2009 Astra = 2008 Astra?

[TriShield]

GMI, accepting one rebadged failure at a time.

It's a shame too since this is a actually a nice little car. Ford selling the Euro-Fiesta and later Focus will crap all over it though.

[TKR]

Originally Posted by TKR

At least sales numbers are heading in the right direction which is more than can be said for a lot of GM models:

Dec 0
Jan 215
Feb 542
Mar 720
Apr 909

May 1091

[vandy0419]

My dealer has over a dozen sitting there on the lot. I love them, but don't think I would get one unless it is a RL edition with the LNF. As much as I don't like them, I'd rather get a Cobalt SS with the LNF...

[Aprime]

Originally Posted by TriShield

GMI, accepting one rebadged failure at a time.

It's a shame too since this is a actually a nice little car. Ford selling the Euro-Fiesta and later Focus will crap all over it though.

The Euro Focus has probably the worst perception among the buying public, while the Opel imports are conquering the hearts of future new car buyers of my generation.

It is somewhat obvious that the Euro Fords will outsell the Euro Saturns, but there's no way Ford is changing its image within future generations (with a few exceptions).

They're all good cars with great future potential, but presently, they don't sell because Saturn's alienated its existing buyer base and the Astra isn't customizable enough (for a car that's meant to compete with the likes of the Rabbit... - should also point out the lack of... Well, things that are usually standard on other GM vehicles, like an aux jack and armrest).

The next iteration should bring that level of customization up to speed with the previous 'series' from Saturn (the Ion).

But like I said, I'm still 80% certain that GM's perception turnaround among my generation and sales will go through Saturn. All my friends (import fanboys that despise American vehicles) drool over the idea of being able to purchase a Corsa when they're fresh out of college, which they will be by the time it comes out.

-----

It's doing pretty good in Canada, but dealers are complaining about the lack of inventory and ridiculous wait times (if you order one to your tastes it takes 3 months for it to actually arrive) for the buggers.

[TKR]

Originally Posted by TriShield

GMI, accepting one rebadged failure at a time.

So how is the Astra a 'rebadge'? What other names is it sold under in the US?

[Buick61]

Originally Posted by nsap

2009 Astra = 2008 Astra
GM's 2009 Order Guide & Fleet Guide are both showing no changes to ASTRA
www.gminsidenews.com

We at GMI have been searching high and low for any tid-bit of details on the 2009 Saturn Astra. The car launched in the 2008 model-year with very few options and an engine that barely meets segment standards. Although the car has many good qualities, many within the Saturn fanfare were wishing for the addition of some of the buffet of options that are offered on the European-spec Astra. GM has finally put the 2009 Astra up on the Online Order Guide, as well as the 2009 GM Fleet Guide; both showing no changes at all to the 2009 model Astra.

This is not true. You have to check GM Media, not just the ordering guide.

There WILL be small changes for the 2009 Astra.

Meet Your 2009 Saturn Lineup

[Ric Cortez]

ASTRAS ARE ROCKING!!! I want one of the diesel engines from Europe. They offer 3 gas and 3 diesel engine. So what if they are only 48 state EPA qulified? I promise not to drive in New York or California.

[DuSpinnst]

Originally Posted by TKR

So how is the Astra a 'rebadge'? What other names is it sold under in the US?

You'll have to excuse TriShield, he has a meth problem.

[Minnesota Nice]

Originally Posted by Buick61

This is not true. You have to check GM Media, not just the ordering guide.

There WILL be small changes for the 2009 Astra.

Meet Your 2009 Saturn Lineup

None of which, sadly, will influence my decision to replace my Civic with it.