2001 Saturn L300 review from North America
"If you are looking for a fast performance sedan with great features, check out this sleeper!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
A slow leak in coolant hose. A dash light appeared, but the coolant tank only dropped ~1/2 inch - replaced under warranty.
General comments?
This car has incredible handling and performance characteristics.
The digital automatic transmission "knows" just what to do, depending on conditions. It doesn't hunt going up hills, engine braking, downshifts when it should -- doesn't downshift when it shouldn't, locking torque converter provides manual transmission feel, shifts at redline when asked (6500), fly-by-wire (electronic throttle).
0-60 in 7.3 seconds according to Edmunds. Plenty of torque is available from the low-end to redline -- typical, slightly aggressive driving will take place under 3.5k rpm. You can't shop by horsepower with this car. Put aside its underrated 182hp / 190 ft-lbs numbers.
Handling characteristics are impressive. Suspension is stiff, but not bone rattling. This car is fun to take in the twisties... and rides them with confidence.
Great leather interior, the heated seats are very effective and comfy. Heated mirrors, power everything, stereo with tweets and sub, sun roof, traction control, and other features make driving a pleasent experience.
The price is great too. A loaded L300, 3.0L V6, leather, OnStar, DVD system, auto HVAC, etc. just nears $25,000. Performance slightly exceeds automatic Altima 3.5L, and you'll score a better interior too.
If you want a fun car that not everyone else in the world has, this is it.
Recommended reviews
| A wolf in sheep's clothing, and a joy to drive |
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| I really like it |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0L V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 1 miles |
| Most recent distance | 39000 miles |
| Previous car | Saturn SL |
| Date of Entry | 1st August, 2002 |