2004 Saturn ION Red Line - Reviews - Buying Guide
2004 Saturn ION Red Line Buying Resources:
2004 Saturn ION Red Line Review:
The all-new Saturn ION Red Line takes what was once a relatively
modest subcompact car and pushes down furiously on the accelerator.
This moves the division to a place it has never known before—into
the realm of the high-speed roadster. Not merely a supped-up
model, the 2004 ION Red Line is an entire division bolsterer.
The new ION Red Line is only offered as a Quad Coupe; that
is, it has two rear-opening half doors behind the front doors
that do not open or close independently of the fronts. On
top of that it adds all sorts of things that you would never
dream of finding in an old Saturn.
But the times have changed. Using the help of GM’s Performance
Division, the manufacturers at Saturn gave the new ION Red
Line a technologically-advanced engine, loads of unique features
and a style all its own. The only bad thing is that you have
to wait awhile to pick one up: the ION Red Line is scheduled
for release in early 2004.
Under the Hood
The ION Red Line’s engine uses many technological firsts
for Saturn. It is a 2.0-liter, Ecotec inline 4-cylinder model
with a supercharger and a unique intercooled design. Maxed
out, it can produce 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque.
These figures are estimates, but when you remember that this
engine is housed inside a subcompact frame, you have an idea
what sort of speed the Red Line can attain.
Performance is the key with this innovative model. It uses
a heavy-duty Getrag 5-speed manual transmission with short-throw
shifter, letting you really push it up to speed quickly.
A performance suspension smoothes out the bumps, while antilock
4-wheel disc brakes help you stop smartly. The 2004 ION Red
Line also employs a performance-tuned, high flow exhaust system,
while an upgraded drive axle and equal-length drive shafts
help transfer power as you depress the gas pedal.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The Red Line is built like a racecar would be. Compared the
regular ION, the Red Line sits on a ride height that is lowered
10-mm to reduce drag.
To catch your eye and grip the road, the Red Line uses 17-inch,
five-spoke forged aluminum wheels and Continental 215/45-series
performance tires. Inside, there are special performance seats,
while unique front and rear fascias and rocker moldings define
the exterior.
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