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.