Used 2003 Saturn ION 2 4dr Sedan (2.2L 4cyl 5A) Consumer Reviews
Saturn does NOT deliver
I had FOUR rentals in two months due to problems. I called Saturn several times and spoke to several people. Their response was, and I quote: "We're sorry, but your warranty doesn't cover inconvenience." Nice, huh. The car has a LOT of interior noise: rattles, squeaks, clicks, you name it. It doesn't handle well when turning either, partly because the steering wheel is stiff, but also because it doesn't hug the road. And, you might want to consider getting some extra padding in your seat because it's a bumpy ride. Overall, the car is okay to drive and looks nice, but prepare for many trips to the dealer...and a lot of hot air from the Saturn Corporation.
Saturn Ion 2
I purchased this NEW Ion 2 in late May of 03, it's now late July. During this time my hood release fell off, I had to take it back in to get it fixed. Then I put my key in the passenger door to unlock it and the little metal piece that you put your key in fell into the door, the dealership in Columbia, SC said "That seems to be a similar thing happening to the Ion". Yesterday the little change drawer came off, I managed to fix it myself though. My wife also pointed out that the gas door is getting crooked and needs to be tightened. It is reliable so far though as far as getting yout from A to B.
not bad for its price
It is a nice car. But since this is a new design, it does have some defects, such as the interior parts. But I like the 2.2L engine, really powerful for such a small car. The 5speed auto tranny is a bit not smooth enough in low speed.
A Very Mixed Bag
I drive over 20K/year for work, and need a reliable and economical vehicle. The Saturn Ion specs out much better than the Cavalier that I'm used to driving, plus my wife is in love with the Ion's looks and features. What I didn't know is that the driver's seat would hurt my back so badly after driving for 30 miles or more. I would recommend NOT buying this car to anyone who has had any kind of back problems or tight muscles. Also, there is too little useable storage space within easy reach of the driver; there isn't even a safe place to put a cell phone with an earpiece attached. I'm wondering what kind of individual they designed this car for?
taste of performance
Just came back from a trip to Eastern Kentucky. The curves combined with hills can be down right scarry for those who are not used to it. The car had descent pickup but could not turn the corners as well as the Chevy Astro I was trying to follow. High roof line also does not help with mpg. Car has great bottem end torque in the standard but the automatic acts like it has a stall converter and is always in the 3 grand to 4 grand in rpm for just normal cruising.