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 211 through 220 of 280.00
  • I LOVE MY NEW QUAD COUPE - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I knew when I went to the dealer what I wanted... but I was even more inclined to buy with the no-hassle, helpful salesman. I LOVE my new car. It is sporty, easy to handle, and just plain fun. THE turning radius is AMAZING. The kids love the rear access doors... and the trunk space is HUGE. I disagree with the "official rating."

  • disappointed - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    The transmission is lacking power & performance. A possible bearing in the frontend is knocking. The body doesnt match up like it should. Something in the doors is scratching the glass. The dealership has looked at & tried to repair these things, but wants someone from the manufacturer to look at it. This may be in the first week or two of September.

  • Best Saturn Car Yet! - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    The ION3 is a fantastic automobile and a great value for the price. I have owned two previous Saturn cars and although I liked them very much, the ION is the best car Saturn has created yet. I love this car!

  • Nice car - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    This is my first Saturn and I like it so far. The dealership experience was good and they were very fast.

  • good, but could be better. - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    i like the ability to turn in tight places and the smaller steering wheel gives it a racing car feel. i do not like the leather seats. the quality of leather is very poor.

  • old mans coupe - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I have a little age on me, but I still like a sporty ride. I just purchased a bright red Saturn Quad Coupe, with tan leather and all the goodies. I like the tight feel of the car. The sport suspension is firm but you got to love the way the car hugs the apex of a curve. The gauge pod is a great idea, and I like it. It is easy to keep you eyes on the road. The car is a blast to drive, and attracts a lot of attention. The most common reaction is "THAT IS A SATURN?"

  • first car - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    out of all the cars i test drove while looking for a car, the ion was the most car for not as much money as the others. its luxury and pep make it a great buy.

  • Saturn ION3 Sedan 5-speed - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    Sold my BMW 540i to go back to a Saturn; my first Saturn SL1 ran 170k miles with little non-recurring maintenance. Vehicle is solid, runs quieter than the original SL series. 5 speed transmission much smoother with easier clutch than original SL series. Handling is a little soft, but adequate feel for the road makes it from the tires to the steering wheel. Decent options for sound and safety. Excellent GMAC incentives for current Saturn owners, insurance is low, economy high. Doesnt perform like the 540i, but much easier on the wallet in terms of fuel, maintenance & insurance. It is fun to drive too.

  • good little car - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    Overall its a very good car and my wife and I can attest to the "accordion" style safety frame that protects all occupants in the cabin. For years we suffered with the ignition and spent countless hours waiting for the alarm to "reset" so that we could once again attempt to start the vehicle. But the thing that makes you the most upset is that the mechanics at the Saturn dealer act like they had never heard of this problem before. It was like Christmas day when GM was forced to make the ignition/key problem a recall and fortunately for us it took care of all of the starting problems and we could once again not have to worry about leaving the house 15 minutes early for fear of the car not starting. But now its started having a problem with the enginge light" coming on in relation with the evac system. First we replaced the gas cap, ($15) then the purge solenoid and the vent control, ($197.) after that didnt work, we are currently dropping the gas tank replacing the pressure solenoid another ($237) I dont know if this is GMs fault or simply that American auto makers can not manufacture good electrical components because my Jeep Grand Cherokee needed several solenoids and eventually a new PCM and my new Cadillac SRX is having issues with its computer and traction control system. (Fortunately the Cad is under warranty) When it comes to the end of the day the Ion has been a pretty good car, a little bumpy and rickety but actually is not any worse than my new Cad when it comes to the electronics. I dont understand how anyone could say they hate this car or that it is a piece of junk? These people must just think that all you do to a car is put gas in it and go! LOL Vehicles need your love and attention, take care of your car and it will take care of you.

  • A real LEMON! - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    Poor acceleration, terrible shifting, very uncomfortable seating, drinks gas like water.

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