Back at the Geneva auto show, GM previewed a concept of the Opel Meriva, a tall hatchback/MPV combination on the Gamma small-car platform that is due for production in Europe next year. Motor Trend asks a good question: since the new Saturn Astra already isn't selling, is very expensive for GM to produce, and is already due for replacement in 2010, why not bring over the Meriva as Saturn's next entry-level car?

Saturn's current U.S. product lineup is composed almost entirely of Opels, and the company seems to have an affinity for strange door configurations. The Meriva would fit in perfectly, with its ultra-cool FlexDoor "suicide" entry/egress setup, and its small, economical footprint.

It's also a real looker, which is something the troubled GM division desperately needs. If they have any intent to save Saturn, they should do well to consider bold, dramatic moves such as this one, especially since they've already paid for most of the development costs.