2005 Saturn Ion Red Line | Review | Buying Guide
Introduced last year, the Ion Red Line brought an entirely new attitude to the Saturn family. Once known primarily for value and modest vehicles, the Ion Red Line showed the world that Saturn likes to get a little wild sometimes too.
With the GM’s Performance Division, the manufacturers at Saturn gave the Ion Red Line a technologically-advanced engine, loads of unique features and a style all its own. Being its second year of life, 2005 doesn’t see too many changes to the speedy model, but that’s not a bad thing really.
The 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.
Under the Hood
The Ion Red Line’s engine was given 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 205 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 200 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm.
The 2.0-liter I4 is mated to a heavy-duty Getrag 5-speed manual transmission with short-throw shifter. When done properly, the Ion Red Line is capable of achieving 0-to-60 mph (0-to-97 km/h) acceleration in an estimated 6.3 seconds.
A performance suspension system smoothes out the bumps on the road, while antilock 4-wheel disc brakes help you stop smartly. The 2005 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 made for speed, with a ride height that is lowered 10-mm to reduce drag. It also differentiates itself from the rest of the Ion line with 17-inch, five-spoke forged alloy wheels, Continental 215/Z45-series performance tires, unique front and rear fascias, rocker moldings and a family of available rear wings and leather-trimmed RECARO sport front seats.
Other standards this year include cruise control, power mirrors and windows, remote keyless entry and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player.
For options, there are quite a few, including satellite radio, a sunroof, an upgraded radio system and an AM/FM radio with in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
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