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Tell me what you want

I was in Atlanta last week, where I talked with focus groups about the Astra. I always enjoy getting out of our headquarters to meet Saturn retailers and customers and to hear about how they use and relate to our cars every day. But I also realize we have a group of more than 2,900 passionate customers right here on ImSaturn.

So let me take advantage of this virtual focus group and ask you all: What would you like to see in our lineup of cars and crossovers? A particular color? A particular type of vehicle? More seating? More hybrids? More cupholders? And how do you have suggestions for the retailer experience?

I can’t promise we’ll act on all your comments and suggestions, but I can promise we will look at them all. I’d really like to hear from every one of you. Thanks.

Jill

P.S. If you have a specific idea for a device or invention for Saturn or other GM product, please use the submission form on gm.com.

85 Comments

Comment by Cole Fawcett on August 28, 2008 at 1:48pm: I want a Saturn Corsa, and a better paint job on my Astra so it doesn't chip so badly.

Comment by bdubsee on August 28, 2008 at 3:32pm: Hello Jill,

Thank you for asking! I have a three year old and one year old daughter and we are planning on one more. I would really love a mid-size station wagon ala Opel Insignia Touring. It needs to be wide enough for three across in the rear seat, a stroller and other gear plus it has be good looking, be enjoyable drive and get 30 MPG+. I want something that looks like I chose it because I like it, not like I had to pick an appliance. Kind of like an Aura wagon.

I also appreciate a flexible box. Something along the lines of the Mazda5 and Opel Meriva are very intriguing. I will not drive a truck or any vehicle in excess of 4,000 lbs.

Here is my quick list: Seating for 2 adults, 3 children, requisite gear, good looking, fun to drive, not overly large, fuel efficient, SAFE and environmentally responsible.

I guess I need to mention money here as well. If money was no object I would have already put my deposit down on a 2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon - it is absolutely stunning and meets my needs and wants but is out of my price range. It will be a number of years before I can afford this. It would be nice to see a similar package in $25k - 30k range.

Finally, the car must be well built. My '07 Aura is a beautiful design but I am so embarrassed by the execution of a number of details on the interior (door panels, IP alignment, degrading finished surfaces) and nagging front suspension noise that I no longer show it off or feel good about the car. It's not so bad that I share with my circle (I have a lot of influence with them in the area of autos), but I also can't recommend it.

Cheers,
Brian

Comment by Chris Guido on August 28, 2008 at 3:32pm: Isn't the 20th Anniversary of Saturn comming up?
For the 2011 model year , maybe a few limited editions of the Sky and Aura
in Pearl White with the Saturn badging in black. Unless Saturn has other ideas ?

Comment by Sam on August 28, 2008 at 4:50pm: I have been driving saturns since 1993 when I got a 1994 SC2. I am now on my number 5 which is a Sky that I have had for two years and driven for 30,000 miles.
I would like to see another Home Coming.

Comment by Jeff on August 28, 2008 at 8:24pm: I just purchased my first Saturn––a 2008 Saturn Astra. I love this car because the materials are top notch, it handles like I'm riding on rails, and it feels solid. The only things I would suggest would be to (1) Make XM an option on the Astra, as I had to install a separate XM receiver and (2) keep bringing over the Opel products. It's the only GM division I would ever buy a car from, and it's because of Opel. When comparing an Astra's interior to that of a Cobalt, it's easy to see why.

Comment by Terry Fike on August 28, 2008 at 9:55pm: I have a 2008 Astra XR3.... Wonderful car!! materials are top notch and so is fit and finish.. This is my favorite car I have ever owned... Please keep bringing over the Opel... As long as you do I will continue to purchase them.. These cars are superior to anything that GM has over here...

But here is my wish list for the Astra..

iPod jack.. this is something even the ion had..
Bluetooth and Navigation..
Color Screen for the info center..
A powerful motor with better gas mileage.. Or better yet a diesel and turbo option
A five speed auto and six speed standard transmissions
VXR or OPC option for the states with the body kits..

I just want what they have in Europe here in the states if possible..I have gotten a taste of it with my Astra and I want more..

Thanks,

Terry Fike

Comment by Jeff on August 28, 2008 at 10:07pm: 1)Opel Insignia looks very nice...it would be great to bring it over to the states..like what was shown at the London Auto show.

2)Bring over the Astra Red Line over. This seems to be a consensus of some of the people that I've conversed with on car forums, that are familiar with the Astra; they wish it had more power. 2a)Some of the other versions..specifically the sedan might be more suited to American tastes and ergonomics (although I love the 3 door as is). 2b)Ipod connectivity was one of the comments of a friend of mine.

3)Marketing..marketing..marketing. I stopped at a coffee shop to meet a friend. 2 women sitting outside absolutely loved it,but had never heard of the Astra. In fact one of them might have gone to buy one after seeing mine.

Otherwise..keep 'em coming. I'm thankful for the new direction that Saturn has taken. Thank you for bringing this wonderful car over here. Jeff.

Comment by Gord888 on August 28, 2008 at 10:21pm: Anything to compete in the B-car market with the Yaris, Aveo, Fit, and upcoming Mazda 2. I'm all for the Astra, but it's just too much car for my needs. Moreover, everyone is asking for the Corsa. So cut through the red tape, draw up a business case, and bring some in before you miss out on all the people switching off SUVs!

Regarding the dealer experience... my Saturn dealership in mississauga is great. fyi... Jim at saturn of mississauga should get an award.

Comment by DJDementia on August 28, 2008 at 10:27pm: I currently have an '02 SC1 and an '06 ION3. What I love about both of these cars is the rear 1/2 door. I was sad to see it go, although I do love the styling of the Astra. When it comes time to replace one of my Satties, my dream would be an Astra Red Line in yellow with rear 1/2 doors. Obviously I don't expect that to happen but I'll continue to dream.

Comment by Russ on August 28, 2008 at 11:18pm: Stop de-contenting cars! The removal of the "quiet" laminated front glass, body-side protective molding and elimination of the adjustable pedals on the Aura cost you 1 sale this week - a friend of mine who was waiting to get a 2009 Aura XE with 2.4L 4 cylinder (33 mpg), black leather and adjustable pedals. He really liked my 2008 Aura XE 2.4L when I got it in May, but was waiting for the 2009 with 2.4L, 6 speed auto, stabili-trac, leather and adjustable pedals for his wife. But the lack of adjustable pedals and (in his opinion) increased noise without the laminated glass has him back looking at the Camry and Altima. He is not too keen on the Malibu's styling. Bad business decision on Saturn's part.