2005 Saturn ION Red Line User Reviews

05 Saturn Ion Redline —

I love driving this car. Even though the suspension design is archaic at best, i find that the car handles surprisingly well with good feedback through the steering wheel. Acceleration is definitely a strong suit, but torque steer likes to rear it's ugly head (especially with the stock Dunlop Sport SP9000 tires fitted). It's disappointing that a limited slip differential was not offered on the 2005 models, as this is one car that would definitely benefit from LSD. Handling 200 lb-ft of torque is a lot to be asking from the front tires. It's not the fastest car out there, but it doesn't try to be. It is the typical American car, in that it accelerates well, handles ok, and has terrible brakes. They simply aren't up to the task of aggressive driving with fade becoming apparent early. The car's build quality is atrocious, especially evident in the interior's panel fitment. The body emits random squeaks and rattles especially around the missing B pillars. Mechanical problems have been almost non-existent. I think the appearance is definitely a strong suit. From far away, it doesn't attract a lot of attention (especially from the boys in blue) but upon closer inspection, the car reveals an aggressive body kit and cool looking rims. Maintenance costs have been relatively low due to the lack of mechanical failures, but the cost of oil changes is comparatively expensive. The car takes 6 and 3/4 qts of Mobil 1 synthetic per each oil change and access to the oil filter requires near-gymnast flexibility. Gas mileage has proven to be average, but a strong selling point is that the car will run on 87 octane fuel even though it is recommended to run 91. If lower than 91 octane fuel is used, the computer reduces engine power by a couple hp to prevent engine knock. The car makes up for all it's shortcomings by being so much fun to drive. When put into the hands of a capable driver it offers a truly fun "pocket rocket" experience.

Primary Use: Commuting to work

Sean And Carolyns Saturn — I like the way it drives and for the speed it has its great on gas...I dont like how the battery is in the back tho.the ackseat doesnt look to comfortable but the front seat is..The factory cd/mp3 player is not bad at all and the metallic trim inside is nice..nie racing pedals..just needs some tint and a bigger wing on the back..carolyns likes it so thats all that matters i bought it for her:)

Overall A Fun Car — I bought this car in August 2008. It is a 2005 GM stage 2 with 53,000 miles on it. I actually havent had too many problems with hooking up, these cars are known for wheel hop but i guess its the tires. I am running Pirelli P-Neros. I love the interior, and i had a three-stage shift light that makes it a lot easier. I dont really like that the gauges are all the way over in the middle of the car, instead of in front of the wheel.