|
CAR REVIEWS AND RATINGS
|
|
|
|
| Ratings |
( Maximum score is 100 ) |
|
| Overall: |
 ( 100 )
|
| Comfort: |
 ( 80 )
|
| Performance: |
( 100 )
|
| Quality: |
( 80 )
|
| Appearance: |
( 100 )
|
|
| Comments |
Favorite feature: |
The Enhanced Performance Package (EPP) |
Least favorite feature: |
Some cheap plastics used, fuel-filler door should have interior release |
Advice to buyer: |
The EPP (ABS, traction control, 170hp 2.4L engine) is worth the $995 |
Detailed review: |
It took Saturn 3.5 weeks to build my Pacific Blue Ion 3 - and it was definitely worth the wait. My Ion includes the Enhanced Performance Package (2.4 liter engine, suspension tweaks, ABS, traction control), leather interior, 6-speaker SAS (Saturn Advanced Sound system) and sunroof. The 170hp engine pulls with plenty of power, and the suspension strikes a nice balance between a smooth ride and responsive handling. Steering is accurate and nicely weighted, although a bit numb. The 2.4 liter engine is fairly smooth and about average in terms of moise. The entire package is definitely up for a spirited drive through the countryside. Gas mileage has been 27mpg in a city/highway mix. The front seats slide way back - a 6'3' passenger remarked on how much leg room he had. Rear seat headroom is not good for a six-footer. The SAS audio system sounds decent once you adjust the equalizer. There are a few rough edges on the dashboard, and some areas where bolt/screw covers could have been crafted with a bit more finesse. Some of the plastics used - especially near the windshield wipers and the side mirrors - feel cheap. The Ion 3 seems to have slightly more ground clearance than the 2006 Honda Civic and the Mazda 3. Also, getting in and out of the front seat doesn't have that 'in a bucket' feeling I got from the Civic and Mazda 3. The Saturn salesman threw in a few freebie accessories to ensure my satisfaction. Overall, I am extremely pleased with the car, and the buying experience. |
Also considered: |
2006 Mazda MAZDA3
2005 Honda Civic
2006 Ford Focus
|
Vehicle purchased: |
2006 Saturn ION
|
|
| About This Reviewer... |
Location: |
Stanhope, New Jersey |
Other vehicles owned: |
None
|
Review submitted: |
October 30, 2005 |
Is this review offensive or grossly inaccurate? Let us know.
|
Note: AutoSite.com provides Customer Test Drives as an open forum for individuals to
share their views during the test drive experience. The opinions, comments and views expressed in this
section are solely those of such individuals. Neither AutoSite.com, its subsidiaries and affiliates,
nor any AutoSite.com subscribing dealer or vehicle manufacturer endorse any view or opinion
expressed in this section unless specifically noted.
|
|
|
|
| |
|
A D V E R T I S E M E N T
|
| |
|
|
