2003 Saturn ION Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$11,995 to $16,095

Original MSRP

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expert review

3.8

avg user rating

(33 reviews)
2003 Saturn ION Preview summaryImage

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.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 2003 Saturn ION

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User rating:
by Anonymous
May 30, 2022
this. a good car i want buy this car May 30, 2022
by Anonymous
May 01, 2014
This car was purchased from a private seller who took excellent care of it. I have had very little maintenance done to it since purchasing in Feb. 2014. I would absolutely recommend this car to others. I just have to get the knocking noise behind the glove box tended to - I have been advised about this situation by several people.May 01, 2014
by Anonymous
Jul 15, 2013
Has been a great car for the wife. Fun, safe & reliable. I see why there are so many Saturn ION followers. The maintanance has been easy and affordable, the ride is nice and smooth & the car stops fast and straight. Jul 15, 2013

2003 Saturn ION Pricing

Original MSRP
$11,995 to $16,095
Price range
N/A
Average price on CG
N/A
YoY price change
N/A

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

See all trims (5)