Saturn of Traverse City honors the sale of the 4 millionth Saturn

When Philip Lieffers (Leefers) of Traverse City purchased a new Saturn Astra from Saturn of Traverse City in December, little did he know that he was becoming a part of Saturn’s corporate history. Lieffers was recently informed that he had purchased the 4-millionth car from the Saturn manufacturer.

Lieffers was the guest of honor today during a noon luncheon that included a parade of Saturn cars and gifts from both Saturn of Traverse City and Saturn Corporation.

The first Saturn was a red sedan that rolled off the assembly line in June of 1990. The 4-millionth Saturn was a black three-door Astra that was delivered to Lieffers in December.

This was Lieffers third Saturn and he says it was his experience with his other vehicles that led to the most recent purchase. “We felt the Saturns were great cars,” Lieffers says. “They have good gas mileage, excellent quality, they’re comfortable and they really fit our lifestyle.” Lieffers says as a Michigan resident with family that works in the automotive industry, he also felt it was important to look at General Motors vehicles first.

Saturn executives say it’s those returning customers who define the brand. “The loyalty of Saturn owners have always been a big part of what makes the brand special,” says Saturn General Manager, Jill Lajdziak (Lay-jack).

“Saturn has been such a strong brand for us here in Northern Michigan that it’s quite an honor for our dealership to sell this milestone vehicle,” says Bill Marsh Jr., one of the owners of Saturn of Traverse City.

Saturn used the occasion to highlight the fact that 82-percent of all Saturns made, are still in operation. “There are many good reasons to buy a Saturn,” says Lajdziak. Now you can add impressive durability to the list along with value, fuel economy, safety and the great retail experience.”

Data from R.L. Polk indicates that 3.3-million of all Saturn vehicles are currently registered. Saturn of Traverse City opened for business in 1992 and has sold over 8,000 Saturn vehicles.