The LS, Saturn's larger, midsize sedan than competes with Accord and Camry, enters its second year with a few upgraded safety features and minor changes. Curtain-type front and rear airbags (optional) provide added head protection, and this year's model has a larger, 15.7-gallon, fuel tank. The LS and LW powered by either a base 135-hp, 2.2-liter four-cylinder or an optional 182-hp, 3.0-liter V-6. The four-cylinder engine is available with manual or automatic transmission, however the V-6 is available only with the automatic. Most of the body panels on the LS are dent-free plastic, as with Saturn's smaller S-Series. Saturn's L-Series has sold particularly poorly in its first year, so you may be able to find deals. The LW wagons are two of the few American-built wagons left on the market, although it appears that wagons are finally making a comeback. The LW doesn't have much competition near its size and price class, except for the Volkswagen Passat. It's an extremely versatile vehicle and offers the cargo flexibility of an SUV without compromises in roadholding, ride, and fuel economy. LS and LW models are made in Wilmington, Delaware, rather than at Saturn's famed Spring Hill, Tennessee, facilities.
SL/SW
Saturn's ageing compact sedan models now feature an available, curtain-style head-protective airbag system as optional, and basics like power steering and right-side mirror are now standard on the base SL. Saturn has redesigned the instrument panel and some controls, although the models carry on with no significant mechanical changes. SL and SL1 models feature an eight-valve, 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 100 hp, while upmarket SL2 models have a more modern sixteen-valve, 1.9-liter engine that makes 124 hp. The S-Series wagon, which offers impressive cargo space, is only available in the more expensive SW2 trim.
SC
For 2001, Saturn's sporty coupes are given an exterior-appearance freshening, and new front head curtain airbags are optional. The SC coupes, available in SC1 and SC2 trim, share virtually most features with the SL sedans, although a slightly stiffer suspension setup gives the coupes more impressive handling. The SC1 model features a 100-hp 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine, while the SC2 has a 124-hp, double-overhead-cam version. Both models are available with either a four-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The coupes continue to have an optional, driver-side, third "suicide" door to ease access to the rear seat, a unique feature in its class.
;)
