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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  Fun and efficient! - 2005 Saturn ION
  By Hi-Gloss - December 18 - 9:46 am

  Bought my Ion used, mainly for the gas mileage since I drive about 2500 miles a month. It doesnt disappoint, averaging 30 (mostly highway driving). Styling is a little quirky, but it works. The rear doors on the coupe are a big plus! Ive had no problems with the car; build quality is better than I expected from Saturn. Its quieter and better handling than most cars of its size, and comfort is about equal although the steering wheel is too far a reach. I sell cars for a living, and had my choice of several comparable cars. Im happy I chose the Ion.

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  1 year down the road - 2007 Saturn ION
  By Dave - December 18 - 2:56 am

  I bought an Ion3 Quad Coupe 2.4 based on the test drive. I was replacing a 2001 Ford Focus ZX3. I found the Ion3 has a softer ride & corners better. Much less lean. I have not had to return it to the dealer for other than routine required maintenance. I liked my Focus but I love my Ion3. Both equipted with auto trans. The Ion3 is just a more comfortable car to drive. I have not had it on any trips on the highway, just in city driving. I check my mileage on each tank & it is about 25-26 MPG. I have no clue what the highway milage is. I am just as pleased with the car today as the day I bought it. Dent resistent panels are a plus, too bad 07 is the last year for them.

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  Enjoying the Ion 2 - 2005 Saturn ION
  By miss_nicole - December 14 - 2:45 am

  I recently bought my 2005 Saturn Ion 2 in Febuary 2011 with 38k miles. and the only problem ive had with my car so far was the Coolant Sensor which i had to replace last month. Other than that i have had no other issues. It gets good gas mileage and drives smooth.

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  Would not buy another Saturn - 2006 Saturn ION
  By Kathy - December 9 - 2:10 pm

  The car only got about 17 MPG in town. Hwy mpg was what it was supposed to be. At 40,000 miles, the car would not start after filling up with gas. After a couple tries, had to push on gas pedal to start. Also, at 45,000 miles, ignition went completely out and had to replace! Looking to trade car asap.

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  Beware: Horrible Car!!! - 2006 Saturn ION
  By gibbys1 - December 8 - 12:55 pm

  My 2006 Saturn Ion has been nothing but a money pit. Sure the first couple years were great...no problems. Then, the issues started. My car now has 59,000 miles on it and I have had to replace the track in the drivers door because my window actually fell down into the door and wouldnt come back up. It has no A/C because no one can figure out whats wrong with it. I have also had to replace the brakes numerous times, replaced sensors because the lights would stay on (the car thought the doors werent shut) and now I have an issue where the car doesnt want to start on cold mornings. This car just is not worth it anymore. Im frustrated, poor and just cant take much more!!!

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  Problems with Saturn - 2003 Saturn ION
  By Window125 - December 5 - 2:00 am

  We purchased a Saturn Ion 3 on New Years eve. The car has been OK to drive with adequate power and a smooth ride. The first day we drove the car home we had electric problems with the dash. First the hands(which are lighted)of the dial started flashing, next the power steering light and air bag lights came on as well as the ABS light. We were first told that the voltage regulator was bad but it ended up being the dash computer. After 3 trips we decided enough was enough and sent it back under Saturns 30 day satisfaction warranty. I think this car will be a good model but that maybe a while away after more testing.

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  Pleased - 2007 Saturn ION
  By Pleased - December 4 - 5:40 am

  I bought my Saturn used (22000 miles). Ive only had it for 4 months, but I am extrememly pleased. Gas mileage is great 26/27 in town, 31/33 highway. I find that the car has plenty of power and I like the ease of parking. The only drawback is the comfort level. Im not a small guy, 511" 250+. I find that theres not a lot of leg room for the driver. Of course I was driving an F150 before.

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  The best!!!! - 2003 Saturn ION
  By cazzz - November 29 - 10:00 am

  I had owned a 96 SL2, which I loved. I thought there was no possibility of a better car out there. I was wrong. Unfortunatelty, my SL2 was totalled, which I walked away from absolutely fine after a major incident with a full size SUV, and I was crushed. So I went to my local Saturn dealer (I wouldnt think of going anywhere else) and purchased a new ION 3, since the S- series was no longer being produced. Holy cow, they did it!!! More power, bigger inside, and even nicer riding than my SL2 was! Hats off to the boys down in Saturn-land, you have yourselves a winner!!!!!

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  4th Saturn -- good made better - 2003 Saturn ION
  By Taluga - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Compared to my much-loved 97 SL2, the Ion 3 is taller, roomier, has more cargo area. The electric steering and the center-mounted gauges take a little getting-used-to, but the handling in the dry and the wet is excellent. Gas mileage runs a couple of mpg lower. Power profile means different shift points and a learning curve. Strong buy recommendation.

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  just compare and see the diffrence - 2003 Saturn ION
  By ELAINE - November 24 - 10:00 am

  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.