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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  Best Car Ever - 2004 Saturn ION
  By AE2001 - January 17 - 10:00 am

  Besides the Ion being an excellent car, the Saturn dealerships have excellent staff that go out of the way to make sure the customer is happy! No hassel!

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  I love my Ion! - 2004 Saturn ION
  By KrazyJax7 - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I am thrilled with my Saturn Ion Coupe. It is comfortable and reliable, and I love the staff at Saturn. They take care of me and my car. If I had a million dollars, I would still buy an Ion all over again.

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  Ion puts the fun in funky - 2004 Saturn ION
  By Arkle - January 17 - 10:00 am

  So far this car has really impressed me. Its sporty and cute, great added on features such as 6 disc cd changer, spoiler, and sunroof. Black detailing on the otherwise tan leather seats is different and cool. I thought it would be difficult to transition from my much beloved Honda Accord, but it has matched up on all features except visibility isnt as good (but it really is hard to beat an accord on that) and the backseat leg room is non existant when the front seats are fully back. But thats alright by me, I never have to sit back there and the drivers seat is very comfy!

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  My Daily Drive - 2004 Saturn ION
  By Bobby W. - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I drive my Ion 3 86 miles round trip to work and back 5 days per week. With a sunroof and 140 horses under the hood it is an awesome drive everyday. A 5 speed auto that performs like a 5 speed manual. The ride and handling work together for optimal comfort and control. Braking is also up to par as well.

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  ION owner - 2004 Saturn ION
  By BDubb - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I really like this cars its fun and easy to drive.

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  Proud Mother - 2004 Saturn ION
  By cara13 - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I own the Saturn Ion Coupe who says a mom cant have a sports car. I love my Saturn. Have not had any problems with it. The small steering wheel really allows very good handling and the side suicide doors make it such easy access for my little ones. I love the fact that they can not open the doors from inside. I drive down the street and people stop and stare. For the amount of money paid for the car I feel like I am driving a mercedes for the comments and stares I get while out about town. Can not say enough good things about the car and dealership. Great bunch of people at Saturn. Totally loving my new car.

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  OK car - 2003 Saturn ION
  By Leo - January 14 - 11:13 pm

  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.

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  Lemon - 2006 Saturn ION
  By Carole - January 13 - 1:40 am

  We purchased a 2006 Ion in May of 2007 for our teenage daughter. While the look is sporty, the quality of the car is cheap. We have had the car in the shop 5 times since owning it for only a year and a half! The first time we had a heavy rain and the front passenger side of the car was drenched with water from some sort of leak. Then the automatic window stop working. It went to the shop 2 times for that. Next the key got stuck in the engine and could not turn the car off. And just this week the power steering went out and the whole steering column had to be changed. The engine light goes on and off also. The car is cheap and unreliable. I will never buy another Saturn again

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  Not a good compact sedan... - 2003 Saturn ION
  By RuddigerPez - January 8 - 8:20 pm

  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.

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  My Third Saturn - 2006 Saturn ION
  By Cherri - December 26 - 8:20 am

  When I decided to get a new car I knew it would be a Saturn. My ION is the best. Its very roomy and handles very well on the road, and you will always be treated very well at a Saturn dealership.