GM created Saturn over two decades ago to do things differently than the status quo. The intent was for Saturn to compete with the Japanese imports. Little remains of the original Saturn infrastructure, as Saturn has become just another GM brand, sharing architectures and products with other divisions. GM has linked Saturn's current and future products to Opel bringing a European feel and sensibility to the American market.

One such new product is the all-new Saturn Astra. The Astra is a decidedly different compact car entry than its predecessor, the ION. Designed by Opel for the European market, Astra's are imported from Belgium. Offered in 3-door and 5-door models, all Astras are equipped with a 138-bhp 1.8L four-cylinder engine, and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. The Astra hatchbacks are a refreshing departure from the standard compact coupe/sedan formula employed elsewhere within GM's portfolio.

Another new product to come from the Opel/Saturn mold is the compact VUE SUV. The new VUE has changed very little in size, but now features a stylish exterior and interior that is a clean break from the plastic body-paneled VUEs of the past. The VUE range still includes a choice of FWD and AWD models powered by four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines. A Green Line hybrid version is still offered, as is the Red Line performance model. The newfound style and sophistication has come at a cost: pricing for the VUE is up about $3,000 across the board.

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Performance

For many, the way a car performs is a key criterion for which car to purchase. Our Velocity Index helps determine which vehicles are the best all-around performers taking in to consideration a balance of factors such as acceleration and handling.

For more information, view our new car performance guide.

What would we drive?

Based on our Velocity Index analysis, the 2008 Saturn Sky (Red Line) seems to provide a good trade-off between price and vehicle performance.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy has long been a key decision factor when buying a new vehicle. While the EPA estimates may accurately predict your mileage with a given vehicle, they are useful for broad comparisons of vehicles. Note that many trucks and large SUVS are too heavy to be required to specify their fuel economy.

For more information, view our new car fuel economy guide.

What's popular

Here are the five cars that draw the most attention from our readers.

• 2008 Saturn VUE
• 2008 Saturn Astra 3d
• 2008 Saturn Aura
• 2008 Saturn Astra 5d
• 2008 Saturn Outlook