2003 Saturn ION Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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After a long and successful run, Saturn decided to replace the S-Series with the Ion in 2003. The new model gave loyal Saturn consumers a roomier, sportier, and more powerful version of what they had come to expect over the years. As in previous Saturns, the 2003 Saturn Ion used polymer based panels to minimize scratches and dents. In addition, the car operates with a 2.2 L, 140 hp engine, an improvement from the 1.9 L and 124 hp in the most powerful S-Series trims.
The 2003 Saturn Ion comes in 5 different trims: Sedan 1, Sedan 2, Sedan 3, Coupe 2, and Coupe 3. All trims have standard 5 speed manual transmission with optional ABS brakes and traction control. The sedans have optional 5 speed automatic while the coupes offer optional continuously variable transmission (CVT; see earlier Saturn VUE models). In addition, all trims give you 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The coupes seat 4 and the sedans seat 5. Other innovations include 4 doors on the coupes and trunk space in the sedans that has increased almost 2.5 cubic feet from the S-Series.
Overall, consumers agree that the 2003 Saturn Ion represents an upgrade from the S-Series. However, many wonder whether Saturn did too little too late. Occasionally rough handling, road noise, and internal vibrations detract from the driving experience while hurting Saturn's initial position against competitors such as the Civic and the Corolla. Like Chicago Cubs fans, Saturn consumers would have to wait til next year for the home team to come through in the clutch.
User reviews for 2003 Saturn ION
Write a review2003 Saturn ION Pricing
Trims & specs
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheels: steel
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheels: steel
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front and rear head airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
