For some time now, General Motors had been in talks with trying to sell off some of its brands, and an official deal has now been worked out between GM and Roger Penske for the sale of the Saturn division. According to a press release issued by General Motors, this move will save more than 350 dealerships and 13,000 jobs.

"For nearly twenty years Saturn has focused on treating the customer right. We share that philosophy, and we want to build on those strengths," says Penske. In this deal, Penske will obtain all of the rights to the Saturn brand, including additional Saturn assets. General Motors will continue to build the Aura, Vue, and Outlook on a contract basis, so we're inclined to believe that the Astra and Sky are set to be axed in the very near future.

The full purchase deal is scheduled to take place in the third quarter of 2009 for an undisclosed sum of money, pending closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Click through the post to read the official press release.

    General Motors, Penske outline proposed deal for purchase of Saturn

    Transaction would save more than 13,000 jobs; preserves renowned brand and retail network

    Detroit — General Motors Corp. and Penske Automotive Group today confirmed details of a proposed transaction under which Penske would acquire the Saturn brand. If completed, the deal would save more than 350 dealerships and 13,000 jobs at Saturn and its retailers in the United States, and would preserve the customer-focused Saturn brand.

    The proposed transaction is part of GM's rebuilding efforts outlined in the viability plan that was submitted to the U.S. government earlier this year. Under the terms in the memorandum of understanding, Penske would obtain the rights to the brand as well as certain other Saturn assets. GM would continue production, on a contract basis, of the Saturn Aura, Vue and Outlook.

    "This is the combination of two iconic teams: Saturn and Penske," said Saturn general manager Jill Lajdziak. "GM had the vision to create Saturn and has the desire to see it succeed in the future."

    "Saturn has a passionate customer base and outstanding dealer network," said Roger Penske, chairman of Penske Automotive Group. "For nearly 20 years Saturn has focused on treating the customer right. We share that philosophy, and we want to build on those strengths."

    Saturn began selling cars in 1990 and has sold more than 4 million vehicles. More than 80 percent of those vehicles are still in operation, according to data from R.L. Polk. Saturn has regularly scored among the industry leaders for non-luxury brands in customer satisfaction surveys.

    "There has been a groundswell of support for Saturn, with our retailers and owners urging us to save the brand," said Lajdziak. "We heard their call loud and clear, and it inspired us as we worked to secure Saturn's future."

    The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of this year and is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Financial terms of the agreement will not be disclosed at this time.