You need not be able to tell a rocker arm from a rocking chair to appreciate the new Saturns, which add a few more estimated miles per gallon to their above-average fuel economy ratings. Saturns come as sedans, station wagons and coupes derived from the sedan. The SL2 model I drove is the top-line sedan. The crisp-shifting manual works with a clutch that has a light action but a long throw that is tiresome in traffic. Also, the driveline becomes jerky if a driver doesn't shift gears properly at lower speeds.
Acceleration is lively with the higher horsepower engine.
It revs at a rather high 2,800 rpm at 65 mph but sounds relaxed at that speed. The solid feeling SL2 is fun to drive. It only weighs about 2,400 pounds and has quick steering and an all-independent suspension with fairly wide tires. So it's nimble and handles adroitly. The ride is pleasant but gets a little floaty on bumpy pavement.