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Saturn
Curve Concept
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Within twenty-seven months GM developed a new
vehicle architecture, Kappa. a rear-wheel-drive platform for
the Pontiac Solstice – a concept-to-reality sports car coming in 2005.
The new Kappa architecture is the foundation for the Solstice
production model as well as several exciting concept vehicles that
demonstrate its adaptability. GM introduced the Solstice production
model, as well as the Chevrolet Nomad and Saturn Curve concepts, at
the 2004 North
American International Auto Show.
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“As much as the Curve is a driver’s car, it’s also a
reflection of the mindset of the driver,” said Nicho Vardis, lead
interior designer. “As people spend more time in their vehicles, a
warm, personal environment becomes more important. A car like the
Curve, which is both functional and thoughtfully designed, provides
that environment.” |
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With the Saturn Curve concept, a sinewy shape, warm
colors and the aural delights of a supercharged engine warm the
emotions of those who appreciate sophisticated and engaging
automobiles.
The Curve signifies Saturn’s evolution, both in styling and product.
Saturn is growing its portfolio, planning new vehicles and exploring
dynamic, refined designs.
General Motors introduced the Saturn Curve at the North American
International Auto Show. It was one of the vehicles, including the
Pontiac Solstice production model and Chevrolet Nomad concept, built
on GM’s new rear-wheel-drive Kappa architecture.
Design creativity and implementation was a collaboration of GM’s
worldwide resources, driven by GM North America’s Advanced Design Team
and developed by GM’s European Advanced Design Center in Sweden. The
European design influence bolsters the Curve’s aura of refinement.
Final assembly was completed in Italy, with assistance from Italian
coachbuilder Pininfarina.
The design of the Curve abounds with interesting details that
emphasize its contemporary design aesthetic, as well as its sports car
roots, including roof pillars that are concealed by a wraparound
canopy of glass – creating the look of a “floating” roof panel.
Also, a front-hinged, clamshell hood is complemented by a rear-hinged
trunk lid. The forward-opening hood is a nod to great sports cars of
the past, while the opposite-opening trunk lid creates interesting
design symmetry when both panels are in the up position. The vehicle
is coated in Mission Silver, a warm color chosen for its liquid metal
appearance.
Inside, an open-gate shifter and analog
instruments evoke the feel of a pure sports car, while the interior
environment is warmed and enhanced with “floating” door inserts that
feature color-changing backlighting. This unique lighting effect
transmits a subdued mood throughout the vehicle and is the type of
innovative feature at home in a Saturn.
The Curve’s interior is consistent with
the level of workmanship and refinement that will characterize future
Saturn models, including the upcoming RELAY crossover sport van.
A curved wood center console is the interior’s dominant feature and is
attached to the dashboard via a tongue-and-groove joint. It also
encapsulates the engine instruments. Blonde wood is used to convey
lightness and airiness, while charcoal-colored leather and terracotta
inserts accent the dashboard and upholstery. An aluminum band running
the width of the interior serves as a divider for the interior’s
different elements. A matching aluminum handle greets those who open
the Curve’s doors, inviting them to plunge into a warm environment
that reflects the friendly nature of the Saturn brand.
Despite its relaxed demeanor inside, the Curve delivers a stirring
sports car experience. Built on GM’s new Kappa architecture, this
sport coupe features rear-wheel drive, independent front and rear
suspensions, and a solid chassis built on the foundation of
full-length hydroformed frame rails. Stampings attached to the rails
form a rigid structure onto which the body panels are mounted.
Sports car performance is derived from a supercharged 2.2-liter Ecotec
four-cylinder engine that produces more than 200 horsepower and more
than 200 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine features fuel-saving variable
valve timing technology, which is available on some of GM’s four-,
five- and six-cylinder engines. Through the use of variable engine
valve timing, lift and duration can improve fuel economy, emissions
and performance. The transmission is a Getrag five-speed manual.
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