The Auto Writer

I mentioned back in October 2006 that Saturn and Opel would eventually integrate most of their model lines. That plan has Saturn and Opel selling virtually the same models with one or two American GM products included in the Saturn line up (Saturn Outlook, for one).

Some of the smaller Opel models weren’t originally being considered, but with gas prices surging a noted automotive analyst, Jim Hall, says that Saturn would be served well by selling the Opel Meriva, a mini minivan as one of its base models.

Though it can “only” seat five passengers, the Meriva is slightly smaller than the Scion xB and is built on the Corsa platform. The Meriva measures just 159.4 inches long, 8 inches shorter than a Scion xB. The Corsa is expected to be the future base model for Saturn, replacing the current Astra.

Peter M. De Lorenzo, who authored The United States of Toyota, is contending that GM should get rid of Saturn altogether. Besides outlining that GM should be trimmed back to roughly two brands, Cadillac and Chevrolet, De Lorenzo believes that Saturn’s current lackluster sales is indicative of the company’s “too many models-too many divisions-too many dealers” set up.

Though De Lorenzo’s suggestions aren’t likely to be heeded, the marriage of Saturn and Opel could save the company cash as at least two brands are tasked with the responsibility of sharing their products. Whether consumers are attracted to a model like the Meriva remains to be seen, but with high gas prices a long term reality a Saturn Meriva does make sense.