In just a few days, Saturn will publicly unveil the 2008 Saturn Astra, the rebadged Opel that will be imported from Europe to replace the bizarre-looking Ion. In other markets, the Astra is available in a variety of body styles ranging from a four-door notchback sedan to a slick, sporty hardtop coupe/convertible. This is the part where we eat crow for predicting that GM would send over the notchback, because instead, they've chosen to send a pair of hatchbacks ( 3- and 5-door) to launch the model here in the States. The cars will target formidable competitors like the Mazda3 and VW Rabbit.

Saturn's new trim-level nomenclature is employed, with base XE and topline XR versions for the 5-door. The 3-door will be an XR-only vehicle. All Astras receive a 140-horsepower 1.8L Ecotec four-cylinder underhood, which is mated to a 5-speed manual or an optional 4-speed automatic. Fuel economy numbers aren't available yet, but should come out as the vehicle gets closer to production.


Aside from the obvious Saturn grille and markings, there's no visual difference between the Saturn version and its Opel twin. This is a good thing, because Astra's looks were never an issue. The 3-door XR with its optional 18" rims is particularly appealing to our eyes, though the practical 5-door shod in 17s is no slouch either (and will surely be a tempting morsel for buyers who have kids, dogs, carpool, etc.).

Inside, the full Euro interior is carried over, which makes for some interesting differences in that the GM corporate radio we're accustomed to seeing is replaced with the Opel unit. From the looks of things, the same tabbed display setup is carried over, only with a larger screen that's mounted high on the dash separate from the radio itself. The instrument cluster is attractive and well-organized, dominated by a large speedo and tach. The 3-spoke steering wheel is unique to Astra. The enclosed presskit photo shows the interior done in all grey, which truthfully makes it look really bland. We'd probably choose a lighter color if we were doing the buying.

In terms of amenities, there are many to choose from, including a two-panel sunroof for the 5-door, heated cloth or leather seats, 6 or 7-speaker audio systems, and wheel-mounted radio controls on the XR cars. A full complement of six airbags comes standard, too. We're looking very forward to getting up close and personal with the Astra at Chicago, and we'll bring you firsthand touch 'n feel impressions from the show floor as soon as the cars make their big debut.

We'll say this right now, though: the Ion won't be missed one bit.