2005 Saturn ION Review
2005 Saturn ION Review
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Used ION for sale
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Low price, customer-focused dealers, large trunk capacity, coupe's innovative rear access doors, solid ride and handling dynamics.
Cons
- Limited rear legroom, dash layout takes some getting used to, interior materials still aren't class-leading.
What’s new
Significant changes accompany the Ion into 2005. A revised front fascia on sedans, as well as various other exterior trim and wheel upgrades, spruce up the Ion's outward appearance. Inside, new front and rear seats (on level 2 and 3 models) provide substantial comfort improvements, and a new steering wheel replaces last year's go-kartlike unit. Interior trim and materials have also been refined. Substantial improvements to noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) have been made possible through the use of Quiet Steel for the plenum and dash, an acoustic engine cover, and other powertrain and insulation enhancements. The electric power steering has been recalibrated, and various suspension revisions improve ride and handling. A four-speed automatic transmission replaces last year's five-speed unit and the coupe's CVT unit.
Edmunds says
Saturn has taken negative feedback to heart and made significant enhancements to the Ion. The result is a more polished machine that is much more competitive with its peers.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2005 Saturn ION 1 4dr Sedan (2.2L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$162/mo for ION 1
ION 1
vs
$179/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2005 Saturn ION.
5 star(58%)
4 star(23%)
3 star(9%)
2 star(8%)
1 star(2%)
163 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.75 out of 5 stars
Still surprises me everyday
RL-2005, 11/05/2007
2005 Saturn ION Red Line 4dr Quad Coupe (2.0L 4cyl S/C 5M)
I've had this car for two years and it still puts a smile on my face to drive it 40 miles to work everyday. GM had the injector and pulley kit and catback exhaust that made the car even better for very low cost. I love having a fast, reliable car that handles great and did not break the bank. GM should make all their cars like this one. I may have to upgrade to the turbo Cobalt SS … next year.
2.5 out of 5 stars
Good Bang For The Buck
Courtney, 10/03/2010
2005 Saturn ION 2 4dr Sedan (2.2L 4cyl 4A)
I bought the car with 130,000 on it. It now has 150,000 and no problems at all. I was not fond of this car at all but after driving it for a year it really grew on me. granted it's no jewel but 20 bucks to fill the tank, 20 bucks for an oil change and virtually maintenance free, how could you complain? The fact that the car is basically dent proof is another plus, i was in two accidents … with this car and there is literally not a scratch on it. it's slow compared to other cars but gives you NO problems. Although i am getting a new car i must say that i will miss this car and hope that i have as much good luck with my ion as i do my altima. Might not be the best but you wont regret it. honestly.
4 out of 5 stars
Love My Saturn, sad I 2 have to replace
Mandy, 12/27/2009
2005 Saturn ION 2 4dr Sedan (2.2L 4cyl 4A)
I bought my Saturn new with 4 miles on it, it now has 140,000. Never done a thing to it except change oil, new tires and 1 battery! I live in the country and this tiny car has no problems handling the dirt roads. Great in ice and snow too! Great gas milage. Sad they won't be making Saturn anymore. With 140K its time to replace it while I have the finances to.
3.88 out of 5 stars
gotta give it credit
nathan, 11/04/2009
2005 Saturn ION 1 4dr Sedan (2.2L 4cyl 4A)
i'v gotta give this car good props i picked it up for $5,500 and didnt like it one bit after driving it for awhile it grew on me i,v never had any problems with any saturn i,v ever owned (3) and my ion is no exception the dealer told me about common problems with ions and i have not had one off them happen to me i,v grown to really like my ion and have put 18 inch wheels on it and it … does look good i,m happy i bought this car its no jewl but for the money my saturn ion was a great deal and a great car
2005 ION Highlights
Sedan
1
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $11,430 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 26 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $162/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 14.7 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the ION include:
- Alarm
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver3 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalAcceptable
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalPoor
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintMarginal
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