Saturn Astra has helped GM to save millions

In a recent interview, Bob Lutz said that the re-badged Opel/Vauxhall Astra has allowed GM to save $900 million/£447 million. “Its adaptation to American requirements cost less than $100 million,“ said GM vice chairman.

Due to go on sale form next January, the Saturn Astra will likely meet success thanks to an aggressive price and strong qualities when compared with the outgoing Ion. Despite a predictable success, Saturn expects to sell only 45,000 cars while the Ion model has been sold at 100,000 units last year.

The savings generated by the cheap development will enable GM to make a small profit despite a weak dollar. Indeed, the Saturn Astra will be built in GM’s Antwerp, Belgium plant.

Bob Lutz also said that “In the future, Opel and Saturn will share about 90 percent of their model portfolios.“