As you consider purchasing a Saturn Sky, you’ll want to know which years to focus on and which to avoid. The data suggests that 2007-2009 models are your safest bet, with fewer reported issues and improvements in mechanical parts like the water pump. On the other hand, the 2006 model is plagued by transmission problems and faulty pumps. What’s behind these discrepancies, and how can you make an informed decision?
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Key Takeaways
- The Saturn Sky’s reliability concerns center around the water pump and synthetic oil changes, but GM still stocks major mechanical parts.
- The 2007-2009 models are considered the best years, with the 2007 model being the most sought-after due to its unique features.
- The 2008-2009 models saw some minor updates, but overall, the design and features remained consistent throughout the production run.
- The worst years are likely the 2006 model, which had some teething issues, and the 2010 model, which saw a decline in sales and production quality.
- A service contract is recommended to cover unexpected repairs, especially for owners who plan to keep their Sky for an extended period.
Reliability and Maintenance Concerns
While owning a Saturn Sky can be a thrilling experience, its reliability issues can’t be ignored.
The water pump is a major concern, costing around $1,500 to fix. On the bright side, costs aren’t significantly higher, with synthetic oil changes adding $40 and tires needing replacement every 2 years at $300.
GM still stocks major mechanical parts, including body panels, and parts are available for high-failure-rate parts, and a service contract is recommended to cover unexpected repairs.
Budget $100/month, excluding insurance and fuel, and consider having a practical fallback car in case of unexpected problems.
Ride & Handling
When you’re behind the wheel, you’ll appreciate the steering’s exceptional road feel, which provides a direct connection to the road.
The ride quality is also notable, with a slightly cushier feel compared to an ND Miata, despite being a tad too soft.
As you take corners, you’ll enjoy its flat rotation and responsive rotation thanks to its 95.1-inch wheelbase.
Steering Road Feel
You’ll appreciate the stunningly good steering, which sends an awesome amount of road feel up to your hands.
The rack’s zero slop and 2.7-turn rotation provide a direct connection to the road.
As you corner, the Saturn Sky’s 95.1-inch wheelbase helps it rotate nicely, making you feel in control.
The steering feels extremely solid and mechanical, although it lacks a bit of refinement you’d expect from a modern manual transmission car.
Ride Quality Softness
The Saturn Sky’s ride quality is great, but it comes with a caveat: the car is a little too soft, feeling slightly cushier than an ND Miata. This softness doesn’t hinder its handling, though – you’ll find the car corners flat and rotates very nicely thanks to its 95.1-inch wheelbase.
| Handling Aspect | Saturn Sky Performance |
|---|---|
| Cornering | Flat and smooth rotation |
| Steering | Stunning road feel, 2.7-turn lock-to-lock |
Drivetrain and Racing
You’ll find the Saturn Sky‘s drivetrain is built around a capable engine, with the LNF variant producing 260 horsepower and torque.
In racing circles, the platform has seen significant success, such as Ryan Tuerck’s 2008 Formula Drift Driver of the Year award and the Pontiac Solstice’s 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place sweep in the 2009 SCCA Club Racing National Championship Runoffs.
With these credentials, it’s clear the Sky’s drivetrain is more than just a means to get from point A to point B.
Engine Performance
Getting behind the wheel of a Saturn Sky, you’re greeted by the LNF engine’s 260 horsepower and torque identical to horsepower, all channeled to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission that feels extremely solid and mechanical, albeit a bit lacking in refinement one would expect from a modern manual transmission.
The turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec-based engine, added in 2007, brings standard ABS, sport suspension tuning, and limited-slip differential. With direct-injection and an intercooler, the Sky’s Performance Parts can be modified to achieve 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds and a quarter mile in 12.9 seconds.
Racing Achievements
Saturn Sky’s racing achievements are built on its robust drivetrain, which has been tweaked to release its full potential.
You’ll find the same Kappa platform and LSJ engine in the Pontiac Solstice and Chevy Cobalt SS.
Ryan Tuerck’s 500+ hp Solstice to win the 2008 Formula Drift.
The Solstice also took top honors in the 2006 SCCA Club Racing National Championship Runoffs, with the GXP model sweeping the top three spots in Touring 2.
The GXP repeated this feat in 2007 and took first and third in 2009, demonstrating the Saturn Sky‘s racing prowess.
Design and Features
The Saturn Sky’s design and features were heavily influenced by the Solstice concept, first revealed in 2002.
You’ll notice the car’s built on an all-new compact rear-wheel-drive platform, dubbed Kappa, similar to the Corvette.
The interior’s exciting, with more design than most GM products, featuring switchgear that feels premium.
The Solstice and Sky have distinct looks, with the Pontiac being curvaceous and muscular, while the Saturn is razor-sharp and edgy.
Production and Sales
As you examine the production and sales of the Saturn Sky, you’ll discover the Solstice’s instant popularity played a significant role in shaping GM’s production plans.
The Solstice’s 7,000 orders in the first 10 days, prompted General Motors to increase production, delivering 10,000 units by March 1.
The Saturn Sky’s first-year production was increased due to high demand, with 34,000 units manufactured.
Meanwhile, the Pontiac Solstice saw 64,000 convertibles and 1,200 coupes produced before its discontinuation in 2008.
This car line innovation ultimately led to its discontinuation, making it a sought-after model for refurbishers and restorers.
Ownership and General Information
You’ll find the Saturn Sky‘s ownership experience shaped by its unique blend of European-inspired design and American muscle.
As a GM product, the Sky shares parts and ownership characteristics with the Pontiac Solstice.
You’ll appreciate its hard top convertible design, turbo engine, and decent mpg.
As you look to the future, refurbishers will play a key role in maintaining the car’s availability.
With proper care, the Sky can be a reliable companion for years to come.
Parts and Availability
Saturn Sky owners can rely on a vast network of parts suppliers and dealerships, thanks to the model’s shared components with the Pontiac Solstice. You’ll find a wide range of spares, including side windows, to guarantee your Sky remains in top condition | Parts Availability | Notes |
| — | — | — |
|---|---|---|
| Intercooler Tubes | High | Crimps may raise questions parts availability going forward |
| Trim Items | Medium | Will definitely require acquisition of a few spares |
| Intercooler Swapout | Low | Capacity to shed heat may lead to bottlenecks for future refurbishers/restorers |
Practicality and Utility
Your search for a practical vehicle leads you to question the Sky’s utility.
Unfortunately, the Sky falls short. As a two-seater with a minuscule trunk, it’s unsuitable for recreational activities requiring equipment.
Cargo space is extremely limited, making it difficult for activities like camping, mountain biking, or skiing. You won’t be able to carry equipment for these activities, and the car’s limited trunk space makes it hard to accommodate your gear.
Its utility is limited, and it’s not suitable for those who require a car with cargo capacity.
Comparison to Other Brands
The roadster market offers a range of alternatives to the Saturn Sky, each with its strengths and limitations.
You’ll find the Pontiac Solstice, its GM sibling, sharing the same platform and mechanicals. The Chevy Cobalt, though not a direct competitor, shares some underpinnings.
The Mazda Miata, a more established roadster, offers a distinct driving experience.
When comparing the Saturn Sky to other GM cars, like the Chevy Colorado, you’ll notice different design priorities.
Ultimately, the Solstice/Sky duo offers a unique blend of performance, style, and affordability, making it a solid choice in the roadster market.
