Overview & Reviews

The Saturn Ion was the brand's entry-level car from 2003-'07. Aimed at younger buyers, the Ion got what Saturn considered unique styling and design features, and a strong 2.2-liter engine. We never thought very highly of it, however, and took issue with its poor interior quality, unimpressive driving dynamics and bizarre styling inside and out. The Ion gave way to the vastly superior Astra hatchback.

Most Recent Saturn Ion

The Ion launched in 2003 as a replacement for the now-defunct S-Series. Throughout its lifespan, Saturn was vigilant about making minor improvements (particularly for 2005) to the quality of the ride, interior and overall refinement, so we suggest more recent model years if you've really got your heart set on a used Ion (although we hope you don't).

The front-wheel-drive Saturn Ion always came in two body styles: a four-door sedan and the "Quad Coupe." The Quad Coupe was styled like a two-door coupe but actually had two rearward-opening doors similar in style to an extended-cab pickup. For each body style, there were three primary trim levels: a base 1 (dropped for '06), 2 and 3.

All trims came standard with a 145-horsepower 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine. For '06 and later, the Ion 3 sedan gained an optional 2.4-liter four-cylinder with variable valve timing, which was good for 175 hp. It was part of an Enhanced Performance Package -- only available with the Ion 3 -- that also included antilock brakes, traction control and a sport-tuned suspension. A five-speed manual transmission came standard on these main trims, but most used Ions you'll come across will come with the optional four-speed automatic or an earlier continuously variable automatic transmission.

There was an additional performance trim for the Quad Coupe called the Saturn Ion Red Line. It was powered by a supercharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which bumped power up to 205 hp. The Ion Red Line came exclusively with a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission, 17-inch wheels, upgraded disc brakes and a track-tuned suspension package.

One of the Ion's few strong points was its amount of cargo room in all trims. The front passenger seat folded flat, and trunk space was among the largest in the segment. The base Ions came pretty bare-bones, without standard air-conditioning or power mirrors and windows. You had to step up to the Ion 3 for these features, as well as 16-inch wheels and tires, cruise control and an upgraded CD/MP3 audio system. Given the Ion's significant depreciation, we suggest keeping your search to the Ion 3.

In road tests and comparison tests, our reviewers found the Saturn Ion to be among the lower performers in the entry-level sedan and coupe classes. Despite the strong engine, the Ion lacked liveliness, and overall performance was conservative at best. The steering was overly heavy. Even with the continuous interior improvements made throughout its lifespan, the seats were uncomfortable and offered little support. Overall, we suggest looking elsewhere for an economy car.

User Reviews:

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  One Reliable Car - 2004 Saturn ION
  By Mark3152 - August 4 - 10:40 pm

  Purchased the car new and I essentially live in this car. Driving for work through out the midwest 12 months out of the year. Currently has 221,000 miles on it, plan to keep it till it dies and dont expect that to be very soon. I truly believe in scheduled maintenance intervals. Most reliable car my family has ever owned. Ive thought about a new car but this is too good a car to get rid of. Thank you Saturn!

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  Will buy again ! - 2005 Saturn ION
  By Phil - July 22 - 12:23 pm

  I havent had any problems with this car since I bought it new. I get 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the freeway at 75 to 80 mph. Its real easy to change the oil and filter. In the winter this car really handles the snow, up to 10 inches no problem. Has lots of power for a small car, stomp on it from a dead start and it will break the tires loose.

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  Not too happy with my Saturn right now - 2006 Saturn ION
  By Kim - July 20 - 2:56 pm

  I purchased a 2006 Saturn Ion 2 after the transmission went out in my Cavalier. My car only has 44,000 miles on it and the electrical power steering unit went out in it already. It is going to cost me about $1500 to get it fixed. The warranty conveniently ran out so I have to pay for this out of my pocket. I was told that since 2004 when they started using these units they have had nothing but problems with them. I checked with Saturn there have been no recalls issued on the units either.

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  Handles like a dream - 2003 Saturn ION
  By LuvMyIon1 - July 13 - 2:00 am

  My Ion is a 5-speed. I average 32 MPG around town and love the way it handles. We used to own an Acura Legend and this handles much the same way.

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  Good car - 2003 Saturn ION
  By ricksher - July 13 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car for those that are looking for a car that is not going to cost them 20,000. This car had what we wanted and it drives great!

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  Great mileage. Fun to Drive - 2007 Saturn ION
  By Olddrvr - July 10 - 2:23 am

  Bought this car for the mileage and am getting 32 mpg overall. Surprised on how much fun it is to drive. The 5spd shifts smooth, is peppy and car corners excellent. The large cargo area with independent folding rear and front seats and rear doors make this coupe a great value. Might want larger outside mirrors, better vision out rear side windows and a little more response in the steering. Otherwise its much better than adverised and must be a completely different car than the editors drove? Would recommend.

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  I love my ION! - 2003 Saturn ION
  By hritch - July 8 - 10:00 am

  This car is fun to drive. The small steering wheel is just my size (56" female driver) and the center mounted panel is easy to look at. I love all the features about this car that I wouldnt expect to find on a car under $20,000 -- power everything, auto headlights, remote entry, cruise control, ABS, sunroof, etc.

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  Non start problems - 2003 Saturn ION
  By Unsatisfied - July 7 - 9:56 am

  Why wont Saturn stand behind their vehicles? Only a week after purchasing my vehicle it wont start. Local repair shop said probably starter, decided to do a little research first, omg I cant believe the thousands of complaints on line. Dealers replace ignition switch which is faulty in the first place but they do not acknowledge that. Guess what the switch if you are lucky only lasts a year if that and then you are stuck with the same repair every year.

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  ION is the car for the money! - 2006 Saturn ION
  By tspielman - July 6 - 4:40 am

  Ive had my ION for 600 miles now and I love it! The 5 speed shifts smooth and fast. It tells you when to shift too! I got the base model for $13,500. The dashboard is a clever design. Took one day to get used too! I have test driven just about every car in this price range and this car has the best pick up for the price. The 2.2l engine is amazing! The interior is very roomy. Seats are comfy but could use a little more comfortable seats! But for this price cant really ask for a lot! Another downside when you have passengers is either your legs get squished or theirs if your seat is slid all the way back! Theres less then 8" of legroom for the passengers.

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  Great Car For The Price - 2006 Saturn ION
  By Mark in Columbus, OH - July 1 - 6:46 pm

  This is my second Saturn, replacing my 97 SL sedan. I am in love. The quality of the materials inside is head and shoulders above the SL. The power from my optional 2.4L engine is amazing. Fuel economy is acceptable, but worse than the SL, but at nearly double the horses its a fine trade off. I took advantage of the end of year and end of model year deals and got out the door $3500 below sticker, tax, title and tags included. I just hope I get as many years (9) and miles (190,000) out this new car that I got out of my beloved SL.