• Established in the 1980s, the Saturn Corporation--a branch of General Motors--proved itself a leader in the automobile industry. Saturn attempted to not only develop cost-effective vehicles, but also be different from the competitors by staying focusing on customer satisfaction. In 2009, General Motors ended their investment in the Saturn Corporation due to bankruptcy proceedings. The 2003 Saturn Ion 3 was released as a vehicle designed to appeal to younger auto consumers.
  
  

Models

• The Ion 3 is called "3" because that is the type of trim that the vehicle comes with. Alternative versions of the Ion were available in trims "1" and "2." The 2003 Ion 3 was offered as a four-door compact car or a sedan. The sedan can hold up to five passengers while the coupe has a more modest four-passenger limit. Both styles of vehicles come with rear-access doors. The rear-access doors of the quad coupe make the Ion 3 the first compact car to be available with these types of doors.
  
  

Features and Engine

• The 2003 Saturn Ion 3 comes standard with a 2.2L, inline four-cylinder engine that maxes out at 140 horsepower at 5,800 RPM. The Ion 3 generates 145 ft.-lbs. of torque at 4,400 RPM and is equipped with EPS, or electric power steering, that provides enhanced fuel efficiency. The transmission is available in both a five-speed automatic or manual. A special version, the VTi variable transmission, was also offered on the quad coupe versions of the Ion 3. The vehicle comes standard with an AM/FM radio and a CD and cassette player. The 2003 Ion 3 also features an air filter for the interior and a keyless entry remote. Power windows and mirrors are standard equipment.
  
  

Pricing and Safety

• The 2003 Ion 3 had an original manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $11,995. The car comes with front airbags and running lights for added safety. Side airbags could be added as an option as well as an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).