2003 Saturn ION Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.28/5 Average
280 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

After 12 long years in production, Saturn is finally retiring its aging S-Series sedan and coupe in favor of the all-new Saturn Ion sedan and innovative quad coupe.

Pros:
  • Innovative rear-access doors on coupe, customer-focused dealers, numerous personalization options, great cargo capacity.
Cons:
  • Build quality not up to segment standards, unusual styling, lack of established service and repair history.

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 110 of 280.00
  • A Very Mixed Bag - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I drive over 20K/year for work, and need a reliable and economical vehicle. The Saturn Ion specs out much better than the Cavalier that Im used to driving, plus my wife is in love with the Ions looks and features. What I didnt know is that the drivers seat would hurt my back so badly after driving for 30 miles or more. I would recommend NOT buying this car to anyone who has had any kind of back problems or tight muscles. Also, there is too little useable storage space within easy reach of the driver; there isnt even a safe place to put a cell phone with an earpiece attached. Im wondering what kind of individual they designed this car for?

  • ION 3 rocks!! - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    This car is fun and sporty. It handles extremely well in the mountains and on curves. Plenty of power and just a joy to drive. This is my first Saturn and it wont be my last.

  • what fun! - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I have truly enjoyed owning this car. For the money its the best comuter car out there. Im very tall and I like the driver leg room. Never intended to put anyone in the back seat. No mechanical problems to date. The purchase process was fantastic. Its a little noisy on the highway but hey, you cant have it all for well under 20K.

  • A Car To Keep - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I got my used 2003 Saturn with only 30, 000 miles for $9,500 at a local Saturn dealership back in 2007. The clerks were very friendly. I have to say that there are way more pros than cons for this car. Of course, I do not live in a very cold environment, so I do not have start up issues. Gas mileage with only 12.5 gallons is amazing. This car came with a battery, and for four years I did not replace it. I should have found out how old it was, because I recently got a new one. This sucker is tough! It would still start, and the alternator was in great shape. It is very crash-safety and is very smooth on the road.

  • So many better vehicles for the money - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    Chose an ION because I was trading in an SL2 and wanted the best value. Unfortunately, this car disappointed at every turn. Poor performance, with a loud engine, horrible road noise and terrible mileage (currently at about 26 hwy with driver only). Interior layout looked innovative but in all practicality it just doesnt work. Drivers seat is the most uncomfortable Ive ever experienced. And the GM passlock issue has reared its ugly head with my model, though no recall has been issued. I made a horrible decision considering the Corolla, Civic, or Sentra were all much better vehicles for the same price at the time of purchase. It is a mistake I will not make again.

  • A fun Drive - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    Unique Styling for a compact car. More car for the price.

  • I love my Saturn Ion 2 - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    Well, Ive only owned it for a month ... but so far ... I really love my new Saturn. Its fun to drive, incredibly quick and nimble on the road, I find the center instrument console very easy to view, and I really like the external styling of the car.

  • Second Saturn - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I ended up with a new, and better equipped, car for over 400 not-adjusted- for-inflation bucks cheaper than I paid for my old 95. Same as last time, I found a car equipped exactly as I wanted on the lot, they didnt try to hit me with the dealer profit pack (window etching fee pre-printed on contract, they crossed it off after asking me if I wanted it-I didnt) and negotiations were quick and pleasant. I got the discount and free 36K maintenance with the coupon they sent me.

  • Great new car - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    Wednesday: Old Geo dies at 215K miles. Thursday: Contacted GM dealers (Olds, Saturn, Chevy). Only Saturn offers to drive a car over to me at lunchtime for a test drive. Friday: Test drive Ion; with available options, has all the features I really wanted. Saturday: I looked at other cars on my own. Drag hubby to see Ion for his opinion. He likes it and decides to get one also! ION 3 had all the features I required. But I dont just shop cars; the sales force has a big impact. Saturn was by far the most responsive. Test drive was fine and at $8K off (GMcard rebates, GM loyalty and manufacturer rebates) off, was a steal at under $11K.

  • A Fun, Safe Car - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I purchased an Ion in January. The car handles well, I really enjoy the placement of the speedometer. The car has a personality and distinctiveness that is very rare to find in a car these days. I own a 5-Speed manual and average around 32 miles to the gallon around town. The car is also safe. Passengers are often amazed at the leg room that is available. I also feel like the dealership has done a great job seeking to satisfy me. The only setback is that there was a problem with the running lights, however, the dealership has been great in dealing with this problem.

Saturn ION Reviews By Year:
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