It looks like the Saturn Ion will be going the way of the Dodo Bird, with the introduction of the new 2008 Saturn Astra.  It's a European styled compact with bear bones pricing and practically no standard features, starting at $16,495.  Mind you, this base line model doesn't include an automatic or even air conditioning, which I thought was standard equipment since the model T.

The 4-Cylinder engine is a little wanting, since once it's loaded down with passengers and luggage the 125lb of torque just doesn't do interstate on ramps.  But, those searching for a relief to $4 gallon fuel prices will probably be more than willing to sacrifice that get up and go for 32mpg on the highway.

Saturn on eBay

2K1 KEY CHAIN SATURN ASTRA AURA VUE OUTLOOK SKY XE 01    US $.99

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SATURN sky vue ion sc2 outlook key chain NIB US SELLER    US $2.99

I'm tired of people trying to make me feel guilty about driving an SUV and to be honest I feel a little guilty using as much gas as I do. However, an SUV is such a wonderful utility vehicle that would require me to own multiple vehicles (thus being worse on the environment) than just owning one that consumes a little more than the average auto. Thanks to Chevy it may be a moot point.

Chevrolet announced that they will be releasing the  Tahoe and Yukon in Hybrid versions. This means that I can now have the towing power and capacity to do what I normally do, but now with a environmentally conscious engine!

It's gonna cost me though, in the neighborhood of $50,000+ but at least it's an option. Check out what the boys at the Boston Herald have to say about this leap in hybrid technology.