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Acceleration
"The 140-hp Ions are spry enough, take about 9.5 sec 0-60 with manual transmission.
The 170-hp engine feels only slightly stronger. Red Line feels as potent as Saturn's
claimed 6.3 sec 0-60-mph time. All feel liveliest once under way. Manual transmission
has pleasant shift action, with shorter throws on Red Line. Automatic quick to
downshift, doesn't hurt acceleration much. Despite traction control, test manual-transmission
sedan suffered much tire slip in fast takeoffs, especially on wet pavement. "
Value
"Most rivals are more mechanically refined and have nicer interior decor, but
Ion holds its own for roominess and, especially in Red Line trim, for performance.
No-rust, ding-resistant plastic body panels are an asset, as are the coupes'
rear access doors."
Ride
"Mainstream Ions' firm, controlled suspension readily soaks up small bumps, but
can jolt over larger ones. Red Line stiffer, but not punishing."
Economy
"Test 140-hp models averaged 24.9-25.4 mpg with either transmission. Test 170-hp
model with manual transmission averaged 26.0 mpg. Test Red Lines averaged 19.4-19.6.
Saturn recommends premium-grade fuel for Red Line and 170-hp engine, regular
for 140-hp Ions."
Noise
"Wind noise well-muted, but noticeable engine whine at high rpm and excess coarse-pavement
thrum with 16- and 17-inch tires. Red Line suffers more engine and tire noise."
Comfort - Front
"Ample head and leg room even for tall adults. Visibility fine to all quarters
in sedans, hampered over the shoulder in coupes by rear roof pillars. Seat comfort
OK in mainstream models; Red Line's seats add prominent bolsters for extra lateral
support."
Comfort - Rear
"Coupes have only two seatbelts. Sedans have three, but a middle adult will be
squeezed. Comfort acceptable either way, though no excess of foot space, and
head room tight for 6-footers. Coupe's rear doors ease entry/exit, but require
uncomfortable reach for seated passengers to close."
Controls
"Large, legible main gauges sit in a central dashtop pod, a layout that annoys
some testers. Controls generally simple, handy, clearly labeled. Red Line's optional
Competition Package adds racy programmable shift lights on the steering column,
but all models suffer low-buck interior look and feel."
Cargo Room
"All models have good trunk volume for the class, a low liftover, and 60/40 split
rear seatbacks that fold flat. Coupes' drop-down front-passenger seatback allows
carrying items up to 10-ft long with trunklid closed."
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