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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  old mans coupe - 2003 Saturn ION
  By sdue52 - March 7 - 10:00 am

  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?"

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  first car - 2003 Saturn ION
  By deligirl - March 7 - 10:00 am

  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.

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  Saturn ION3 Sedan 5-speed - 2003 Saturn ION
  By praecelsus - March 7 - 10:00 am

  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.

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  Excellent car , for the price. - 2007 Saturn ION
  By Brian - March 3 - 8:46 am

  I find this Ion to be an excellent car. Keep in mind it is not a luxury car. Basically a no-nonsense, reliable vehicle. I had owned 2 Saturns previous to this one & have found all 3 to be reliable, transportation, & based on cost per mile I couldnt be more satisfied. Unfortunately the polymer exterior panels were dis-continued in 2007. That was one of the main reasons I chose to buy Saturn. They are tough , dont rust or corrode & the paint finish is as attractive after 5 years as it was when new. Not to say these cars are flawless. I have encountered a few minor problems. None that ever put the car out of service & all were repaired under warranty to my satisfaction.

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  Miss the Saturn Dealer - 2007 Saturn ION
  By roving123 - February 24 - 3:06 am

  Bought my Ion 2 new after owning an SL2. Love the way it looks and drives. Currently has 38,000 miles on, several real long trips. The only problems I have had are: 1.Right side mirror fell off.... (I thought someone may have torn it off, but see someone else who did a review lost theirs as well.)2.After driving on a very long trip out west going over some terrible road construction (read big chunky rocks and holes- no road)had to have the strut and mount replaced and exhaust system fixed. All was covered under warranty (it was just under 36000 miles at the time). Havent experienced any problems with steering, noise, bad mpg as some report. Always starts, even in coldest weather.

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  Well My Ion2 is... - 2004 Saturn ION
  By ion2saturn2 - February 23 - 2:00 am

  I Love my ion2 its sleek, reliable, a speed demon when i want it to and it, and it makes me look so totally cool

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  Best you can get - 2006 Saturn ION
  By Yeah4Stomper - February 21 - 1:43 pm

  I have had a VW Jetta, Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla and now the Saturn ION. Help my mother-in-law buy two cars. And speaking from service at the dealership, it has been the easiest car I have ever bought. Saturn dealership does not try to sell you something you do not want, nor did I have to hassle over the price. Car saleperson works on a salary, not volume or commission. Only took an hour and I was out the door - great service. And the car, it is a gem. The car has OnStar, drives well - completely quit. And the power is more than my Nissan Sentra SE-R. I am thinking of trading my wifes car in for another Saturn Ion. She cannot wait.

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  Lemon of a car - 2004 Saturn ION
  By SAnderson - February 18 - 9:30 am

  I bought this car as my first new car. My used Nissan Sentra, that was 12 years old, was beginning to cost me a great deal of money. Now that Ive had this Saturn Ion Coupe of 3.5 years, I should have kept my old Sentra. In 3.5 years, Ive been to the service department more than I care to admit. Its frustrating to buy a new car with so many problems: transmission, starter, etc. I cant wait until I can afford to buy a different, better car.

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  Great little car - 2005 Saturn ION
  By Sylvia White - February 13 - 2:56 am

  Saturn ION is a great little car. I love the steering radius and the handling my the Saturn. The good gas mileage is also a plus because I drive mainly in the city. This is my third Saturn but I like this one better as it is a bit larger inside and out and getting in and out is much easier to do than with my previous cars. Also, the power is very good for passing or getting of the mark.

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  Good buy - 2004 Saturn ION
  By grantboucher - February 12 - 4:23 am

  I like the plastic body no dent panels. This car looks brand new after 50,000 miles. Underated vehicle that offers good value for the dollar. This is my second Saturn with a very positive experience both times. Wake up America, buy American