2002 Saturn S-Series

Pros: Engine and Transmission
Cons: Interior quality, Road Noise

I have recently purchased a 2002 Saturn SL2 w/ approx. 40,000 mi and have found myself comparing it to a previously owned car, a 2003 Toyota Corolla, both with automatic transmitions. The Corolla had all the options. Power everything, moonroof, alloys the works. The Saturn has manual everything, steel wheels, and the good ol' AM/FM reciever. In most departments the Corolla wins out. Ride quality and noise levels are far superior in the Toyota. In handling I'd rate them about the same, but I do remember the Toyota being pretty tight. The Saturn engine feels stronger, but I drove the Corolla at altitude in Colorado and the Saturn is at sea-level so I'd rate them about equal. Interior quality hands down goes to Toyota.

Now, if you're used to driving a stick, or find yourself constantly at odds with your automatic's choice in gear, driving the Saturn SL2 is a revelation. It's like the car reads my mind. No more sudden surges without warning, or constant shifting up and down. Just smooth consistent power on demand. On that strength alone, I find I enjoy driving the Saturn more than the Toyota. It's all about what you're looking for.

Pros: Great stock stereo , roomier than expected
Cons: Gas milege not what it should be and not enough power

If the goal of your purchase is to have function and reliablity this is the car for you. There a few other positives that I can give this car, the stock stereo is has great sound and the amount of room this car is a bit shocking. This car however cannot even get out it's own way. It very slow in response and sure to disappoint. I found the car much cuter when I purchased it and it wore on me quickly. I found the gas milege to be much worse than expected , in today's market this is an important factor. There were also odd things that broke on this car when I had it. My ignition key wore down over time and ceased to start the car. I got stuck 100 miles away from home with car that would not start because the key fell apart at two years old. When the car was two months old the gas cap would not pop open and I had to get the saturn hotline to send me someone to open it so I could get home, I was once again stranded.

Pros: Cheap, stylish little car!
Cons: Accelaration is a little weak.

I bought my 2002 Saturn SL1 because my Ford Escort was going through tie-rods like crazy. I really like it. At first, I thought it felt a little cheap. But it grew on me. It's a 5spd manual, and it shifts sooooo smoothly. It has awesome gas mileage, great styling, and it's roomy. I don't think I'll hesitate to buy another Saturn some day.

Pros: Mileage, price, reliability
Cons: Seats, you have to climb out of them, especially the back seats!!

Before I bought my Saturn SL1, I had a used Toyota which was in dire need of repairs...that I couldn't afford, so when it died, I needed a car fast!! It wasn't that I liked the car (actually I'd never heard of it), but they were the only dealership that I visited that would let me buy. It's an automatic, manual windows (horrors!! when the person is on the other side!!) The seats left much to be desired,within a week they made my back hurt. I found that they made me slump, so I had to buy a cushion, it was a godsend. Overall, the car has been nothing but dependable. I make sure its regularly maintained. My warranty is up so I get it done locally because Saturn is no longer in Stamford, CT and the closest is in White Plains,NY. I'd by another one (if I could afford to).

Pros: Fuel economy, cheap price, sporty look.
Cons: Depreciation, room, lackluster interior.

I was first very hesitant going from a V8 Camaro down to a 4 cylinder Saturn, but it was the best choice I ever made. With rising fuel costs my Saturn has saved me tons at the pump. I can actually afford to drive places with my SC2. My car is very reliable, the only problem so far (knock on wood) would be with my sunroof that I have gotten fixed three times, twice they replaced the whole motor. Other than that I have had no other problems. I love the dent resistant body, really helps out when parking in crowded places. The interior is rather plain but not too bad. My wood trim really compliments the black interior with black leather. The pick-up is not the best, but what do you expect from a 4-cylindar? You have to choose between great performance or great gas-mileage, As of right now you cannot have both. All in all I am very happy with my SC2. Great car for a college student!

Pros: Good safety, reliability & fuel economy. Polymer side panels & fenders.
Cons: Engine noise, when accelerating & at freeway speeds.

Purchased a used SL2 for our son from our local Saturn Dealership. It is basic, no power anything or cruise control. It has a auto trans and had 63,000 miles on it when purchased. The car is in excellent condition. The "service engine soon" light came on after driving it a couple of weeks. Saturn Dealership made all of the necessary repairs, new thermostat, spark plugs and wires, at no cost to us. Car runs fine since this repair. Put about 1000 miles on it, since purchased and has not used any oil (a trait of the 1.9 liter 4 cylinder Saturn engines). Not a lot of power off the line but, climbs hills well and decent acceleration for passing and fuel mileage, 33 mpg hwy and 26 mpg city.

Pros: dependability, handling in turns and inclement weather, economic, comfort, trunk space, low pressure dealership
Cons: limited leg room for tall people, low to the ground, exiting hard with bad knees

I have a Saturn LS '02 sedan, manual transmission, which gets 35-40 mpg hwy, 32-36 mpg city (depending on where I fill up and how I drive that week). I've never had a bit of trouble. It has always started, never broke down. After 93,000 miles I opted to have a belt replaced which I was told would eventually need replacing, but was good for another 10,000 miles at least, and I get new front tires every 2 years. It's comfortable for most anyone - a little tight for those over 6'(my husband). It accelerates responsively, handles well in snow, and hangs securely in the turns. I have owned Chevy, Acura, Datsun, Saab, Plymouth, Dodge cars and my next car will be another Saturn, I am that satisfied!