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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  Good Value - 2005 Saturn ION
  By Breech - November 20 - 5:10 am

  Good performance for the price. Could be faster but poor transmission gearing and low rev limiter hold it back. Not a great car to tune or run at the strip. More of a jack of all trades, master of none type. Typical poor interior quality from GM. Handling and ride quality are good, not too harsh for a daily driver but not totally peformance oriented either. Have had some electrical gremlins and check engine light illuminates from use of aftermarket K&N air intake. Brakes are excellent although the stock rotors warp easily. Overall a decent little car with good perfomance, safety, and the ability to be used as a family car in everyday life. Not disappointed but not sure if Id buy again.

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  2004 Saturn Ion. Great Car for the Money - 2004 Saturn ION
  By Elf - November 16 - 10:00 am

  In 2006 I bought this one owner vehicle used and in pristine condition with only 2,874 miles on it. With the low miles and great appearance I have always considered it as a "new" car purchase. A couple of months ago (June, 2010) I finally replaced the original tires as well as the cars battery. The battery to my surprise was located in the trunk. This was my fourth new car and the first that the battery lasted over 2 years. I guess with it being located in the trunk and away from all of the engine heat it was a good idea after all. Its not a sports car so when cornering at high rates of speed it kinda feels like it wants to get away from you. While driving the interior noise level is low.

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  If I only could do it over again.... - 2004 Saturn ION
  By KCGuy76 - November 3 - 10:53 pm

  Many people wonder why others purchase foreign compact cars. Enter the Saturn Ion. This is my third brand new car; my first, and last Saturn. While I have received numerous compliments on the exterior of the vehicle (Electric Lime with tinted glass and Car Bra), the praise from others can not dismiss the problems with regard to fit, finish, RATTLES and shoddy engineering. After 10 trips to the dealership (recalls, rattles, loose suspension parts, cruise control problems, horn problems, brake pedal linkage issues...etc), I have decided 14 months and 12,000 miles later its time for this car to belong to someone who appreciates a noisy 4 cylinder and enjoys spending time at the dealership.

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  great car - 2004 Saturn ION
  By energy100020 - October 31 - 10:00 am

  special addition,very comfortable and fun to drive,good gas milage,sporty yet functional,great value for the money

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  excellent choice for the $ - 2004 Saturn ION
  By mike smith - October 31 - 10:00 am

  reliable,comfortable,peppy,large trunk,2 ways to jump car{battery in trunk,&" jump post" under the hood],pretty car too! it gets excellent milage. polymer sides{no rust!] a good buy for the $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

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  Saturn Ion 4 door sedan review - 2004 Saturn ION
  By Betty Dopheide - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Over all I am pleased with my Ion. For a 4 cyl. car it has good response when you put you foot to the excelleration pedal.

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  Love this car - 2003 Saturn ION
  By John - October 28 - 8:23 am

  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.

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  Never will leave Saturn - 2005 Saturn ION
  By rich morgan - October 23 - 1:13 am

  I have leased an 05 Saturn ION now for over year now. I love it. It gets excellent gas mileage, takes the snow very well. Sometimes I even think Im in my on little SUV!! I will never go back to another car company again! I had not one recall or any problems with it yet. It did take a hile to get used to the dash offset now but it is much better veiwing of all the instrument panel. I am on my 2nd Saturn now. We are looking forward to the new sedan and convertible.

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  WooHoo, I love MY ION - 2003 Saturn ION
  By sixksense - October 22 - 2:00 am

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

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  Fantastic Car to Buy - 2003 Saturn ION
  By bstu - October 17 - 10:00 am

  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!