2004 Saturn ION Quad Coup 2 2.2 from North America

Summary:

Well worth the price

Faults:

None.

General Comments:

As mentioned before, I looked at Saturn because of several friends who own one and cannot say enough good things about the car and the support from the dealer network.

So far it's been an excellent experience. Basically, the dealer told me "You'll be happy with this car or we will get you another." They even followed me home so I could drop my car off and took me back to the dealership to pick up my new Ion.

The car for the price is well worth it provided the reliability is there. It has all the standard bells and whistles. I really like the way the interior lights automatically come on when you shut the engine off. It's small things like that which show what thought process was used to design this budget oriented car. You can even personalize the way the alarm system functions.

The interior design is more than you would expect for the price. The plastic trim has a little of a "cheap" feel to it, but then again, it's an inexpensive car. The center mounted instrument cluster takes a little getting used to, but I'm adjusting fine. I like the way I can adjust the steering wheel to my comfort without losing site of the cluster. This allows for a small steering wheel that adds to a responsive feel while turning. The seats are comfortable for me, but (I am of average build) but may be too small for a larger individual. The rear bucket seats add an unusual look that I like. The upholstery has style as well.

The exterior is attractive to me, particularly for an inexpensive car. The two rear "suicide" doors are great! ease of entry and loading is amazing. I also still prefer a car with some straight lines rather than all the curvilinear body styles we have on most vehicles today. It also has a very large trunk. Plenty of room for whatever you want.

Performance is fine for what it is. My previous car was 230 horsepower and all wheel drive so this takes some adjusting on my part. It seems to stick to the road well and highway driving is very comfortable and stable. It has a good solid feel. (Mine has the 'Sport Package" which includes the 16" wheels and better rubber to the road) The steering feels a little unnatural, but, again, that is an adjustment needed on my part.

The visibility is a little obstructed at the rear side pillars. this makes checking traffic while backing out of a parking space a challenge.

The factory stereo is surprisingly good. (6 disc in dash changer with MP3 capability) I am an audiophile and for me to be impressed really says something.

Overall, the more I drive it, the more I like it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 14th March, 2004

2004 Saturn ION 3 Quad Coupe 2.2L from North America

Summary:

Comfortable and reliable car for those on a budget

Faults:

Nothing so far.

General Comments:

I bought this car after numerous positive comments from close friends that are Saturn owners.

From the moment I contacted the dealership I was treated like a king. They arranged for and paid for my rental car to get to their dealership which was 150 miles away. When I walked through the door, the salesman yelled out my name and spent forever going over every single model and made sure I got exactly what I wanted, including modifying the price to fit my financing.

I put 800 miles on the car within 48 hours of buying it and I was very impressed with it's performance and handling for the very low price. I easily cleared 30 MPG on mostly freeway driving. This car comes loaded for the price you see, there are very few options that aren't included so you won't get sticker shock when you look to buy it. This car is so impressive my friend actually turned down a Mercedes in favor of the ION Quad Coupe.

If you are looking for a great car at an amazing price go to Saturn. I won't lie and say it is the best car ever. But, for the price you cannot find a car that can remotely compare to it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 3rd January, 2004

22nd May 2007, 10:15

I have had my 2004 ION COUPE since the day I drove it off the lot. Having an SUV prior I was concerned about the size and what I could actually load in. Because of the rear "suicide doors" I am amazed at what I CAN fit in. This weekend I bought a queen size bed frame. They laughed at me when I drove my car around to pick it up. They were shaking their heads as I drove away!

As we approach $4.00 a gallon for fuel it feels better to drive my Saturn. Best car decision I have ever made.

Katherine, Boise, Idaho.