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 251 through 260 of 280.00
  • OK car - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    OK car for its price. Had minor problem with the electric system first year. Original set of tires of very bad quality and no warranty on them at all. On average 30mpg, which is great. Shock absorbing system is bad, can feel any bump on a road. Good ride otherwise. A bit rough switching between gears. Services not of great quality and not that cheap at all, I would say, a bit expensive for an entry level car.

  • Not a good compact sedan... - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    There are much better compact sedans out there for your money. Had many issues with my Ion that I purchased new in 2003. Have had the "no start" issue, the OEM tires were horrible, the back brakes were faulty, and had numerous issues in the FWD linkage. Plus, engine and road noise are terrible, mileage was disappointing for this engine (22 HWY in MN winter, 25 HWY in summer) and the interior materials are cheap, cheap, cheap. My friend bought a Corolla months after I got mine for a similar price and it was superior in every way. Was kicking myself all they way until I traded in for a new Mazda6 this year.

  • 2003 Ion 1 - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I have owned my Ion for 8 months now. This car has been a dream. Everyone who has ridden in or driven my Ion, loves it. The Saturn Ion sells itself i.e. As I was pulling into my driveway, ( I park outside), a neighbor who lives atleast 20 homes down stopped to ask what kind of car is that and asked how much I like it. I told him it is the funniest car I have ever driven and the styling is great both inside and out, it is a beautiful Saturn. 2 days later, I see him driving in his own Saturn Ion. It commonly gets confused with Audi. I have heard that from many a people. Gotta love the unique styling!

  • Quad coupe - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I bought this car in april. I was pleasantly surprised this vehicle. I still like it 8500 miles later. It has good performance, comfort, and convenience considery its economy car class. Its alot of car for what you pay for it and its practical and fun to drive. I drove a honda civic as well, and this car blows it away. Lots more power and interior room (im 6 3" and have plenty of head and leg room).

  • Great car for the money - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    When I decided to purchase a new car, I wanted an a nice, reliable and somewhat inexpensive one. In a nut shell, I didnt want a car payment. After looking for several months, I ended up with a previously owned Saturn Ion (it was 1.5 yrs old.) Its cute, reliable and cheap, but best of all it doesnt look or drive like a cheap car. Its a small car that doesnt drive like a small car. It is also a very comfortable ride on long trips, no aching back or sore seat, unlike some of the small Japanese cars Ive traveled in. Finally, the mpg is great. I get 36mpg hwy.

  • Quad 4 - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    We had not originally considered the Ion in our search for a new car, but after we test drove the Quad 4, it was far superior to the Honda, Toyota and Volkswagen in looks, power, roominess and handling. The unique features on the Ion including the center dash gages, the electric assist power steering and the battery in the trunk all made sense. The final decision on our purchase was the zero % financing and the much lower cost for insurance.

  • My second Saturn and I love it!! - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    This is my second Saturn purchase and I am a true believer now. My first experience was great and the second time out did not let me down. The company is everything they advertise it to be. Their cars are dependable, sturdy, fuel efficient, stylish, and fun to drive.

  • My Third Saturn - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    So far, I really like this car. Ive had a Saturn S series and a Saturn L series in the past. The trunk is huge and the back seat is set up higher which is great for car seats. Its not perfect, but to find a car that was I would have spend 5K more and that wasnt something I was willing to do. Its a good car for the money.

  • great car - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    I compared everything in its class...Saturn reputation really won me over...the more time I spend in the car the better I like it...awesome

  • Shouldnt Have Bought It - 2003 Saturn ION
    By -

    My husband and I needed a cheap car fast (his completely died) but we wanted something that we would keep for awhile and liked the looks of. The ION has disappointed us pretty much from the start. The only thing we really like is that it is attractive from the outside. The frame flexes and creaks when doing something as simple as going over speed bumps. That isnt very comforting considering that one of the reasons we bought it was its safety ratings. We have had it for about a year and a half and are probably going to trade it in for a compact pick-up truck. If we are going to have something this uncomfortable to drive, it might as well be useful.

Saturn ION Reviews By Year:
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