Saturn was created to be a new car brand in the GM lineup, and that's it started in the '80s, but eventually, it didn't survive the 2008 world financial crisis.
GM introduced the Saturn Relay in 2004 as an alternative for the Pontiac Montana and the Chevrolet Uplander minivans. While the other two brands aimed at a different segment, Saturn was supposed to get more attention from the younger generation. It was a different kind of minivan that featured sliding doors and an all-wheel-drive system.
GM used an evolution of the U-body platform for the Relay. It was the same for the Pontiac Aztek, which was sold in higher numbers. It featured a simple, somehow dull, exterior appearance, with a classic MPV styling and sliding doors in the back. The big tailgate in the rear could have been used as an umbrella since it was big enough to host a small gathering underneath.
Inside, the Relay was available with up to seven seats. The rear bench could have been split into 60/40 ratios and extend the trunk space or use it as a tent. Its dashboard was inspired by regular sedans, with a rounded instrument cluster and four white dials inside. The Relay could have been ordered with captain seats and a 50/50 3rd row bench on the second row.
The Relay was available with a choice of two V6 engines mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission in three trim levels.
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