2001 Saturn S-Series: Road Test
2001 Saturn S-Series ▼
- MSRP: $10,570 - $16,505
- Invoice: $9,619 - $14,359
Explore
Features & Specifications
Related to Saturn S-Series
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2001 Saturn S-Series includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Saturn S-Series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Saturn S-Series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Saturn S-Series help you decide if a 2001 Saturn S-Series is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 3.7 |
Only adequate with overhead-cam 4 cyl; slightly better than class norm with twincam variant, which clocked 0-60 mph in about 8.7 sec in our tests. Automatic transmission changes gears frequently, which helps performance but makes for jerky ride.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 6.8 |
A 5-speed SL2 we tested averaged 22.4 mpg; a 5-speed SL1 test car averaged a commendable 28.9 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.7 |
Minor bumps are absorbed well, but rough roads cause abrupt, even harsh reactions.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 4.2 |
The "2" models lean least in turns, but all these Saturns corner with pleasing quickness and control. Simulated panic stops tended to prematurely lock front wheels of non-ABS test models, while ABS models groaned loudly, swerved mildly from side to side.
QUIETNESS
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
Overhead-cam engine is gruff except during cruise; twincam engine feels coarse and buzzy only at maximum rpm. Wind and road noise moderate.
CONTROLS
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
Gauges easy to read, smooth-working dials adjust climate controls, and radio buttons are close to driver. Overall visibility good in any model, though tail is too high in sedans and coupes to easily see straight back.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4.3 |
Front leg room barely adequate for those over 6 feet. Welcome surprises include an adjustable center armrest on "2" versions, and, on all models, beverage holders in front-door map pockets.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3.1 |
Leg room is tight in all. Wagons have lots of head clearance; sedans are tighter. Coupes have even less head space, but are roomier than many 2-dr subcompacts.
CARGO ROOM
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 7 | 2 | 3.3 |
Most wagons are more spacious than SW2. Trunk space is adequate in coupes and sedans. Coupe's rear door is useful for loading cargo, but not adult passengers.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 5 | 4 | 4.6 |
Saturn won its following selling reliable small cars via a one-price strategy. S-Series models are due for a redesign, but dent- and rust-resistant composite body panels help them look "new" longer, and resale values remain relatively strong.
Total Score
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SW2, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 37 | 33 | 47 | 41 | 42.8 |
Total Score: 37
Scores for all Compact Cars
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
