2005 Saturn L300

The Saturn L-Series moves toward a segment leadership position with its high-content and high-value product strategy for 2004. These changes help make L300 sedans and wagons, more than ever, a smart choice.
As part of this strategy, all 2004 sedans and wagons will be badged L300.
'We increased the number of standard features and safety equipment on all trim levels in order to provide a vehicle that delivers great value, as well as a very compelling safety story,' said Dan Anderson, L300 marketing manager.




Also standard across all 2004 models are features such as heated outside rearview mirrors, driver's seat adjustable lumbar, rear-seat armrest, floor mats, dual lit vanity mirrors, and front- and rear-seat reading lamps.

As part of the move toward a simplified product offering, the manual transmission is eliminated, making a Hydra-Matic four-speed electronic automatic transmission standard on all models.



With the DVD system, back-seat passengers can view a movie on a fold-down, 7-inch (178-mm) LCD screen. Equipped with remote control and dual wireless headphones, the rear passengers can listen to CDs or watch a movie. The front-seat passengers can either listen to the DVD program or to the car's regular audio system.

OnStar is the nation's leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services using the Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite network and wireless technology. OnStar Safe & Sound services include accident assist, automatic notification of air-bag deployment, emergency services dispatch, stolen vehicle location, remote door unlock, roadside assistance and remote diagnostics.

Powertrain
The Saturn L300 continues to offer the choice of two advanced, dual-overhead camshaft engines. Standard on the base level L300 is GM's global Ecotec 2.2L inline four-cylinder. For 2004, horsepower has been increased to 140 hp (104 kw) at 5600 rpm (from 135 hp/101 kw at 5600 rpm), and torque has been increased to 150 lb.-ft. (203 Nm) at 4000 rpm (from 142 lb.-ft./193 Nm at 4400 rpm). The Ecotec engine provides an excellent blend of performance, fuel economy and low maintenance. On the mid- and uplevel L300, the 3.0L V-6 provides 182 hp (136 kw) at 5600 rpm and 184 lb.-ft. of torque (249 Nm) at 3600 rpm.

The L300 retains the European-type handling that customers in this segment appreciate. Four-wheel independent suspension with four-link rear suspension contributes to precise handling, with a high level of refinement. The steering system has been tuned to enhance road feel at highway speeds, and also to help block out road harshness. Shock and strut valving are tuned to make the ride smoother over rough surfaces.

Solid structure
The L300 structure is a unique modified space frame that surrounds the passengers with a rugged steel safety cage, while computer-designed crush zones front and rear help absorb the energy of a crash. Both the sedan and wagon also feature Saturn's dent-resistant polymer fenders and doors, which help keep Saturns looking new, longer.

Inside, the L300 features a spacious interior with logical, easy-to-use controls. Seats have been designed for all-day comfort. The sedan features one of the largest trunks in its class at 17.5 cubic feet (496L), while the wagon features an easy-to-load cargo area and 79 cubic feet (2,018L) of room with the rear seats folded down - more than can be found in some sport utilities.

Continuous upgrades
The Saturn L300 has benefited from continuous upgrades since its introduction in the 2000 model year, providing customers more value for their money. For example, Saturn engineers have gone over every aspect of the L-Series structure, engine and passenger compartment in order to bring noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) to extremely low levels.

The L300 exterior presents a refined, stylish look, with available 16-inch wheels and tires adding a sporty touch while enhancing handling. The sophisticated interior environment includes upscale touches such as nickel finish trim plates in the center console and instrument panel, satin finish faceplates in the instrument cluster, upscale seat upholstery, auto projector beam headlamps and jewel-like taillamps.

Other uplevel features added since the initial L-Series include optional automatic climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and a six-disc in-dash CD changer with amplifier, sub-woofer and six premium speakers.

Safety enhancements to the L300 since its debut include the addition of automatic headlamps, the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child-seat restraint system, a center rear three-point seatbelt and a trunk entrapment release for the sedan. (concept carz)

Source - Saturn