• October 11, 2007

Saturn's forthcoming Astra sport compact is getting an airing in the U.S. before it rolls into dealerships next year. The GM division will launch a test-drive program in 14 markets this fall, starting Friday and running through Dec. 13.

Signup is at the Astra microsite at saturn.com. The events let consumers examine the vehicle and ask questions, then take the car through its paces on a closed course.

The 14 markets include San Francisco, Miami, Atlanta, Orlando, Philadelphia, New York, Dallas, Detroit and Chicago. The Astra is available starting Jan. 2 starting at $15,995, including destination.

--Karl Greenberg