Sedan-like comfort and convenience features, versatility with more than 58 cubic feet of cargo space and the reliability and dependability that comes with driving any Saturn. All combine to make the 1998 line-up of Saturn wagons an affordable vehicle alternative for today's utilitarian lifestyles.
DISTINCTIVE STYLING - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
On the outside, the Saturn wagons feature distinctive styling not shared with any General Motors division. The upswept, wedge-shaped body panels are constructed for long lasting durability with fenders, doors and quarter panels manufactured from a ding-and-dent resistant polymer material. Horizontal surfaces, including the roof and hood, are constructed from steel. The front and rear bumper systems include an aluminum bumper bar coupled with a honeycomb "guideflex" energy management system underneath the fascias. All panels are covered with a universal-primer finisher prior to the application of an environmentally-friendly waterborne basecoat. To help maintain a long lasting shiny finish, all Saturn receive a final clear coat finish. Both the front and rear bumper systems are designed to meet all federal safety standards, including impact protection up to 5 mph with no visible damage.
OTHER EXTRAS - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
On SW1 models the front and rear fascias are graphite-colored. Up-level SW2 models feature body-colored fascias. As part of its continuing emphasis on safety, all Saturn models are equipped with Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs). During daylight hours, the DRLs increase visibility of the vehicle to other drivers. For inclement driving situations, foglamps are available on the SW2. SW2 models feature specific body color door handles while the SW1 is equipped with graphite-colored door handles that match the front and rear fascias. All key cylinders incorporate a new locking mechanism that includes a side bar design for added strength. For additional safety and security, customers may opt for the Saturn Security System, which includes power door locks. This factory-installed system has a new passive security feature that can be programmed by the retailer upon customer request. The optional security system requires the vehicle to be equipped with the available Power Convenience Package. The new passive system automatically arms the system one minute after the ignition is turned off and any door is cycled. The system also alarms itself after ten minutes if the ignition has been turned off and no doors have been cycled. A red panic button on the key fob also is included and if pressed, flashes the courtesy lamps and sounds the horn for up to two minutes.
EXTERIOR - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
Exterior ornamentation is limited to Saturn badges on the front fenders and fascia, and the Saturn name debossed on the rear bumper. Entry and egress from the wagon is made easy with front doors that swing out a full 66 degrees and rear doors that open 74 degrees. The one-piece rear hatch is manufactured from sheet molding compound and is supported by counter balancing gas struts. The liftgate automatically locks each time it is latched and can easily be released via a remote mechanism located along side the driver seat or by key from the outside. The rear liftgate also includes a rear wiper system as standard equipment. A low liftover height of 25.5 inches makes for easier loading. Width at the lower portion of the gate is 36 inches, providing ample area for large packages. For additional cargo-carrying, a roof mounted luggage rack is available as a retailer installed accessory. All exterior glass is flush-mounted, contributing to low wind resistance and overall interior quietness. Drag coefficient for the Saturn wagons is .360. Overall length of the wagon is 176.9 inches, width is 66.7 inches and height is 54.9 inches. Curb weight for the SW1, when equipped with an automatic transmission and air conditioning is 2,421 pounds. Similarly-equipped wagons equipped with a manual transmission weigh 2,392 pounds.
COLORS - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
Depending on the model, up to seven exterior colors are available for 1998 including new Silver Plum and Dark Blue. Others color choices are Medium Red, Silver, Black, Dark Green and White.
INTERIOR - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
Five passenger accommodations, a large offering of standard and available features and generous storage space make Saturn wagons an ideal choice in the compact vehicle segment. Driving comfort is enhanced with adjustable headrests standard on all SW2 models. The headrests move up and down and include a locking feature. SW1 models continue with integral headrests. Three interior trim selections are available for 1998 depending on the model. Standard interior for the SW1 is cloth/vinyl. Additional lumbar support is provided in the seat for driving comfort. SW2 models are equipped with a standard cloth interior and leather seats are available. SW2 models also include an up/down cushion lift and a mechanically adjustable lumbar support. On both models, the driver and passenger seats are equipped with manually-operated recliners. Rear seats are designed to accommodate three passengers and include a 60/40 split with fold down seat backs that optimize rear storage space. With the seats folded, the rear cargo area provides more than 58 cubic feet of available space.
STORAGE - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
Cargo capacity with the seats upright is 24.9 cubic feet. Storage space for personal items is generous with a standard front console on both models. The rear storage area of the front console has two levels. The upper level is designed for small items including cosmetics, coins or a wallet while the lower level can be used for larger items including tapes and soft drink cans. A lockable center armrest console unit is available as a retailer installed accessory. The console also includes a cupholder and ashtray. The front ashtray is interchangeable from side to side, or may be eliminated entirely to provide an additional cupholder. A center tray is provided to hold sunglasses or other items within easy reach. Both front doors are equipped with pockets on the lower edge of the doors. A nylon mesh map pocket is located on the passenger seat back of the SW2 model. On wagons equipped with the leather interior, map pockets are provided on both the driver and passenger seat backs. On vehicles equipped with optional power windows, the switches are conveniently located on the console. Assist straps are located over the passenger doors to provide easy exit from the wagon. A standard height-adjustable steering column provides a full view of all instrumentation. Analog instrumentation is backlit and easy to read, including a large speedometer and tachometer along with gauges for coolant temperature, fuel, odometer and trip odometer. Instrumentation readout for the speedometer is 110 mph and 7000 rpm for the tachometer on the SW1. On wagons equipped with the more powerful dual overhead camshaft engine, the speedometer extends to 130 mph and tachometer readout to 8000 rpm. As part of Saturn's commitment to safety, driver and passenger Supplemental Inflatable Restraints (SIRs or air bags) are standard equipment. For 1998, Reduced Force Air Bags have been incorporated into the entire Saturn line-up. ( See End Note*.) Occupants should always wear seat belts even in vehicles equipped with air bags and sit as far away as practical from the SIR module while still maintaining proper control of the vehicle. All outboard seating positions have three point active seat belts. To help owners with small children who must be restrained in a child safety seat, the outboard rear seat belts have a cinching latchplate. This features allows parents to easily thread the belt webbing through the child safety restraint. If the driver fails to belt properly, an audible chime will sound and advise that the seat belt is not properly buckled. The rear seat in the wagons also include a structural beam to improve safety in side impacts.
AUDIO -Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
In addition to the standard AM/FM stereo, three audio system upgrades are available: an AM/FM stereo with cassette; an AM/FM stereo with cassette, graphic equalizer and upgraded speakers; and an AM/FM stereo with CD player, graphic equalizer and upgraded speakers.
OPTIONS - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
Other popular options include air conditioning, power windows and door locks, power right-side mirror and leather interior. Cloth interiors are available in three color combinations including grey, tan and black while the SW2's optional leather is available in tan and grey.
POWER MODULES - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
Two exclusive power modules (the combination of engine, transmission and integrated computer controls) are offered for Saturn wagons. For 1998, the transmission case housings and the all-aluminum engine blocks receive structural improvements designed to reduce noise and increase durability. Produced exclusively by Saturn in Spring Hill, the 1.9 liter four cylinder engine is available in both single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) versions. The SOHC is standard on the SW1 and produces 100 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 114 ft.lb. of torque at 2400 rpm. EPA rated fuel economy, when equipped with the five speed manual transmission is 27/37 mpg city/highway. When equipped with the automatic transmission, EPA fuel economy is 27/34 mpg city/highway. Wagons equipped with the SOHC and manual transmission can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 10.5 seconds. On cars equipped with the automatic, 0 to 60 mph is accomplished in 11.5 seconds. The SW2 is equipped with the more powerful DOHC. With a revised cylinder head and valvetrain, along with an increased 9.5:1 compression ratio, the DOHC produces 124 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 122 lb. ft of torque at 4800 ipm. The 16 valve four cylinder engine accelerates the SW2 from 0 to 60 mph in 9.0 seconds when equipped with a manual transmission and 9.6 seconds on automatic-equipped cars. Fuel economy for the SW2 with a manual transmission is EPA rated at 26/36 mpg city/highway and 24/34 mpg cityThighway with the automatic. A five speed wide ratio transmission with a with a 4.06 final drive ratio is standard on the SW1. SW2 models, equipped with the DOHC, feature a close ratio five speed with an identical 4.06 final drive. Both models are available with a four speed automatic transmission. Equal length drive axles are used to help reduce torque steer under hard acceleration. For 1998, the shift points on the automatic transmission have been revised to provide less "hunting" and improved downshift quality. Final drive ratio for the automatic transmission also is 4.06.
CHASSIS - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
The Saturn SW1 and SW2 wagon share a platform with both the sedan and coupe models. Supported on a 102.4 inch wheelbase, the wagons feature four-wheel independent suspension including MacPherson stiuts up front and a standard stabilizer bar measuring 27.2 mm. SW2 models are equipped with a larger 28.6 mm front bar. In the rear, a tri-link design utilizing two unequal length links that maintain minimal lateral movement and a single longitudinal link that provides fore/aft control is utilized. Additional stability on SW2 models is accomplished through the use of a rear stabilizer bar measuring 15 mm. For 1998, suspension dampers are improved for a smoother ride. SW1 models are equipped with P175/70R14 tires for sure-footed performance. Larger, P185/65R15 touring tires mounted on steel wheels with a new wheel cover design are standard on the SW2. Newly-styled "Multi-Fin" cast aluminum wheels also are offered on the uplevel wagon. Both wagons are equipped with power assisted front disc and rear drum brakes. For increased braking performance, a four wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) is available. The ABS includes a fully automatic traction control system that is designed to provide enhanced acceleration under slippery road conditions including snow, ice and wet pavement. Unlike the "brake only" systems found on many competitive makes, the Saturn system is integrated with the powertrain to reduce power through the spark timing and fuel management controls. When active, a telltale light on the instrument panel alerts the driver that the system is in operation. If some wheelspin is desired by the driver, particularly in heavy snow or mud conditions, the traction control system can be easily disengaged with a switch located on the instrument panel. Both wagons are equipped with specific steering systems. A constant flow power steering system with 18.3:1 ratio is standard on the SW1. Lock-to-lock is 3.0 turns. SW2 models are equipped with a variable assist power steering system with 16.3:1 ratio. Turns, lock to-lock are reduced to 2.67. Turning diameter for both wagons, curb-to-curb, is 37.1 feet.
CUSTOMER SERVICE - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
As part of Saturn's commitment to customers, every Saturn comes with a 30 day/1,500 mile Moneyback Guarantee if the owner is dissatisfied for any reason. After purchase, customer service includes a 24-hour Roadside Assistance program that is available seven days a week. If a customer locks keys in the car or runs out of gas, help is simply a phone call away. Each new Saturn owner also receives a credit card key that fits easily into a wallet or purse that can be used if the owner accidentally gets lock out of the car.
1998 SATURN FAST FACTS: SWl / SW2 WAGONS
NEW EXTERIOR: - Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
NEW INTERIOR: Buy The SW1 and SW2 Here
(* END NOTE: Reduced Force Air Bags do not reduce the need to wear safety belts. Safety belts and proper child restraints will continue to be the most effective way to help reduce the risks of injury and death in a crash and are essential in helping protect occupants in crashes where air bags are not intended to provide protection- side impacts, rear impacts and rollovers. Furthermore" Reduced Force Air Bags will not eliminate the risk to children in rear-facing infant seats. Rear-facing infant seats must be used only in rear seats. Reduced Force Air Bags will reduce some of the risks associated with air bag deployment for out-of position occupants, but the risks are not eliminated. Whenever possible, children under 13 years of age should be in the back seat and should always be properly secured.)
Copyright © 1985-2001 AutoPricing / VIS. All rights reserved. *Values are subjective opinions based on the Staff of NABA / VIS and recent market conditions. National Automobile Bankers Associates / Vehicle Information Services is not responsible for actual or claimed deviation. Copyright 1993-2001 NABA/VIS. Auto Pricing a service of VIS. 561-394-0610