More and more industry analysts seem to agree that at some point in the next two years, Saturn retailers will begin selling a compact car that's based on the Renault Samsung SM3 you see in the picture above. While there has been evidence published to support this theory, it is only speculative at this time since none of the parties involved — Saturn, Roger Penske, or Renault-Samsung — have made any official announcements. But it doesn't hurt to take a closer look, right?

The new 2010 SM3 is a handsome little sedan that would fit right in alongside the Aura, Outlook, and Vue in Saturn's current lineup. While the SM3 is large for the compact class, Renault-Samsung has managed to achieve impressive fuel economy (more than 35mpg) thanks to a Nissan H4M four-cylinder powerplant and "Xtronic" transmission. The H4M is one of the newest engines to be developed under the Renault-Nissan alliance.

Saturn has a reputation for building safe vehicles, and it will be important for the brand to continue to offer state-of-the-art safety systems and impressive crash protection in whatever cars it sells in the future. The SM3 offers advanced features like Electronic Brake Force Distribution – Anti lock Braking System (EBFD-ABS), as well as a Brake Assist System (BAS) that the determines when sudden braking is necessary and increases braking power. For what its worth, Renault-Samsung says the vehicle will achieve the highest rating in offset crash safety performance (5 stars). Side and curtain airbags are available on all models.

According to Renault-Samsung, the SM3 is available in Korea with five trim levels and a wide variety of features:

• PE model, the entry model, equips the H4M engine and Xtronic transmission, EBD-ABS (BAS included), driver seat / passenger seat airbag, audio remote control, passenger one-touch safety power window.
• SE includes all the basic features of the PE model adding fog lamps, 16" alloy wheels, and Bluetooth audio remote control for MP3 streaming.
• LE equips all of the SE model's basic features adding dual-zone air conditioner, rear air ventilation, front heated seats, electronically foldable outside mirrors, auto lighting head lamp, rain sensing wiper, and premium audio with Arkamys 3D sound system.
• LE Plus model is furnished with many luxurious features like the Intelligent Smart Card System, 17" alloy wheels, rear parking aid system, and chrome-coated waistline molding.
• RE is the luxurious flagship model of the SM3, features leather seating, solar control glass, ECM (Electronic Chromic Mirror), Auditorium Sound System, and a USB/iPod Connector.

See more than 20 new photos of the SM3 online, along with pictures showing more available features, in the SaturnFans.com Photo Gallery.

Source: Renault-Samsung