Drive Drive Drive

What do you think of the Saturn Ion cars?

I am looking at a newer car(2006) and found a Saturn Ion, 4 door that I like alot. Seems to be very good on gas, but I have never owned a Saturn and don't know anyone who has... I have researched it online a bit.. I have owned a Chevy Cobalt 4 door and was not impressed with the gas milage it got...

Public Comments

1. Junk.....not as bad as a kia or a daewoo but still junk
2. Saturn's small car is a disappointment. Has an acceptable ride and capable handling except for its inconsistent steering. Noisy four-cylinder engine returned less-than-exceptional fuel economy. The interior is cramped,with uncomfortable seats,ill-fitting pieces,and cheep-feeling materials. Reliability has been average,the Ion received a poor in the IIHS side-crash test,even when tested with curtain airbags. It will be phased out this year. Skip the incrediby average Ion altogether,as GM's own Chevy Cobalt is a much better car.
3. Saturns used to be good cars. This second gen Saturn didn't live up to the previous Opel based cars. One magazine called it the most disappointing car to come out of Detroit in the last 20 years. Ouch. Plus the center mounted gauge pod sucks. Saturn's new stuff rocks tho.
4. There are worse cars you could buy. The price on used IONs are resonable and they get 35 mpg on the highway. If the car has low miles and is still covered under factory warranty then I would definately consider it. It's decent cheap transportation. Check out www.carsurvey.org to see what other Saturn owners say. There are a couple different trim levels for ION, Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. 1 is a base model, 2 has more options and 3 is fully loaded. The 2005-2006 sedans had numerous updates like a revised front end and a bigger steering wheel. It still has the goofy center mount gauge cluster, you may like that though. A better automatic transmission was used starting in 2005. Also consider the ION's corporate cousin, the Chevy Cobalt. It has a more conservitive interior and will probably have a better resale value in the long run. But you might pay more for one up front. Coming soon is the ION's replacement called the Astra. It's based on the Opel Astra from GM's Eurpean divison. It will be available in a 3 or 5 door hatchback only, no sedan will be offered.
5. I really don't like Saturn alot because my Ant drove one but what car I recommend to you is a Toyota corolla or a honda civic the reason why they are good on gas and they have no problems also they are good in resale value I hope this would help you good luck when you find your car
6. I have a 2003 Ion and love it. It gets around 300 miles per tank. Though the backseat is a bit cramped, but is not a huge deal...and the trunk is HUGE. I can fit a stroller, a small bike, large diaper bag and groceries! I would recommend it!