For all the things that the Saturn Ion does right – namely a small car with good mileage and adequate power – the ride is way too long in seats that are horribly uncomfortable. (Leg cramps were very common throughout the 300-plus miles traveled while driving Saturn Ion.) From a style standpoint, the interior cabin looks ‘patchy’ – meaning the dash and console area pop out like mismatched puzzle pieces. Even though it’s not really the case, the cabin ‘look’ conveys an illusion that fit/finish problems are present. Like the Toyota Echo, the Ion presents its cluster gauges in a center-located position that is tilted toward the driver. Once the driver gets used to that presentation, it’s an intuitive glance to monitor speedometer, etc.

Power supply for the quad coupe is via a 2.2-liter 4-cylinder mated to either a five-speed manual or a VTi variable transmission (marking the first high-volume compact passenger car in North America with a continuously variable transmission). The standard equipment list includes variable-effort electronic power steering, air conditioning, AM/FM stereo with CD and four speakers, rear window defogger, adjustable steering column, dual visor vanity mirrors, and remote deck lid release. Mpg estimates are 24 city/32 highway with the continuously variable transmission. MSRP of Ion quad coupe is $14,930. The Ion is available with an array of ‘personalization’ kits, like roof rails that color coordinate with interior trims.