Kansas City Saturn Buzz

Team Member Spotlight - Sean Leistico

2008-09-22T11:30:00.001-06:00

Sean Leistico has both personal and professional experience with Saturn vehicles. Sean has owned a total of eight Saturn cars, and has been with Saturn sales for three years. He believes Saturn vehicles are the best on the market because of their dependability. "The Saturn is well built. The Aura is made right here in Fairfax, Kan.," said Sean.

The best part about Sean's job is the one-on-one contact with satisfied customers. Sean wants his customers to walk away from the purchase with a friendly and easy experience to remember. "I love sharing the joy that comes from purchasing a new vehicle," said Sean. "Customers should come prepared for a no hassle and very satisfying experience with Saturn."

Contact Sean at Saturn of Tiffany Springs:

(800) 701-6186

9550 NW Prairie View Rd.

Kansas City, MO 64153

Had a great experience with Sean? Leave a comment!

Celebrity Saturn Drivers

2008-09-22T10:36:00.003-06:00

Dan Holiday knows American music... he's a DJ for 94 Country KFKF! But he also knows real American cars. Listen to how Dan Holiday rethinks American every time he drives his new 2008 Saturn Aura.

Saturn Squad - Santa Cali-Gon Days

2008-09-02T21:18:00.008-06:00

Welcome to Santa Cali-Gon Days 2008!

Families flocked to Independence, Mo. this Labor Day weekend for the 48th celebration of Santa Cali-Gon Days. The Saturn Squad attended the event equipped with an '08 Outlook and the new '09 Aura. Free water bottles and fans at the Saturn booth kept festival goers cool during the hot weekend.

Check out a view from Santa Cali-Gon square and the Saturn booth on Main Street in Independence.

We were greeted by a number of Saturn drivers from Independence! All the drivers were excited about the 2009 models and the current GM employee pricing event. One Saturn driver posed with our '08 Outlook! "Now that's one good looking car," he said.

For more information about Santa Cali-Gon Days, click here.

Real Life Saturn Drivers

2008-08-25T10:20:00.009-06:00

Van O'Brien - Olathe, KS

Drives: '08 Astra

Dealer: Saturn of Olathe

Status: First time Saturn owner

The purchase experience:

"As you know, this is my first Saturn. I would describe the purchasing experience at Saturn of Olathe as easy and found the staff to be friendly and knowledgeable."

The vehicle decision:

"I didn't look at other vehicles, because I knew the Astra was going to be mine. I looked for something that was cute and got great gas mileage. I had an 'a-ha' moment when test driving the Astra. The little guy growled."

The verdict is in:

"I just love driving my little Astra. It has plenty of pep, and I just love the growl."

Will you become a repeat Saturn owner?

"Absolutely. We're thinking about the Aura next!"

GM's Saturn Vue: finally, a winner

2008-08-20T12:45:00.010-06:00

"The 2008 Vue easily clears the bar set by arch competitors Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V."

Dan Neil, a L.A. Times GM cynic, has turned the corner regarding Saturn vehicles with the introduction of the 2008 Vue. Neil feels the '08 Vue is the best North American product (with the exception of the Corvette, that is). Read on to find out why the Vue has Neil ready to "throw rose petals at the feet of GM execs."

"Handsomely sculpted, generously equipped (particularly in the safety category, where six airbags, anti-lock/traction/stability control with trailer sway control and active head restraints are standard)."

"Another eureka moment in Vue comes when you park yourself behind the wheel. the interior surfaces and materials are all very rewarding: the dense, rubberized covering on the dash-top and doors, the faux wood-grain wainscoting and satiny alloy-like finish on the shifter and steering wheel... The Vue interior bests the benchmarks in its class."

"Maybe this is the biggest surprise of all: The Vue XR is a real pleasure to drive. It's a tall, five-seat sports tourer, actually. There's a lot of power, keen and accurate steering, solid brakes and a superbly balanced chassis that treats the compromise between the ride quality and road handling as if it were no compromise at all."

For complete article, click here.

Celebrity Saturn Drivers

2008-08-20T12:15:00.006-06:00

Teresa of Mix 93.3 shares her love for the whole Saturn lineup! As a DJ for Kansas City's #1 hit music station, she should be driving Kansas City's #1 vehicle - and she is!

What a Great Vue!

2008-08-14T21:08:00.003-06:00

I've upgraded. I'm officially the owner of a 2008 Saturn Vue. Polar white, leather, V6 engine... great amenities for a girl recently driving a Toyota Echo. While I'm impressed by the style, stability and safety of the Vue, I was extremely satisfied with the purchasing process.

No pressure. I felt absolutely no pressure to commit until I was 110% positive which vehicle was for me. The staff at Saturn discussed every option with me, from financing to hot specials I could qualify for. The sales agents asked questions about my likes, dislikes and interests. They suggested a few different vehicles, and the test drive sealed the deal. Unknown to me, I qualified for new college graduate discounts. I was impressed that Saturn withheld no specials - they were genuinely interested in getting me a great deal on a Vue.

Though it's my first Saturn, I'm already hooked. I've plugged in my iPod, rolled down the windows and sung at the top of my lungs. My Vue isn't only a professional and stylish vehicle, it's something I can be proud of.

Test Drive Tuesday - July 22, 2008

2008-07-22T21:29:00.005-06:00

As temperatures rose at Test Drive Tuesday, the KC Saturn Squad and Q104 braved the heat with the Saturn Aura, Outlook and Vue ready to test drive. Q104's Mike Kennedy broadcast live from Hy-Vee at 119th & Ridgeview. He also told KC Saturn Buzz why he loves his 2008 Saturn Aura.

"I love the leather, ride and style of the Aura. Honestly, I've had an Audi and two Mercedes, and the Aura is just as great of a vehicle. It's hip, it's cool, and it's the real deal."

-Mike Kennedy, host of Q104 Morning Drive

Today was a day for shopping around as test drivers compared the Saturn vehicles to the competition. Shoppers were pleasantly surprised about Saturn's vehicle selection and how it stacked up with the competition. Here's what some comparison shoppers had to say:

Eric, 31 - Olathe, KS

Drove: '08 Outlook

In Market for: Large SUV

Compare to: GMC Acadia

"It has nice styling and handling. It's got a lot of room and features for the price. My wife and I are going to look into it."

Ryan, 24 - Kansas City, MO

Drove: '08 Aura

Currently Owns: Mazda 6

"The Aura has good MPG and is very roomy. It's a great all-around sedan!"

Chris, 47 - Olathe, KS

Drove: '08 Vue

In Market for: Small, compact SUV

Compare to: Honda CRV, Toyota RAV4

"The vehicle is very stylish. The ride is very smooth, much smoother than the Toyota RAV4. The way it drives is the most important factor in my decision, and I felt it handled very well!"

Q104 Yallapalooza 2008

2008-07-15T22:02:00.023-06:00

Kansas City's Saturn Squad added some up and coming stars to Q104 Yallapalooza's concert lineup. The 2008 Saturn vehicle lineup made an appearance and country fans enjoyed the cars, sun and music. Gary Allen and Keith Anderson had a run for their money as the stars of Yallapalooza with the '08 Outlook at the show.

The Saturn Squad shined the cars and kept cool by handing out Saturn fans to thousands of concert goers.

Saturn Sightings:

Jessica, 19 - Lee Summit, MO

Drives: '08 Sky

Saturn Loyal Since: March 2008

"I've had my Saturn Sky for about four months now, and I'd never

trade it in! My dad is a race car driver, and I've grown up around cars. I can tell a good, fast car when I see one, and that's why I've got a Sky. Not many people have Sky's, which means they are rare - just like me." - Jessica

Q104's mascot gives Saturn's 2008 vehicle lineup a thumb's up!

Test Drive Tuesday - July 15, 2008

2008-07-15T21:44:00.005-06:00

Steak, sun and Saturn vehicles highlighted Test Drive Tuesday on July 15! KMBZ's Scott Parks broadcasted live during the event at Hereford House, Town Center. A diverse group of test-drivers learned about the cars, and expressed interest in Aura's impressive fuel efficiency as gas prices continue to rise.

Test Drivers at the Saturn Squad tent.

Happy Test Drivers:

Gina, 32, Overland Park & Tabita, 26, Brazil

Drove: '08 Aura

Status: First Time Drivers

What is your favorite part of the Saturn Aura?

"This car feels very solid. The doors are nice and heavy, which makes the car feel sturdy and safe. The available power seats and steering wheel make adjusting very easy."

Is the Aura everything you expected?

"I didn't expect the available features. I have never had a steering wheel move in and out, not just up and down. It made the car feel very custom."

How do you feel while driving the Aura?

"I feel solid and safe. I also feel comfortable. I've been in cars that have very hard, uncomfortable seats, but the Aura's seats are very comfortable. You can really fold into the seats."

Test Drive Tuesday - July 1, 2008

2008-07-01T21:18:00.022-06:00

The Saturn Squad and 810 Sports met at Dicks Sporting Goods in Zona Rosa for July's first Test Drive Tuesday. After their test drive and some sports chatting with the 810 Sports Crew, test drivers went into Dicks Sporting Goods to spend their gift cards. With hot temperatures, it was a perfect day to roll out the sunroof and cruise around in the '08 Saturn lineup!

Happy Test Drivers:

Kendall Lange, 23 - Overland Park, KS

Drove: '08 Astra

Status: Previous Test Driver

Kendall's thoughts prior to her Astra test drive:

During the the test drive, Kendall has this to say about the Astra:

Jessica Larson, 23 - Olathe, KS

Drove: '08 Aura

Status: First Time Driver

Jessica's thoughts about the Aura prior to her test drive:

After your Aura test drive, what do you think?

"The Aura's drive is extremely smooth and quiet. I love it!"

What do you love about the Aura?

"I love the way it makes me feel when I drive it. I feel like it already belongs to me."

Michael Carson, 27 - Kansas City, KS

Drove: '08 Outlook

Status: First Time Driver

Are you in the market for a new SUV?

"Yes, I'm looking to replace my Yukon. I still need enough space for my family, because I have three kids."

Would the Outlook fit your needs as an SUV?

"Easily, because I could downsize on the outside without giving up room on the interior. I could still fit the whole family in, because the Outlook has third-row seating."

Steve & Julie, Newlyweds - North Kansas City, MO

Drove: '08 Astra

Status: First Time Driver

Congratulations on tying the knot! As newlyweds, have your vehicle needs changed?

"Yes. Steve now commutes to Lawrence often, where he is a firefighter. The long, frequent commute means a need for better fuel efficiency."

What Astra features best fit your young family's needs?

"The quality and car value for the money are important. Safety is first, and fuel economy is important too. We need a reliable car that is affordable."

Consumer Report - 2008 Saturn Outlook

2008-06-23T16:52:00.019-06:00

Saturn Rising:

Mid-sized SUVs, GM's New Entry Rates Among the Best

Consumer Reports, August 2007

"The new Saturn Outlook is the best American SUV we've tested and ranks among the top vehicles in both our mid-sized and large SUV ratings..."

Consumer Reports found the car-based '08 Outlook had superior

handling and "room to spare." Check out what else Consumer Reports had to say about the roomy Outlook.

"Almost a foot and a half longer than most mid-sized SUVs such as the Toyota Highlander, the Outlook is the first car-based SUV that's big enough to be a viable alternative to large truck-based models such as the Ford Expedition or Chevrolet Tahoe."

"The Outlook is also less expensive than other large SUV's we've [Consumer Reports] tested and provides the best overall fuel economy."

"...Outlook has more interior room, almost as much cargo space as the Tahoe, and a third seat that's easier to access and roomy enough for adults."

Team Member Spotlight - Sandy Bowers

2008-06-19T14:17:00.016-06:00

Sandy Bowers has been with Saturn of Olathe for six years. Her outstanding sales record earned her Top Sales Consultant for 2007-2008.

Sandy and Saturn take the edge off of buying a new vehicle. "Purchasing a new vehicle can be stressful," said Bowers. "I try to take the stress out of the situation by providing information that will make their car buying experience an easy one. "

Sandy's success is also due to the quality of Saturn's vehicle lineup. "Saturn has always been known for building safe and reliable vehicles, so most of our customers come back to purchase again," said Bowers.

Contact Sandy Bowers at Saturn of Olathe:

sbowers@saturnolathe.dealerspace.com

(800) 701-6185

925 N. Rawhide

Olathe, KS 66061

Have you had a great experience with Sandy? Leave a comment!

Test Drive Tuesday - June 17, 2008

2008-06-17T20:48:00.021-06:00

Sunny skies greeted Saturn test drivers at the Hereford House in Town Center Plaza, Leawood. The Saturn gang worked with 98.1 KUDL to host the event. With gas mileage on everyone's mind, the Saturn lineup's great MPG ratings impressed test drivers.

Michelle Chase and the KUDL crew hosted the "Work Cafe" live from Town Center. 98.1 listeners stopped at the Saturn tent for test driving, then used their $25 gift cards for lunch at Hereford House.

Happy Test Drivers:

Danny, 31 - Leawood, KS

Drove: '08 Vue

Status: First Time Driver

View and discuss this video on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjNUE5A4034

Ryan, 22 - Overland Park, KS

Drove: '08 Outlook

Status: First time Outlook driver, veteran Saturn test driver

So, you've driven a Saturn before... which other model have you driven?

"The Saturn Aura, which handled very well. I was surprised how much the Outlook handled like the car. It drove very nicely, and I felt like I was steering something much smaller."

When you drove the Outlook, what surprised you most?

"I was pleasantly surprised by several things. It has more space than it looks from the outside (compared to a Jeep), and it's very roomy. I was also surprised by the smooth drive. I'd never tried a Saturn SUV, but I'd like to drive it again."

Test Drive Tuesday - June 10, 2008

2008-06-10T13:24:00.016-06:00

Test Drive Tuesday on June 10, 2008 took place at Granite City in Olathe. Test drivers enjoyed rides in the new '08 Saturn vehicles and free lunch at Granite City with their $25 gift cards.

Teresa and Mix 93.3 broadcasted live from Granite City and got customers signed up for "Red, White & Boom" tickets.

Happy Test Drivers:

Antonio Lopez & Family - Kansas City, MO

Test Drove: '08 Outlook

Status: First Time Driver

What features does the Outlook have that are important for your young family?

"Most importantly are safety features. The camera in back is an important feature, because I can make sure I don't run over anything behind me. The GPS mapping is also nice, which I don't have in my current Tahoe. I could make sure we never got lost."

Is the Saturn Outlook large enough for your family's needs?

"Yes, but we've got five children so we'd definitely need the eight-passenger option!"

As kids, what do you like most about the Outlook your dad just

test drove?

"The camera is really neat to see what is behind him. I also really like the sun roof. The TV lets us watch movies while we are driving."

Steve - Olathe, KS

Test Drove: '08 Aura

Status: First Time Driver

As a working professional, what do you look for in a vehicle?

"I obviously look for comfort and style. It's important that a car has a lot of leg room. Also, gas mileage is definitely important as gas prices rise."

What features does the '08 Saturn Aura have that fits your lifestyle?

"A nice looking and stylish exterior are important to me. Also, the interior has all the bells and whistles that I'm looking for in a car."

What are your first thoughts after your Aura test drive?

"As a first time driver, the experience was very positive. The car drove and handled very nicely."

Celebrity Saturn Drivers

2008-06-04T16:09:00.015-06:00

Mike Kennedy of the Q104 Morning Drive talks about his new Saturn Aura.

Test Drive Tuesday - May 27, 2008

2008-05-27T20:23:00.027-06:00

The Test Drive Tuesdays crew met at Legends Village West Shopping Center. Saturn of Tiffany Springs and Mix 93.3 hosted both veteran and rookie Saturn drivers all eager to test drive the cars. Drivers enjoyed the sun, shopping and all the '08 Saturn vehicles.

Teresa & Swank with the Mix 93.3 gang. Teresa gave on-air testimonials about her own Saturn Outlook. Mix 93.3 also registered test drivers to win "Red, White & Boom '08" tickets!

Happy Test Drivers:

J'Amber - Wyandotte County, KS

Test Drove: '08 Vue

Status: First Time Driver

What three words would you use to describe the Saturn Vue?

"Stylish, young & solid."

What intrigues you most about the Vue?

"The way it looks. This car is stylish and sleek. It looks like a really nice SUV."

What surprised you most about this vehicle?

"Well, I'm pretty short. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I didn't have difficulty climbing into the car. I didn't have to jump out either. You don't find that often in an SUV. This Vue is the perfect size!"

Lydia, 18 - Tonganoxie, KS

Test Drove: '08 Outlook

Status: First Time Driver

What are your first impressions of the Saturn Outlook?

"It looks like the perfect car for a road trip or vacation. It makes me feel like I could jump in with friends or family and be ready for fun. This car is definitely road trip ready!"

When you first got in the car, what did you think?

"I found it very easy to adjust the seats and mirrors. Everything was automatic, and the inside is very functional. I love the GPS and DVD player, which are also great for vacation!"

Which feature could you not live without after driving the '08 Outlook?

"The GPS and DVD player. But I love the camera in the back. The camera shows me on the GPS screen what's behind me. I didn't have to worry about backing up into stuff.