2006 Saturn Ion: Tester's Comments
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2006 Saturn Ion ▼
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- MSRP: $11,925 -$19,425
- Invoice: $11,025 -$17,925
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Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2006 Saturn Ion. See if the 2006 Saturn Ion is right for you.
Vehicle Evaluated
| Make/Model: | 2006 Saturn Ion |
|---|---|
| Trim Level: | 3 |
| Arrival Date: | 01/04/2006 |
| Engine: | dohc I4 |
| Bodystyle | 4-door sedan |
| Transmission: | 5-speed manual |
| 4WD/AWD: | No |
| Base Price: | 14,325 |
| Price as Tested: | 16,565 |
| Mileage at Beginning of Test: | 3093 |
| Mileage at End of Test: | 4626 |
| Total Measured Miles: | 1533 |
| Total Fuel Used: | 12.63 gals. |
| Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: | 23.99 mpg (what's this?) |
| Problems During Test: | None |
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Major Options
Enhanced Performance Package (2.4-liter 4-cyl DOHC 16V 170 hp engine, sport tuned suspension, Antilock Brakes with Traction Control), XM Satellite Radio, Decklid Spoiler, Front and Rear Floor Mats
From the Back Seat
Ed Piotrowski
On paper, this car has the goods: 170 hp, lots of standard equipment, reasonable pricing and a dealer body with an excellent sales/service reputation. Adding curtain side airbags and MP3 CD support will keep the sticker price at about $17,000 and change. But the lackluster performance of the 2.4-liter engine, premium unleaded gas recommendation and subpar material quality disappoint. There are several other, and more solid, choices in this class.
John Biel
Overall, the Focus, Civic, or Elantra are better cars in terms of refinement and, perhaps, quality (assembly, materials, etc.). Still, the Ion 3 in this test had options like the 170-horsepower engine, ABS/traction control, satellite radio, and more on it, but stickered for $16,565 delivered. At that price, it is worth a shopper's time to consider it.
Rick Cotta
With a comprehensive list of standard equipment plus optional 170-hp engine, ABS, and satellite radio, our Ion 3 tester seemed like quite a deal for $16,000. And Ion's plastic body panels are a strong selling point. But it lacked the refinement and expected features of even its least-expensive competitors, making it an also-ran even at its bargain price.
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