I've had no trouble with this ION or the SC1 I had for 7 years.
I love Saturn. I had a SC1 for 7 years and nothing but a great car. A little on the uncomfortable side for long distance driving, but the ION has improved the seating. The car handles great and is so much better on gas mileage which is a plus now with higher prices at the pump.
I find this car quite comfortable on long distance trips. I have driven it right across North America and back, driving over 600 miles a day. You have only had it for 500 miles! How could you say what its like on long trips? Have you tried adjusting the seat to the different heights?