2004 Saturn L300 - Reviews - Buying Guide
2004 Saturn L300 Buying Resources:
2004 Saturn L300 Review:
Before you go out to your local Saturn dealership with the
intention of picking up an L-Series sedan or wagon, you should
know one thing: the L-Series is no more. In its place, Saturn
has renamed the entire line simply as the L300, regardless
of body style.
The shift to the new name reflects Saturn’s emphasis on a
high-content, high-value product strategy. This move is one
that will certainly be welcomed by customers, especially during
today’s lean times.
The 2004 L300 will continue to use Saturn's dent and rust-resistant
polymer panels for the front fenders, doors and bumper fascias;
the other body parts are steel. This long-lasting exterior
fabric matches the precise engineering components that do
the same under the Saturn’s hood.
Under the Hood
The front-wheel drive Saturn L300, like the subcompact ION,
uses a numbered model trim setup. Base 1 models have a 2.2-liter
Ecotec inline 4-cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower and
150 lb-ft of torque. 4-speed electronic automatic transmission
is standard. This model has a fuel rating of 24/33 mpg (city/highway)
2 and 3 models step things up with a strong 3.0-liter V6
with 182 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. They get an estimated
20/29 mpg (city/highway).
Safety defines Saturn, and the L300 is a typical model from
the GM division in this respect. All 2004 L300s are equipped
with a standard four-wheel, antilock disc braking system (ABS),
traction control, dual front airbags and head-curtain side
airbags.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
Both sedans and wagons have four doors and seat five passengers.
The big difference, however, is in the cargo space. While
sedans offer a modest 17.5 cubic feet of cargo space, wagons
provide up to 79 cubic feet. If you need a vehicle to frequently
transport a lot of goods, the choice is an easy one.
The standard package of all L300 models includes such things
as heated outside rearview mirrors, driver's seat adjustable
lumbar, rear-seat armrest, floormats, dual lit vanity mirrors
and front and rear-seat reading lamps.
The Level 3 version of the L300 offers a series of options
that do not increase the vehicle's base price. Sedan owners
can choose a sunroof, a DVD entertainment system or the OnStar
system. Wagon owners can choose either the DVD system or OnStar.
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