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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  ION 3 & ME - 2003 Saturn ION
  By Wanda Owner - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I have only had my ION 3 for five days now but have had great fun with it. The ride is wonderful. Handling every turn and corner with ease. The cabin space is comfortable. And the dash is centered with a smaller stiring wheel, I am over 6 foot tall and that is great for not knocking my knees every time I get in. Over all ... I am very satisfied with my new car.

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  Good car, but needs Critical Improvement - 2003 Saturn ION
  By sack - January 10 - 10:00 am

  The Saturn 2 Ion handles well-- with cornering and with highway /city driving. Sound system is also quite good. The center-mounted console one gets used to very quickly...dont let that issue put you off. Overall, a nice car and a good value to boot!

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  Great! - 2003 Saturn ION
  By Rydlund - January 10 - 10:00 am

  We found our Ion 2 to be a great investment. We are very satisfied. The one and only thing that we dont like is the interior. It is a light tan color, and stains very easily. Other than that, the Saturn Ion is a great car!

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  Great - 2003 Saturn ION
  By Rydlund - January 10 - 10:00 am

  The Saturn Ion is a great vehicle. It has great gas milage, as well as being a great car all around.

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  Luv My ION! - 2007 Saturn ION
  By CptnKrk - January 9 - 2:33 pm

  I purchased this car after shopping the Honda Civic based on ride performance and equipment for the money. I figured the $3500 I saved would make up for a 3 mile per gallon difference. I drive 90 miles a day and am averaging 37 mpg with a high of 40.5mpg and a low of 34mpg. Mileage has increased at each fill. I now have 6000 miles on the car and have loved every mile. I love the room I have even though I am signficantly larger than average.