2008 Saturn ION Quad Coupe Review

The 2008 Saturn Ion Quad Coupe comes in three models, the Ion-2 ($13,890), the Ion-3 ($16,590), and the Ion Red Line(2) ($20,420.) Both the standard coupes have 16-valve four-cylinder engines (2.2 liter, 145 hp on the Ion-2, and 2.4 liter 175 hp on the Ion-3). Both also come standard with a five-speed manual transmission, though a four-speed automatic is also available. The Red Line's engine is a 205 horsepower 2.0 liter four-cylinder Ecotec engine, and it also has a five-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy estimates by configuration range from 23 mpg city/ 29 highway (Red Line) to 26/35 (Ion-2.)

The Ions have anti-lock brakes with traction control, battery run-down protection for the interior and cargo area lighting, daytime running lamps, and an array of air bags including a passenger sensing system and head curtain airbags in front as well as multi-stage front-impact bags. There is also an emergency trunk release handle, energy absorbing instrument panel / steering column, and an engine immobilizer.

The standard audio system on the Ion-2 is an AM/FM/CD unit with the Ion-3 and Red Line picking up MP3 capability. On all versions of the 2008 Ion Quad Coupe, a six-disc, in-dash changer and XM Satellite Radio are optional.