The Saturn L300 is the full-dress version of the company’s mid-sized sedan, in my humble opinion the value leader in this segment, and tragically, a car almost nobody buys. The company is desperately trying to grow out of its initial image of a somewhat quirky, consumer-friendly organization, a strategy that seems to have locked it into a box, as far as consumer perceptions are concerned.

There is a uniquely intelligent quality to the L300, immediately apparent the moment you get behind the wheel. The controls are intelligently laid out, and the power leather seats are firm and comfortable. Visibility is superior all around, and the ride is extremely quiet.

The trunk offers an impressive 17.5 cubic feet of space, nearly 3.5 cubic feet better than the Accord. And there is a full range of goodies available. Our black tester had foglamps, a sunroof, a rear spoiler, 16-inch chrome wheels, an in-dash six-disc changer, automatic climate control, the aforementioned power seats and full leather upholstery, OnStar, and for rear-seat passengers, the same DVD system offered in Chevy’s Venture Warner Bros. Minivan discussed above, complete with remote.

Power comes from a 3.0-liter, 182-hp, DOHC V6. The chassis could handle even more power, which would make the L300 a really fun ride. The four-speed automatic was one of the better boxes we’ve tested, never picking a wrong gear. ABS-assisted disc brakes are found at all four corners.

Saturn needs to do something to induce test rides in the L-series sedans and wagons. The rationale to date simply seems to be brand retention in customers moving up from the smaller Saturns, but a more aggressive strategy is needed.

Verdict: Original, stylish, dressed up for the dance, can’t get a date.