2007 Saturn Sky Red Line

If the 2007 Sky Red Line is any indication, reports of GM's death have been greatly exaggerated. Thanks to a new turbocharged, direct-injection 2.0-liter inline-four making 260 horsepower (the highest specific output of any production GM engine ever), the Sky now has moves as hot as its head-spinning bod. Like its sister car, the Pontiac Solstice GXP (winner of last month's "Reach for the Stars" comparo), the Sky Red Line is a ragtop done right.

The turbo engine is GM North America's first direct-injection powerplant. Combined with pressurized air, pumping fuel directly into the cylinders not only boosts power by a massive 90 horsepower over the 2.4-liter base engine (claimed 0-to-60 for the Red Line is just 5.5 seconds), but even helps deliver better fuel efficiency.

Also standard on the Red Line are StabiliTrak electronic stability control, a limited-slip, dual exhaust tips, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and polished 18-inch alloy wheels (chrome is optional).

The Sky Red Line's "wow" factor is huge. Its sticker isn't, starting at just under $28K. The General deserves a salute.