2002 Saturn S-Series: Road Test
2002 Saturn S-Series ▼
- MSRP: $10,570 - $16,940
- Invoice: $9,619 - $14,738
Explore
Features & Specifications
Related to Saturn S-Series
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2002 Saturn S-Series includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Saturn S-Series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Saturn S-Series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Saturn S-Series help you decide if a 2002 Saturn S-Series is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 5 | 3.7 |
Only adequate with 100-hp engine. Slightly better than class norm with 124-hp twincam variant, which clocked 0-60 mph in 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. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.7 |
Test 5-speed SL2 averaged 22.4 mpg; test 5-speed SL1 averaged 28.9. Both engines use regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
Minor bumps are absorbed well, but rough roads cause abrupt, even harsh reactions.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 6 | 4.9 |
All Saturns corner with pleasing quickness and control, with the "2" models exhibiting the least body lean in turns. Simulated panic stops tended to prematurely lock front wheels of non-ABS test models, while ABS models swerved mildly from side to side.
QUIETNESS
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4 | 3.6 |
Base engine is gruff except in cruising; "2" models' 124-hp engine feels coarse and buzzy only at maximum rpm. Wind and road noise moderate.
CONTROLS
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Gauges easy to read. Smooth-working dials adjust climate controls, and radio buttons are close to driver. Overall visibility good in both models, though tail is too high to easily see straight back. Assembly is sound, but materials are run-of-the-mill at best.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4 | 4.4 |
Front leg room barely adequate for those over 6 ft. Welcome surprises include an adjustable center armrest on "2" versions. All models have beverage holders molded into front-door map pockets.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 3 | 3.2 |
Leg room tight in all. Sedans have limited head room; coupes have even less, but are roomier than many 2-dr subcompacts.
CARGO ROOM
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 3.3 |
Trunk space adequate in both coupe and sedan. Coupe's rear door is useful for loading cargo, but not adult passengers.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 4 | 4.7 |
Saturn won its following selling reliable small cars via a one-price strategy but has of late offered cut-rate lease deals and incentive financing to buoy sales. The design of the S-Series models shows its age, but dent- and rust-resistant composite body panels help these cars look "new" longer, and resale values are relatively strong.
Total Score
| SL1, man. | SC1, auto. | SL2, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 39 | 34 | 42 | 44.2 |
Total Score: 39
Scores for all Compact Cars
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
