NEW FACE, ADDED REFINEMENT ENHANCE SATURN ION LINEUP FOR 2005

The Saturn Ion adds unprecedented levels of refinement for 2005. Sedan models feature a new front fascia and grille, while new seats (Ion·2/Ion·3) and a larger, four-spoke steering wheel highlight interior upgrades. And getting to the destination is more enjoyable than ever, thanks to improvements in ride and handling as well as reductions in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels.

'Continuous improvement is a major part of the Ion story,' said Lori Queen, GM vehicle line executive for small cars. 'While Ion started with great engineering fundamentals, more than 800 enhancements have been made throughout the vehicle since the original introduction in the fall of 2002. The upgrades for 2005 bring Ion to a level of sophistication that is competitive with the best cars in the entry-level segment,' said Queen.

This will also mark the first full model year of production for the Ion Red Line quad coupe, a supercharged compact that debuted as an interim 2004 entry. The 205-horsepower (153-kw) Ion Red Line is part of Saturn's new performance series.

'The Ion has always been a fun-to-drive car with high levels of content and functionality for the price,' said Matt Armstrong, marketing manager for the Ion. 'The improvements for 2005 add to the overall enjoyment of spending time in an Ion, whether you're driving or just along for the ride.'

Interior upgrades

Get into a 2005 midlevel Ion×2 or uplevel Ion×3, and perhaps the most apparent change is the new seats, with a more tailored and contemporary look in both front and rear. For increased comfort, the seats are wider and deeper at the shoulders and include enhanced thigh and side bolsters. They also provide increased lateral support that enhances driver control. The Ion×2 cloth seats also feature a new, woven fabric.

All models also sport a larger, four-spoke steering wheel that originally debuted on the 2004 Red Line. The steering wheel has a wider grip than the previous version, and it complements Ion's electronic power steering system, which has been recalibrated for 2005 to provide improved on-center feel.

A number of more subtle upgrades also contribute to the interior's feel of refinement. On all 2005 models, a new shift lever provides improved appearance and feel for both automatic and manual transmissions; the HVAC vents and the 'sharkfin' for the side-view mirrors are color coordinated with the interior color (gray or tan); and silver accents are used for HVAC and radio bezels.

On Ion×2 and Ion×3 models, HVAC outlets are accented in metallic silver, matching the center bezel for a more harmonious look. Chrome dial rings replace gray around the instrument cluster.

The Ion interior continues to feature a center-mounted cluster. On the same horizontal sight line as the side-view mirrors, the center-mounted design also allows the driver to set the steering wheel in the most comfortable position without needing an adjustment to see the instrument readings.

Ion offers a variety of audio choices to make the trip more enjoyable. AM/FM stereo with four speakers is standard on the base model, while Ion×2 adds a CD player (optional on the base model) and Ion×3 comes with a standard CD and MP3 player (optional on other models). Optional on Ion×2 and Ion×3 are a six-CD changer with MP3 and the Saturn Advanced Audio System, consisting of six premium speakers and a 160-watt amplifier. XM Satellite Radio (continental U.S. only) is available on the Ion?2 and Ion?3.

New look for sedan

The 2005 Ion sedan sports a new front fascia and grille that is both more substantial and also more integrated with the front bumper. A new, larger Saturn badge is more prominent in the center of the grille. New chrome beltline molding provides a jewel-like accent on the Ion×3 sedan.

Ion×3 models are available with alloy wheels with new machine facing for a fresh, more technical look.

The quad coupe continues to offer innovative dual rear-access doors. Combined with a front-passenger fold-flat seat and the lack of a B-pillar, the rear-access doors help maximize the usefulness of the interior space by making it easy to load and unload passengers and cargo, even large objects that wouldn't typically fit in a traditional compact car.

New exterior colors for 2005 are Dragonfly Green, replacing Eden Green (Ion×2/Ion×3 sedans); Pacific Blue, replacing Electric Blue (Ion×2/Ion×3); Summer Blue (coupe specialty color); and Chili Pepper Red for the Red Line.

NVH improvements

Improvements to NVH levels are an important part of the equation making the 2005 Ion more enjoyable for short trips or long ones. A new acoustic cover for the engine, on all models except the Red Line, results in quieter operation while still allowing easy access to underhood fluid checks. Other powertrain-related improvements also help isolate customers from noise sources and make it easier to maintain conversations. The changes include new acoustic clips for the fuel line, new piston coating and a new exhaust down pipe.

Notable improvement also comes from the use of Quiet Steel – a patented, multi-layered laminate consisting of an elastic polymer core between two thin steel skins. Developed by Material Sciences Corp., Quiet Steel is used in the Ion's plenum and dash, helping to isolate the passenger compartment from both powertrain and road noise.

New transaxle

GM's Hydra-Matic 4T45-E automatic transaxle replaces the VTi variable transmission as an option for the quad coupe and also replaces the Aisin five-speed automatic as an option for the sedan. The 4T45-E is known for its reliability, smoothness and efficiency, and is expected to deliver fuel economy (estimated 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway) comparable to the five-speed automatic as well as the VTi variable transmission.

A five-speed manual transmission that delivers excellent smoothness and durability continues to be standard on the sedan and quad coupe. The transmission includes five synchronized forward gears and a synchronized reverse gear – rare in small cars – allowing the Ion to shift into reverse without grinding if the driver shifts before the car is fully stopped.

With the change to the Hydra-Matic 4T45-E as the optional transmission, all Ions now can be flat-towed – pulled behind another vehicle without the need for a special dolly – making Ion an ideal choice for RV owners.

Responsive performance

Both the Ion sedan and quad coupe feature responsive performance and sporty handling. The Ecotec 2.2L inline four-cylinder engine, standard in both, generates more standard horsepower (140 hp/104 kw) than primary competitors and strong low-end torque for excellent launch feel and passing performance.

Variable-ratio electric power steering allows customized steering assist for different tire/wheel combinations and suspension levels. For 2005, the electric power steering calibration has been adjusted, providing more responsive steering, especially when combined with the new, larger steering wheel.

New rear hydraulic bushings and an improved front lower control arm bushing help provide a smoother ride and also help isolate passengers from road noise.

Safety and security

Like all Saturns, the Ion was designed with a major emphasis on safety and security. The world-class structural design provides the foundation, as the steel spaceframe helps absorb the energy of a crash while protecting the integrity of the passenger compartment.

Dual-stage frontal air bags are standard, and head curtain side air bags – helping to provide protection to both front and rear occupants – are optional. The Ion sedan and quad coupe offer an optional anti-lock braking system and also offer traction control across all models, except the Red Line.

Ion also comes with a factory-installed anti-theft system with remote keyless entry, standard on Ion?3 and optional on Ion·2. An engine immobilizer, which prevents car theft by shutting off fuel to the engine if the correct ignition key isn't used, is standard on every Ion.

The OnStar safety and security system is available on Ion?2 and Ion?3 models. OnStar-equipped Ions feature new sixth-generation hardware with digital and analog coverage. OnStar's Gen 6 hardware also includes upgraded hands-free voice recognition capabilities including more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy. OnStar is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services in the United States and Canada. Using the GPS satellite network and wireless technology, OnStar features core safety services and OnStar Personal Calling that allows drivers to make and receive hands-free, voice-activated phone calls using a powerful three-watt digital/analog system and external antenna for greater reception.

Red Line

Inspired by the 'tuner' cars popularized in southern California, the Ion Red Line debuted as an interim 2004 model. It features a 2.0L supercharged and intercooled version of the Ecotec four-cylinder engine that generates 205 horsepower (153 kw), and a heavy-duty five-speed manual transmission with short-throw shifter. The Red Line is capable of achieving 0-to-60 mph (0-to-97 km/h) acceleration in an estimated 6.3 seconds

Other Red Line highlights include:

• Beefier drive axle and equal-length drive shafts

• High-flow, performance-tuned exhaust system

• Four-wheel disc brakes (with standard ABS)

• Racetrack-bred suspension tuning, including revised springs, shocks, bushings and stabilizer bars

• 17-inch, five-spoke forged alloy wheels

• Continental 215/Z45-series performance tires

• 10-mm lowered ride height

• Unique front and rear fascias, rocker moldings and a family of available rear wings

• Leather-trimmed RECARO sport front seats

To demonstrate the ultimate performance capabilities of the Ion Red Line package, Saturn and GM Performance Division took it to the Bonneville Salt Flats on Oct. 17, 2003, where the Red Line established a new land speed mark record in the G/Blown Fuel Altered class at 212.684 mph (340.294 km/h).

by GM Corporation

by Saturn

A division of General Motors and a brand of automobiles, the Saturn Corporation began on January 7, 1985 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of GM. Active almost exclusively in the US and Canada, GM began manufacturing Saturn vehicles in 1990. GM has moved the brand upmarket during the first decade of the 21st century, to the mid-price segment that was once occupied by Oldsmobile. Similar to Vauxhall Motors in the UK, Saturn is currently becoming the US brand for Opel vehicles.

Named after the rocket that originally took American astronauts to the moon, Saturn's first motto was ‘A different kind of company, a different kind of car.' Saturn's vehicles have become known for their emphasis in quality control along with product reliability.

A compact vehicle sold by the Saturn marque of American Automaker General Motors, the Saturn Ion used the GM Delta platform. Replacing the S-Series as Saturn's signature compact sedan and coupe in 2003, the Saturn Ion featured a roomy interior, plenty of cargo space and a more powerful engine. Starting out with promise and enthusiasm with the Ion, Saturn unfortunately failed to make the necessary adjustments for interior materials and engine noise. The ION was the longest compact sold in North America as of 2006. On March 27, 2007, production of the ION ended.

Featured standard with a 140 hp DOHC engine Ecotec I4 engine, the 2003 ION had an instrument panel that was mounted on the top center of the dashboard instead of behind the steering wheel. Available in either sedan or coupe forms, the ION coupe is called a ‘quad coupe' because of the two smaller rear opening ‘suicide doors' behind the front doors. The ION is the first four-door coupe that was ever produced.

An Aisin AF23 5-speed automatic transmission was available, along with a GETRAG F23 5-speed manual. The Aisin was unique in the fact that the transmission lacked an overdrive and allowed for five forward gears to be packaged in the size of a typical four-sped manual gearbox that provided close gear ratios for improved acceleration and fuel efficiency while eliminating the heat and parasitic loss that was generated by planetary gearset. ‘Fill-for-life', the unit did not need to be serviced for the entire length of life of the vehicle. VTi continuously variable transmission was available on the 2003 and 2004 IONs.

Super-sizing the Ion, the Saturn Ion Red Line entered the lineup with a powerful 205 hp I4 supercharged engine in 2004. The Ion Red Line also had a stronger F35 5-speed manual transmission, stiffer springs with a lowered ride height, re-valved shock absorbers, performance sway bars, Recaro racing seats and a special ground effects package.

The Red Line model utilized a 2.0L version of GE's Ecotec engine that was dubbed the ‘LSJ' and was developed with GM's Performance Division and track tested at Germany's famous Nürburgring Nordschleife.

A limited production ‘Special Edition' model was featured in 2004. Simply a Saturn Ion 3 Sedan with upgrades, the Special Edition featured two-tone leather interior, ultra-bright machined face wheels that came with unique lug nuts and center cap. Embroidered floor mats, an automatic dimming rear-view mirror with both compass and temperature displays and a chrome-tipped exhaust pipe were also showcased on the unique model. Available in three different colors, the Special Edition Sedan came in Black Onyx, Chili Pepper Red, and Electric blue and was marketed to bring a premium presence to the sedan and appeal to various consumers.

New sound systems were featured for the 2004 Saturn, along with upgraded Interior Materials, and re-calibrated electric power steering.

For 2005 both the Aisin 5-speed automatic and the VTi CVT that were used in quad-coupes from 2003 to mid-2004 were deleted and replaced b y GM's 4-speed 4T45-E. The only automatic transmission available, the 4T45-E was less technologically advanced then the earlier versions, but was a long term proven design.

The ‘hockey puck' style steering wheel was replaced in 2005 with the design used in the '04 Red Line model that became standard on all models. Halfway through 2005 the seats in the base ION1 model were upgraded with brand new fabrics and a height adjustment feature. To help with sound reduction, the introduction of ‘quiet steel' multilaminate technology was introduced for the '05 model. A much larger grille opening was featured along with the front fascia of the sedan was upgraded. To reduce engine noise, an acoustic engine cover was added. The ECU was moved from a speed density system to a mass air system.

For 2006 the long-awaited 170 hp 2.4 L I4 engine with variable valve timing was made available for the ION3. This new engine produced 170 hp and 162 lb·ft of torque.

The following year featured an increase of power in the 2.2 L Ecotec engine from 150 hp to 145 hp at 5600 rpm. The torque was increased from 145 ft·lbf to 150 ft·lbf at 4200 rpm. The 2.4 L Ecotec engine also increased in power from 170 hp to 175 hp at 6500 rpm, and the torque was increased from 162 ft·lbf to 164 ft·lbf at 4800 rpm.

Black leather-appointed seats with passenger sensing systems replaced the Recaro seats on the Red Line.

The ION was scheduled for a redesign for the ION in 2008, but GM discontinued the vehicle in March 2007 and replaced it with the European-built Saturn Astra hatchback. The Astra is a rebadged Opel Astra.

by Jessican Donaldson