2004 Saturn ION Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The 2004 Saturn Ion added some excitement to the lineup with two new variations: the Special Edition sedan and the Red Line coupe. The...
The 2004 Saturn Ion added some excitement to the lineup with two new variations: the Special Edition sedan and the Red Line coupe. The Special Edition sedan has a black exterior with a refurbished leather interior and special standard features including a compass and outside temperature gauge. The Red Line coupe maintains the same 4 door design as the original quad coupe. However, the new trim's modestly altered appearance belie the 205 horses running under its hood. Besides the Red Line, the Ion has kept its original 5 trims: Sedan 1, Sedan 2, Sedan 3, Coupe 2, and Coupe 3. All 5 still use a 2.2 L, 140 hp I4 engine with standard 5 speed manual transmission. The sedans seat 5 and have optional 5 speed automatic while the non-Red Line coupes seat 4 and offer optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). Fuel consumption generally ranges from 24 mpg in the city to 32 mpg on the highway. Cargo space for all trims averages out to around 14.5 cubic feet, with sedans coming in at 14.7 and coupes giving you 14.2. The main differences in the original Ion from 2003 to 2004 come in steering, handling, and road noise. Drivers appreciate the electric variable-ratio steering, a technology that helps the car make tighter turns. New materials have deadened sound and vibration to a level equal to other compact models. Despite the improvements, consumers would like more durability, less road noise, and a more stylish interior in the Ion. The 2004 Saturn Ion gives consumers solid performance for their dollar but may disappoint anyone looking for anything more.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers have a positive impression of the 2004 Saturn ION, often praising its great gas mileage, dependability, and enjoyable driving experience. Many appreciated the sound system and acceleration, while some mentioned a lack of luxury features like keyless entry and cruise control. Owners tend to admire the car's unique style and roomy interior, but a few voiced concerns about build quality and the need for maintenance."
This was my first car. I'd be lying if I said I missed it. It was about as base as one could get a new car these days; manual windows and locks. I DID have A/C and a CD player though! Build quality was poor. This car was cheap to buy and certainly felt like it. It eventually met it's demise.
March 13, 2008the acceleration is very good in my opinion, better than the old saturn we used to have. the brakes are smooth, and they don't jerk at all, and they are quick when pressed. handling is quite easy, steering is very good. not to hard or rough. build quality is ok. it needs some repairs like the rear window doesnt roll down. the battery did die once over the first year, but thats because it was used and it is 4 years old now, so it probably needs a new battery. appearance is what drew me to it. the electrick blue color, the unique shiny wheels, the leather upholstery. 6-disc CD changer (thank god). interior is much more modern than older saturns. love that the speedometer is the middle of the dash. gas mileage is good. only get gas maybe 2-3 times a week. it does need attention in the maintenance. it is very speedy and very smooth, and an all around fun car to drive.
July 24, 2008This is the 4th saturn i have owned....i really like the saturn but this one is plan jane to my other ones there is no keyless entry remote starter or cruise control.....other those down falls this car is really good an i like it....makes for a good family car
February 10, 2012What owners say
This was my first car. I'd be lying if I said I missed it. It was about as base as one could get a new car these days; manual windows and locks. I DID have A/C and a CD player though! Build quality was poor. This car was cheap to buy and certainly felt like it. It eventually met it's demise.
March 13, 2008the acceleration is very good in my opinion, better than the old saturn we used to have. the brakes are smooth, and they don't jerk at all, and they are quick when pressed. handling is quite easy, steering is very good. not to hard or rough. build quality is ok. it needs some repairs like the rear window doesnt roll down. the battery did die once over the first year, but thats because it was used and it is 4 years old now, so it probably needs a new battery. appearance is what drew me to it. the electrick blue color, the unique shiny wheels, the leather upholstery. 6-disc CD changer (thank god). interior is much more modern than older saturns. love that the speedometer is the middle of the dash. gas mileage is good. only get gas maybe 2-3 times a week. it does need attention in the maintenance. it is very speedy and very smooth, and an all around fun car to drive.
July 24, 2008This is the 4th saturn i have owned....i really like the saturn but this one is plan jane to my other ones there is no keyless entry remote starter or cruise control.....other those down falls this car is really good an i like it....makes for a good family car
February 10, 2012Pretty good on gas milage for being a bigger sized car. its only a 4 cylinder and braking is pretty good. I barely have to put any money into it except for gas since i drive a lot but it gets around 25 mpg. overall its a fun car to drive i am the cars second owner i bought it from a family that bought it new. it currently has around 128,500 miles on it.
April 25, 2011This car was so easy to drive and great on gas for if you have to travel long distances. Its also a good first car for a teenager its stylish and is a great price. It has a extremely spacous back seat.
January 23, 2013Incredible car that looks like a two door, but has two rear doors that open suicide style.
December 31, 2007Overall I love its performance and handling. It has good build quality inside and out. People are surprised to find out it is a Saturn as some think it is a much more luxurious car. My dog is a little tight in the back but he likes sticking his head out of the window anyway.
July 7, 2009The only thing that I've changed in my car was the air in-take and it gave me more power and great gas mileage. It's been a fabulous little car. I also love the suicide back doors and that there is no center post. It makes it easy to get into the back seat.
December 14, 2007I was super sad to see this car sell... I loved driving this car! It got great gas mileage! Had room in the trunk to put groceries, It was fun to drive, I only wish they still made Saturn Ion's.
June 24, 2013Sound system is fantastic. Good acceleration but can be jumpy at times. I love the color of my car. I got the car for a great price which was within my buget. I love driving this car. I dont know what i would do without it
November 18, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $16,275 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.2L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $14,750 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.2L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $15,300 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.2L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $10,995 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.2L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $16,800 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.2L 140 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
