2006 Saturn ION - Great Transportation

Before I got this car, I owned a 2004 ION-3 Quad Coupe. It was a neat car, but with some flaws. I would say it had questionable build quality and a finicky CVT or Continuously Variable Transmission. I had the opportunity to trade it for an 2006 ION-2 Sedan and I took it. It was one of the best moves I have ever made!

While a step down from an ION-3, the ION-2 is still a worthy companion. The 2006 model is a HUGE improvement over the 2004 model. This ION feels more solid an better built. Also, the CVT, as well as the 5-Speed automatic in the 03-04 sedan, was replaced by GM's tried and true 4-Speed automatic transmission, known as Hydramatic model 4T45-E. Other numerous improvements include a regular-sized steering wheel, acoustic engine cover, updated suspension, and standard OnStar with a free year of service under the Safe and Sound Plan.

The outside of the ION-2 sedan is fairly pleasing to the eyes. The front fascia was updated in 2005 for a cleaner and more sophisticated look. This car still has the dent-resistant polymer panels on the sides of the car. Of course, the hood, roof, and trunklid are still steel. While some people think polymer gives the car a low-quality look, others don't feel that way and are glad that polymer is there whenever their ION has a run-in with a shopping cart. Please note that the 2007 ION will be the last year that polymer IONs will be made, so if you appreciate polymer, the proverbial clock is ticking. The wheel covers (as well as optional rims) are also updated for 2006.

Inside the car, the seats are also comfortable. I just wish there was a dummy pedal so people can rest their left foot while driving. The instrument panel is located at the center of the dash, angled towards the driver. From my experience, it was not hard at all to get used to the center IP. There are people that complain that you take your eyes off the road when looking at this IP. Well, how do you look at the one that is in front of you? You look down, and that means taking your eyes off the road. Think about it. Actually, I think you can see more road looking at a center IP than when looking at a conventional IP in front of you. The radio in my ION is a AM/FM/CD radio. It also has a jack to plug in an iPod or other MP3 player. Above the radio, other than a small cubbie, is a small display for the Passenger Sensing System, which turns on the passenger-side Airbag based on the passenger's weight and seating position. The OnStar controls are located conveniently on the rearview mirror.

For performance, the ION-2 is equipped with a 2.2L DOHC 4-cylinder Ecotec engine, which is rated at 140 horsepower. It offers sufficient performance and is one of the most powerful base engines in its class. If you want more power, consider an ION-3 with an optional 2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder Ecotec that is rated at 170 horsepower. For ultimate performance, the ION Red Line (only in Quad Coupe form) has a supercharged 2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder Ecotec rated at 205 horsepower. ABS is unfortunately optional in all IONs, except the Red Line. Even without ABS, the ION has great braking, though be careful if you slam on the brakes. The Goodyear Assurance tires on the ION-2 are a major improvement over the Firestones that were used in past years.