2005 Saturn ION New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Saturn Ion?
In an effort to boost sagging sales, Saturn endows the 2005 Ion with several upgrades designed to make the car more appealing. A traditional four-speed automatic transmission replaces both the troubled continuously variable transmission (CVT) from the Quad Coupe and the five-speed unit sourced from Aisin for the Sedan. The dwarf-sized steering wheel is swapped out for a new, larger four-spoke tiller. Noise, vibration, and harshness are reduced through additional sound-deadening measures, and the electric steering is recalibrated with the intent of improving handling. Ride quality is enhanced through new suspension bushings front and rear. Sedans get a new grille and front bumper, and Ions with level 2 or 3 trim receive new seats and machine-faced alloy wheels. Ion 3 Sedans get chrome exterior trim for a more upscale look this year, and any Ion can be equipped with an OnStar telematics system featuring hands-free capability. Four new colors debut, including an exclusive Chili Pepper Red for the fun-to-drive Ion Red Line.

Advantages of the 2005 Saturn Ion:

• No-hassle buying experience
• Clamshell-style doors of the quad coupe allow for easier access to the rear seat
• Dent- and rust-resistant plastic body panels
• Red Line model is genuine fun to drive

Objections to the 2005 Saturn Ion:

• Unimpressive fit and finish
• Loud, unrefined powertrain
• Uncomfortable rear seats

Editor's Advice:
The Saturn Ion replaced the 13-year-old S-Series in 2003, and was heralded by its maker as a wonderful new standard-bearer in the economy car class. It is anything but. We find the Ion to be poorly executed, a perfect example of the domestic automobile industry's arrogance. Standard-issue Ions ride and drive like they're decades old, with a beam rear axle and drum rear brakes. The electric power steering is devoid of road feel, and it's hard to make the small course corrections that all cars require, resulting in plenty of unsettling lane hunt as you travel down the road. The rear seat is uncomfortable and suffers a severe lack of legroom when tall front seat occupants have made enough space for themselves. Refinement is also lacking, in terms of powertrain, assembly quality and the materials used to construct the cabin. Saturn claimed to have made improvements to the steering and interior for 2004; apparently, what they changed didn't work because more updates are offered on the 2005 model. Frankly, we don't think anything short of a trip back to the drawing board will help the Saturn Ion. The single exception is the sport-tuned Red Line model, which lacks powertrain refinement but steers, brakes, and handles beautifully.