2004 SATURN L300 SEDAN NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Saturn L300?
Saturn gives its midsized sedan a new moniker for 2004; all L-Series models are now called L300. The horsepower rating for the standard 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine is increased by five to 140 hp, and a five-speed manual transmission is no longer available. Also for 2004, goodies such as heated side mirrors, lumbar adjustment for the driver’s seat, a rear-seat armrest, and reading lamps for the front and rear seat positions become standard across the line. Safety features including ABS, traction control and side-curtain airbags now come standard as well. If you opt for the top-of-the-line Level 3 trim, you get the choice of a DVD entertainment system, a power sunroof or a one-year subscription to OnStar telematics for free.

Advantages of the 2004 Saturn L300:

• No-hassle buying experience
• Dent- and rust-resistant door panels
• Free goodies gimmick on top-level trim
• European driving characteristics
• Take your pick: sedan or wagon

Objections to the 2004 Saturn L300:

• Inexpensive interior materials
• Unimpressive powertrains
• Uncomfortable rear seat

Editor's Advice:
Several aspects of the 2004 Saturn L300 are attractive, such as the dealer experience, the relatively low sticker price and the extensive standard features list. Plus, the Saturn L300 comes as a sedan or a station wagon. Once you start looking at the car with a more critical eye, however, you may conclude that it’s not quite the good value that it’s touted to be. Issues such as inexpensive interior materials, unrefined powertrains and questionable build quality are likely to have you second-guessing your purchase time and again, while resale values fall precipitously after purchase. For our money, we’d stick with tried-and-true mainstream sedans such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.