2004 Saturn ION - Reviews - Buying Guide
2004 Saturn ION Buying Resources:
2004 Saturn ION Review:
The ION rushes into its sophomore year with a head of steam.
Saturn aims to continue its evolution by offering a surprising
amount of upgrades, plus a high-powered Red Line trim (covered
separately) that should do nothing short of redefining an
entire division once known solely as GM’s value kings.
The ION is a subcompact car. It is available as a sedan and
as a Quad Coupe. The Quad Coupe has two rear-opening half
doors behind the front doors that do not open or close independently
of the fronts. These dual rear access doors are more than
just a clever design feature; they are an industry first.
2004 models were treated by Saturn to produce a more refined
interior feel. The result is that all uplevel ION models feature
new, more refined fabrics. In addition, front armrests have
been added to midlevel models for improved front-seat occupant
comfort.
Under the Hood
Saturn classifies its ION models with a simple number system:
1, 2 and 3. The sole powertrain is a 2.2-liter, Ecotec inline
4-cylinder engine with 140 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 145
lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. It is mated to 5-speed manual
transmission. Sedans also offer 5-speed automatic transmission.
You won’t have to stop at the gas station every couple of
hours with the new ION. Vehicles with manual transmission
get 26/33 mpg (city/highway), while automatics get 24/32 mpg
(city/highway).
2 coupe models can be fitted with GM’s VTi variable transmission.
The VTi, a continuously variable transmission, allows the
engine to operate more efficiently than a traditional step-gear
automatic because it provides an infinite number of gear ratios
over a wide overall ratio range.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
Saturn has always emphasized safety. Dual-stage driver and
passenger airbags are standard, while Saturn's segment-exclusive
head curtain side airbag system is optional. It provides protection
to the head and neck in certain side-impact collisions.
Interior harmony was the goal of manufacturers as they upgraded
the 2004 ION. The result is an interior that now includes
a monochromatic instrument panel (ebony on the quad coupe,
either gray or tan on the sedan). Revised radio and shifter
bezel colors provide improved overall interior color coordination
as well.
Of course, there are plenty of options available, including
a Special Edition sedan model.
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