduced, the Aura is truly deserving of all the accolades it’s gotten.”

Story Continued:  **HERE**.

Saturn has announced 0% for 72 months on the 2008 AURA, VUE, and SKY. (not including hybrids).

This is the 72 hour sale and it lasts until June 30th.

Now is the time!!!!

A great article from USA Today about the ASTRA.

Check it out here: Read Article.

So, what is Saturn’s future? I don’t have any real idea, but it is a bit disconcerting when we have no advertising at all for our only “small” car.

Also, all of our cars and trucks have siblings within GM. That just means that if GM shuts down Saturn tomorrow, there would be no loss of production: The AURA becomes the Malibu. The OUTLOOK becomes the Traverse, Acadia, or Enclave. The ASTRA just stays in Europe. The SKY just becomes another Solstice. And the VUE becomes a GMC.

If you were a business owner and one of your products was consistantly losing hundreds of millions of dollars a year, wouldn’t you try something?? Even if it was wrong, try something.

I am just venting, I guess but it seems like we had a pretty good thing going (even though we weren’t profitable).

Check out this story about a guy who tried to run down a cop in his Saturn.  Can a 2004 Saturn really be considered a deadly weapon??  Most of it is plastic!!

Story at link:  http://www.mercurynews.com/breakingnews/ci_9606213?nclick_check=1

Saturn has decided to drop the GreenLine moniker for its hybrids.

Check out the story here: http://wot.motortrend.com/6256971/auto-news/saturn-dropping-green-line-hybrid-model-name/index.html

Here are some links to both Fortune and Forbes articles that have run recently regarding Saturn.  Most are not at all positive. 

Will Saturn survive?  Will GM shut it down or will it just starve it?  And not starving it of product but of promotion.  Time will tell!

Notice in some of the older articles, the mood of the story is the same as today……. somber!

http://money.cnn.com/2008/04/30/news/companies/gm.fortune/index.htm

http://money.cnn.com/2008/04/08/news/companies/taylor_gm.fortune/index.htm

http://www.forbes.com/opinions/2008/05/16/gm-saturn-chrysler-oped-cx_jf_0516flint.html

http://www.forbes.com/business/2003/01/01/cz_jf_0101flint.html

http://www.forbes.com/vehicles/2002/06/17/0617test.html

http://www.forbes.com/business/2006/10/31/autos-detroit-saturn-biz-cx_jh_1101saturn.html

http://www.forbes.com/outfront/forbes/2001/0108/058.html

http://www.forbes.com/business/forbes/2005/0919/151.html

http://www.forbes.com/columnists/2004/08/17/cz_jf_0817flint.html