1999 Saturn Homecoming Commemorative Edition SL2

1999 Saturn Homecoming Commemorative Edition SL2
CHICAGO - The Saturn folks talked very little about their upcoming mid-size cars -- the LS sedans and wagons due out as 2000 models -- and not at all about their much-rumored sport-utility vehicle. But they did talk about lots of other stuff, like plans for the company's second homecoming bash, which will take place July 30-31 in Spring Hill, Tenn.

Saturn will be sending out about 2 million invitations to the homecoming celebration. More than 60,000 owners and families are expected to attend this year, along with 150,000 others who will be attending events set for local retailers and at the Troy and Wilmington Saturn plants.

But we were in Chicago to hear about cars, and as luck would have it, it turns out that in honor of the homecoming events, Saturn is releasing a special homecoming version of the SL2 four-door. Called the "Homecoming Commemorative Edition SL2," all will come painted in a unique "Gold Green" metallic finish. They'll also have special alloy wheels and black-and-silver exterior emblems. Inside, there's a combination tan leather and cloth upholstery, a tan instrument cluster with "Homecoming" graphics, and front floor mats with "Homecoming" stitching.

In addition to a long list of standard equipment, buyers may choose from selected options to further personalize their special "Homecoming" model. Saturn has decided to limit production to about 4,000 of the commemorative editions, which carry an MSRP of $17,405, depending on options. Sounds like Saturn has taken a page from Miata's book: When you don't have new product to show, simply make a special edition and make news.