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 201 through 210 of 280.00
  • just compare and see the diffrence - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    BLAST TO DRIVE, 138O0 OTD PAYMENTS UNDER 230 FOR A ION 2 MANUAL,CD PLAYER PW LOCKS, DIFFRENT FROM THE ORDINARY, 140 HP PERTTY QUICK FOR PRICE,0% INTREST PLUS $1500 IN REBATES.

  • Love this car - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    This car has been a great investment. I love the way it drives, including a tight turning radius and surprising pickup. Wouldnt hesitate at all to buy this one all over again. Too bad Saturn is history.

  • WooHoo, I love MY ION - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    Great car, very fun to drive. Saturn has hit the spot with this car.

  • Fantastic Car to Buy - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    My experience with this car so far has been great as expected. The car buying experience at Saturn was not intimidating in any way. There are many convenient features with this car and it is much safer than many cars in its class, I was also looking into buying a Hyndai Elantra until I realized though research how much of a death trap they are. My Ion is speedy with quick pick-up ( I commute on the interstate), and is very roomy and comfortable for 5 passengers. I couldnt have made a better decision!

  • Saturn does NOT deliver - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I had FOUR rentals in two months due to problems. I called Saturn several times and spoke to several people. Their response was, and I quote: "Were sorry, but your warranty doesnt cover inconvenience." Nice, huh. The car has a LOT of interior noise: rattles, squeaks, clicks, you name it. It doesnt handle well when turning either, partly because the steering wheel is stiff, but also because it doesnt hug the road. And, you might want to consider getting some extra padding in your seat because its a bumpy ride. Overall, the car is okay to drive and looks nice, but prepare for many trips to the dealer...and a lot of hot air from the Saturn Corporation.

  • WONDERFUL Car - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    Such an intelligently engineered car! Center-gauges, rear access doors, fold-down seats, shoulder-strap adjustable for a child, quality build, tight turning radius, ...wonderful. Had owned only Toyotas before, but this Ion 3 is fresh and fun. For the price of a base Toy, I have a loaded Ion 3 (and dont think Im not enjoying the leather seats and powerful sound system!). If this is your first Saturn, ask your dealer about the $500 "Conquest" incentive. Thank you Saturn. When this car eventually dies, as Arnie says, "Ill be back."

  • Love my Ion - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    Well, I have had my ION3 going on two months now and I absolutly love it! I did alot of research on several vehicles before making my decision and I am pretty proud of myself for going to saturn. I got used to the center IP in a few hours and I love the smaller steering wheel.

  • Worth a Look - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I just rolled my 03 Ion to 78,000 miles. Its been no better or worse than any other car Ive owned. The only non-scheduled maintenence issues Ive encountered were a bad tire, but you cant blame that on Saturn. Also, my auto transmission had a shift flare issue which the dealership fixed under warranty by replacing the valve body. Lastly, I had my left front wheel bearing go bad around 50,000. I dont know how people who have reviewed this car drive to get their poor gas mileage, but Ive been very satisfied with mine. I get 22-25mpg city, and 34-36mpg highway. Note that I do use a K&N air filter.

  • Pure Delight - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I have found that America can build a car that is reliable, fun to drive and a blast to drive. This car is tight and corners much better than my 2001 Civic ever did.

  • 2003 ION needs work - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    My experience with two 2003 Ions suggested Saturn put GMs new Delta chassis too early. A solid body and good handling were appreciated. Freeway cruising was quiet but nervous. Build quality was awful - both cars had tons of squeaks, rattles, ill fitting parts, and transmission and engine glitches two service centers could not repair. 24 mpg was the rule but acceleration not so great (5 speed helped on hills but often shifted harshly). The buying experience was pleasant, but the service was awful. Hopefully the 2004 and 2005 versions will be better.

Saturn ION Reviews By Year:
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