2008 Saturn SKY

NEW FOR 2008:

- StabiliTrak electronic stability control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, tire pressure monitoring system and limited-slip differential standard on all models

- Base radio upgraded

- Exterior colours: Techno Grey replaces Silver Graphite

Now in its second model year, the Saturn Sky receives upgrades for 2008. A sister to the Pontiac Solstice, the Sky is available in a regular or Red Line version.

The base Sky carries a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, while the Red Line uses a direct-injection 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder. Both mate to a five-speed manual that can be optioned to a five-speed automatic.

Both come with a manual cloth top that includes a premium acoustic headliner and glass rear window with electric defogger.

Features on the base Sky include 18-inch painted aluminum wheels, air conditioning, fog lamps, power mirrors, speed-sensitive variable intermittent wipers, cruise control, power locks with keyless entry, driver information centre, floor mats, leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls and tilt column, power windows, cloth seats, CD/MP3 stereo, automatic headlamps and OnStar.

The Red Line adds 18-inch polished aluminum wheels with summer performance tires, unique Red Line fascia, metallic sport pedals, sport suspension and XM Satellite Radio.

While it's a big car for a roadster, the Sky feels much smaller, with nimble steering and a very stiff chassis. The base engine is fine for boulevard cruising, especially with the five-speed manual, but enthusiasts will prefer the turbocharged Red Line.

Working against the Sky's favour is an awkward and time-consuming top that requires trips in and out of the vehicle to put up and down, and almost no storage space, with just a couple of small cubbies and a trunk that's taken up almost entirely with the fuel tank and offers just a small trench for stuffing in soft-sided objects. Still, if you want good looks, a drop top and fun driving at a reasonable price, the Sky is a viable contender.