[mjd1001]

Maybe it's as simple as GM not having the "cash" for not only a new product to be produced, but more importantly, the money to give the car a proper "advertising launch". As someone mentioned before, the new Malibu with the 6 speed auto and 2.4 is getting really good mileage ratings...and the current Aura is getting the same combo (and will thus be getting the same mileage ratings.) If GM is as short on cash as we are led to beleive they are now (and will be for the next year or two), then why spend ANY money now for an expensive vehicle launch...when you have a current car that people may just keep on buying (in not spectacular numbers) because it is improving in the way (fuel economy) that seems to be more important to people now than styling is.

Remeber, new vehicle launches, done the right way (advertising included) can be expensive. If a company is having funding problems, they may have to pick and choose what projects go forward and which ones they can hold off on.