Saturn Ion

Saturn Ion

Ion to be Replaced by the Astra

General Motors Corp.’s effort to revitalize the lineup of its import fighting brand Saturn has resulted to the injection of European blood into the brand’s lineup. The Saturn Ion will be replaced the Saturn Astra as part of the company’s step forward.

The compact car Ion has been in Saturn's lineup since 2003 but failed to generate much attention among car buyers. Its conservative styling is one of the reason it has not attracted the attention of young car buyers. And for that, General Motors see it fit to replace the Ion with an entirely new vehicle.

Partnering Saturn with Opel, the German automaker has resulted to Saturn being the fastest growing brand in the United States. The Saturn Vue is based on the Opel Antara, and the Saturn Sky is a rebadged Opel GT. Thus it is not surprising that the replacement for the Ion should have a connection with an Opel auto model.

The replacement for the Ion is the Saturn Astra. The vehicle is a rebadged version of the Opel Astra. While the European Astra is known for its performance, its American counterpart will not exactly share its drivetrain but the two will be resembling each other very much and that means that by looking at the Astra, American car buyers will know what to expect more or less from the Saturn Astra which will hit showrooms in the country this fall.

The Opel Astra was introduced in the European car market in 2004, a year after the Ion. Although the Astra and the Ion has almost similar dimensions, the Astra differs significantly from the Ion in terms of overall length. Although shorter than the Ion, the Astra compensates for it with a wheelbase measuring similar to that of the Ion, it still provides a roomy interior.

Critics call the Ion as an unsurprising car; in contrast, the European styling incorporated into the Saturn Astra is a breath of fresh air. The sleek and clean lines of the Astra give it an appeal hard to resist. Available in either a five-door or a three-door variant, the Astra is said to look better as a three-door hatchback. Using Saturn body kit with the Astra will further enhance its aesthetic value.

According to Saturn, the five-door variant of the Astra will come in two trim levels, the XE and the XR trim. The three-door hatchback Astra will only be offered in the top-of-the-line XR trim. This makes the three-door more attractive than its sibling. With the XR trim, it will come with a lot more standard features and sportier handling to add to its already loaded visual package.

The power of the Saturn Astra will come from a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder engine. Incidentally, this is smaller than the engine that used to power the Saturn Ion. Re smallest engine offered with the Ion is a 2.0-liter engine although it is supercharged. The standard engine for the Ion is a 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine.

The 1.8-liter engine of the Saturn Astra can be paired to either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed Manual Transmission. The Astra will be produced in General Motors’s assembly facility in Antwerp, Belgium.

About the Author

Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

US Auctions Australian Auctions Austrian Auctions Belgian Auctions Canadian Auctions French Auctions German Auctions Irish Auctions Italian Auctions Dutch Auctions Spanish Auctions Swiss Auctions GB Auctions

Best Match Items Ending First Newly-Listed Items First Price + Shipping: Lowest First Price + Shipping: Highest First

Saturn Ion Sedan 2004 Saturn Ion Runs Great and Saves Gas 124500 miles $1,825.00 (10 Bids) Time Remaining: 3d 23h 52m Buy It Now for only: $3,100.00

Saturn Ion 2006 Saturn ion redline NO RESERVE $7,500.00 Time Remaining: 5d 21h 14m Buy It Now for only: $7,500.00

Saturn Ion WE FINANCE 2007 SATURN ION 2 SEDAN AUTO POWER DOOR LOCKS 39K MILES $1,000.00 (1 Bid) Time Remaining: 7d 21h 31m Buy It Now for only: $9,780.00

Saturn Ion Quad Ion 2 NO RESERVE 1 PRE OWNER NO ACCIDENTS QUAD DOORS CLEAN RUNS GR8 TIRES RIMS $1,675.00 (4 Bids) Time Remaining: 20h 54m

Saturn Ion ION 3 WE FINANCE 2005 Saturn Ion ION 3 Leather PwrLocks Wndws Mrrs KylssEnt CD DRL $1,000.00 Time Remaining: 5d 22h 24m Buy It Now for only: $5,900.00

Saturn Ion Level 3 2004 Saturn Ion Level 3 Coupe 4 door 22L I4 FI DOHC Front Wheel Drive $2,950.00 (9 Bids) Time Remaining: 3d 13h 21m

Saturn ION ION 3 AUTO 2007 SATURN ION 3 Leather Seats CD FRONT WHEEL DRIVE $5,499.99 Time Remaining: 14d 23h 24m Buy It Now for only: $5,499.99

Saturn Ion 2006 Saturn Ion 2 Gas Saver $7,500.00 Time Remaining: 2d 1h 26m

Saturn Ion Sedan 2001 SATURN ION $200.00 (1 Bid) Time Remaining: 4d 17h 24m

Saturn Ion 2 BUY NOW 585105 SATURN SEDAN 4 DOOR ION 2 GREY A C Cruise Control 4 CYLINDER $5,500.00 Time Remaining: 1d 21h 24m

Saturn Ion Level 2 2003 Saturn Ion $200.00 Time Remaining: 4d 18h 34m Buy It Now for only: $4,500.00

	Energizer ECR2032 Watch Battery List Price: $2.84 Sale Price: $0.01 You save: $2.83 (100%)
	Description ECR2032 3 volt Lithium Button Cell Watch / Garage Door / Calculator / Medical Eveready Energizer Battery

	Cross ION Saturn Red Black Gel Ink Pen Sale Price: $39.99
	Description This innovative CrossIon 812-7 black gel ink pocket pen , with its soft-touch ergonomic grip , one-hand open/close operation and quick-clip key ring attachment makes long writing sessions smooth as silk! Its saturn red with chrome color scheme looks sharp! Put it in your pocket or carry with you anywherewiththe included carry case! Order today!

	Guillows Nieuport II Laser Cut Model Kit List Price: $45.99 Sale Price: $30.14 You save: $15.85 (34%)
	Description 1/12 scale. 24" wing span. Now with LASER CUT BALSA PARTS !!! The most famous British scout plane of World War 1. Designed and built by the Royal Aircraft Factory, 2,973 S.E. 5 and 5A machines had been delivered by October 1918...

	Saturn 3-Door Coupe Diecast Car 1/18 AUTOart Sale Price: $198.75
	Description In Novemeber of 1998, Saturn revolutionized the two-Door Coupe market by adding a third door to its SC coupes. While a three and four door configurations have become quite popular on pickup trucks in America, Saturn was the first company to manufacture a coupe with a third door...

	Hot Wheels Raptor Blast 5 Car Gift Pack Set w/ 5 Collectible 1:64 Scale Die Cast Cars Sale Price: $28.75
	Description Hot Wheels Raptor Blast 5 Car Gift Pack Set w/ 5 Collectible 1:64 Scale Die Cast Cars

	Anco 30-22 Winter Blade (30-22) List Price: $14.99 Sale Price: $6.50 You save: $8.49 (57%)
	Description Anco, 22", Replacement Winter Wiper Blade, Fits Domestic & Import: Nissan, Toyota, Volkswagon, Mazda, Rubber Boot.

	Littelfuse MIN15 Fuse Sale Price: $2.19
	Description New MINI automotive fuses. 5 per package. Plastic Littelfuse box.

	Wagner BD61445 Wheel Lug Nut Sale Price: $2.82

	Metra 95-2001 Double DIN Installation Dash Kit for Select 1990-Up GM Vehicles List Price: $12.99 Sale Price: $6.69 You save: $6.30 (48%)
	Description Compatible with Buick Cadillac Chevrolet GMC Oldsmobile Pontiac Isuzu modelsDouble DIN radio provisionISO stacked radio provisionHigh grade ABS plastic

	Metra 72-4568 Speaker Harness for Select GM Vehicles Sale Price: $3.54
	Description Metra GM Universal Speaker Harness - Metra 724568.

Saturn Ion 2003-2007 $16.69 Haynes offers the best coverage for cars, trucks, vans, SUVs and motorcycles on the market today. Each manual contains easy to follow step-by-step instructions linked to hundreds of photographs and illustrations. Included in every manual: tro...

Saturn $10 Saturn

Metra Interface for 2006-2007 Saturn Ion and VUE Vehicles $159.99 This interface allows you to easily upgrade your Saturn Ion or VUE's sound system with the installation of an aftermarket radio while retaining OnStar, Chimes and RAP features.

SCOSCHE GM17B Wiring Harness for 2006 Up Saturn Ion $22.09 Wire harness to connect an aftermarket stereo receiver to 2006up saturn ION. Satisfaction ensured. Made from the finest materials.

Saturn Ion Haynes Repair Manual (2003-2007) $17.95 Complete coverage for your Saturn Ion from 2003 thru 2007: Routine Maintenance Tune-up procedures Engine repair Cooling and heating Air Conditioning Fuel and exhaust Emissions control Ignition Brakes Suspension and steering Electrical systems Wiring diagrams

Saturn Ion 2003-2007 $43.18 Haynes offers the best coverage for cars, trucks, vans, SUVs and motorcycles on the market today. Each manual contains easy to follow step-by-step instructions linked to hundreds of photographs and illustrations. Included in every manual: troubleshooting section to help identify specific problems; tips that give valuable short cuts to make the job easier and eliminate the need for special tools; notes, cautions and warnings for the home mechanic; color spark plug diagnosis; and an easy to use index.

Saturn Ion (2003-07) Chilton Manual $17.95 Covers: All Ion models.Chilton Total Car Care is the most complete, step-by-step automotive repair manual you'll ever use. All repair procedures are supported by detailed specifications, exploded views, and photographs. From the simplest repair procedure to the most complex, trust Chilton's Total Car Care to give you everything you need to do the job. Save time and money by doing it yourself, with the confidence only a Chilton Repair Manual can provide.

Scocshe Wiring Harness for 2006 or Later Saturn Ions $14.99 Use this wire harness to install an aftermarket in-dash deck in your 2006 or later Saturn Ion.

Auto Ventshade 92158 Saturn Ion 2-Piece VentVisor (2004-2007) $40.95 The Original VentVisor is precision engineered for an exacting fit and proven protection in rain or heat for your Saturn Ion. It's unique design allows fresh air to naturally circulate through open windows while still keeping passengers and interiors dry in the rain and parked vehicles cooler in extreme heat. Exceptional style and protection for your Saturn Ion, as well as, superior comfort for every passenger.    Features: Keeps The Rain Out Lets Fresh Air In Original Ventvisor Design Reduces Heat Build-Up In Cab Windows Can Be Left Partially Open Install w/3M Adhesive Foam Tape No Drill Installation Limited Lifetime Warranty NOTE: Ventvisors are sometimes referred to as side window rain guards or side window deflectors.     Application: 2004-2007 Saturn Ion (Quad Coupe)   The vehicle(s) that this product fits is subject to change and may fit additional makes, models, or years. Not sure if this will fit? Use the vehicle look-up below:

Auto Ventshade 94723 Saturn Ion 4-Piece VentVisor (2003-2007) $55.95 The Original VentVisor is precision engineered for an exacting fit and proven protection in rain or heat for your Saturn Ion. It's unique design allows fresh air to naturally circulate through open windows while still keeping passengers and interiors dry in the rain and parked vehicles cooler in extreme heat. Exceptional style and protection for your Saturn Ion, as well as, superior comfort for every passenger.    Features: Keeps The Rain Out Lets Fresh Air In Original Ventvisor Design Reduces Heat Build-Up In Cab Windows Can Be Left Partially Open Install w/3M Adhesive Foam Tape No Drill Installation Limited Lifetime Warranty NOTE: Ventvisors are sometimes referred to as side window rain guards or side window deflectors.     Application: 2003-2007 Saturn Ion   The vehicle(s) that this product fits is subject to change and may fit additional makes, models, or years. Not sure if this will fit? Use the vehicle look-up below:

Lion of Saturn $10 Lion of Saturn

Saturn Rings $10 Saturn Rings

Saturn 3 $6.99 Saturn 3

Saturn Skyline $159 Saturn Skyline

Voice Of Saturn $159 Voice Of Saturn

Haynes 87011 $19.98 Haynes 87011 87011 SATURN ION 03-07

Metra 702002 Saturn Vehicle Harness $24.75 Plugs into car Harness for Select 20002005 Saturn Vehicles. High quality factory plug GXL Wire provides flexibility and handles more power. High impact ABS OEM Quality plastic molded connectors. OEM Quality terminals. Allows for the installation of an aftermarket radio using the existing factory wiring and connectors. No cutting of factory wiring needed. Check the Product Instructions to see basic instructions and compatibility list for the Metra 702002. Connections:. Yellow 12V Constant. Red 12V Accessory. Black Ground. Orange Dash Light Dimmer/Illumination. Green Left Rear Speaker (+). Green with Black Stripe Left Rear Speaker (). White Left Front Speaker (+). White with Black Stripe Left Front Speaker (). Purple Right Rear Speaker (+). Purple with Black Stripe Right Rear Speaker (). Gray Right Front Speaker (+). Gray with Black Stripe Right Front Speaker (). Compatible with the following Saturn vehicles: Saturn:. 2003 Ion. 2000 SW1/SW2. 2002 Vue. 2000 2005 LSeries. 2000 2002 SC1/SC2. 2000 2002 SL/SL1/SL2.

Chilton's Saturn Ion, 2003-07, Repair Manual: Covers All U.s. and Canadian Models of Saturn Ion $31.2 No Synopsis Available

Saturn 5 $10 Saturn 5 - Inspiral Carpets

Assenmacher ASS2132 32Mm Oil Filter Socket Saturn Audi $33.48 (32mm 6 flats) Oil Filter Socket Wrench. Applicable: GM: newer models with 4 cylinder Ecotec engine. Saab: 93 2003. Saturn: Ion 4 cylinder Ecotec. Steel construction. Also available in the AST 2100 kit.

Metra 702102 Saturn 20042005 Turbowire Harness $25.43 Car Harness for Select 20042005 Saturn Vehicles. 24Pin plug. High quality factory plug GXL Wire provides flexibility and handles more power. High impact ABS OEM Quality plastic molded connectors. OEM Quality terminals. Allows for the installation of an aftermarket radio using the existing factory wiring and connectors. No cutting of factory wiring needed. 1year Manufacturer s warranty. Connections:. Yellow 12V Constant. Red 12V Accessory. Black Ground. Orange Dash Light Dimmer/Illumination. Green Left Rear Speaker (+). Green with Black Stripe Left Rear Speaker (). White Left Front Speaker (+). White with Black Stripe Left Front Speaker (). Purple Right Rear Speaker (+). Purple with Black Stripe Right Rear Speaker (). Gray Right Front Speaker (+). Gray with Black Stripe Right Front Speaker (). Compatible with the following vehicle:. Saturn:. 2004 2005 Ion. 2004 2005 Vue.

Cutting White Wire on Saturn Ion