2006 Saturn Ion in Fort Mill, SC - $1,999

After a laundry list of improvements and enhancements for the ION line last year, the small Saturn continues its momentum for 2006 with a redesigned center stack and an optional power package. Manufactured exclusively at Saturn’s home assembly plant in Spring Hill, Tenn., the ION Quad Coupe is available in ION2 or ION3 trim levels and powered by a Ecotec 2.2L four-cylinder engine bolted to a Getrag F23 five-speed manual gearbox. A Hydra-Matic 4T45-E four-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission is an available option.

For 2006, Saturn introduces the Enhanced Performance Package. Available on models in the ION3 trim, the power-boosting package includes the following upgrades and enhancements: 2.4L Ecotec in-line four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing, sport-tuned suspension, traction control and four-wheel anti-lock brakes.

On the road, the Quad Coupe equipped with the Enhanced Performance Package is one fun ride. Nimble, responsive, balanced and stable at speed, the ION never gets ugly for the driver â€"- even when pushed. GM's global Delta vehicle architecture serves as a solid foundation for the ION's control hardware. The suspension setup consists of an independent front with a semi-independent torsion-beam rear suspension system. Front and rear stabilizer bars work to keep everything connected.

Inside, the passenger cabin is large and airy -- with an instrument cluster positioned in the center of the dashboard as opposed to directly in front of the driver. According to the folks at Saturn, this innovative styling cue is designed to actually enhance the driving experience by helping keep the eyes of the driver closer to the horizon. This also allows the driver to comfortably position the steering wheel, without the need to adjust it to read the instrument gauges.

For 2006, the most apparent change is a redesigned center console/center stack that provides additional inboard knee and leg clearance with enhanced fits and appearance. The new design provides additional storage above the radio for storing sunglasses, mobile phone, spare change or other small items. Other enhancements include new fabric for the ION3 interior. Rear seat passengers enjoy ample room. Wide opening access doors facilitate easy entry and exit. The 60/40 split rear seat is operated from release levers located in the trunk.



Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 103.2; overall length: 185.0; width: 67.9; height: 56.0 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 2.2L four-cylinder -- 145 hp at 5,600 rpm and 150 lbs-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm; 2.4L four-cylinder -- 175 hp at 6,200 rpm and 164 lbs-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed manual, four-speed electronically controlled automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 2.2L four-cylinder -â€" 26 city/35 hwy., (manual); 24 city/32 hwy.,(automatic); 2.4L four-cylinder -â€" 25 city/34 hwy., (manual); 24 city/32hwy., (automatic).

Cargo capacity: 14.2 cu. ft.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, battery run-down protection, daytime running lamps, engine immobilizer and OnStar communications system with one-year Safe & Sound Plan. ION3 adds automatic headlamp control. Optional safety features include four-wheel anti-lock brakes, traction control and head curtain airbags.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 Saturn ION Quad Coupe starts from $12,900 for the ION2 manual and $15,600 for the ION3 coupe. Destination charges add $590.

#####