Saturn Ion
The Saturn Ion is a compact car known for its polymer body panels and the supercharged Red Line performance model. The Red Line is the focus of collector interest, offering an affordable entry into early 2000s sport compacts.
Find one with Spotter →Typical sold price of a Saturn Ion ranges from $1,224 to $11,000, based on 43 sales tracked on Hypercars. 12 currently for sale.
The Saturn Ion replaced the brand's long-running S-Series in 2003, built on GM's global Delta platform. The Ion continued Saturn's tradition of using dent-resistant polymer body panels over a steel spaceframe and introduced quirky features like a center-mounted instrument cluster. Available as a sedan or a unique 'quad coupe' with rear-hinged access doors, the Ion was a staple of GM's entry-level offerings until its discontinuation in 2007.
Collector interest is almost exclusively focused on the Ion Red Line. Introduced in 2004, the Red Line featured a 2.0L supercharged Ecotec LSJ engine producing 205 horsepower, a 5-speed manual Getrag F35 transmission, and a sport-tuned suspension. It shared its potent powertrain with the Chevrolet Cobalt SS, making it an interesting and often overlooked performance car from the era. Its unique styling and GM Performance Division pedigree make it a curiosity for modern collectors.
The market for the Ion is small, with only clean, low-mileage Red Line models commanding attention. With an average sale price around $8,367, these cars represent an accessible entry point for 2000s performance. The best examples have sold for as much as $15,000, suggesting a growing appreciation for this niche sport compact.
Buying Tips
- Focus on the Red Line model for collectibility. Its 2.0L supercharged LSJ engine is robust, but listen for supercharger rattle and check for signs of aftermarket abuse.
- The polymer body panels don't rust, but the underlying steel spaceframe can. Inspect the subframes and suspension mounting points for corrosion.
- Interior quality wasn't a strong point. Check for cracked dash plastics, worn seat bolsters, and ensure the center-mounted digital gauges function correctly.
- Red Lines used a Getrag 5-speed manual. Feel for crunchy shifts or worn synchros, which can indicate a hard life.
Based on recent sales, prices range from around $4,000 for base models to $15,000 for top-spec Red Line examples.
43 Saturn Ion vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 12 currently live. Sold prices range from $500 to $15,000.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Saturn Ion cost?
Based on 43 sales tracked on Hypercars, Saturn Ion prices typically range from $1,224 to $11,000. There are 12 currently for sale.
How many Saturn Ion listings are for sale right now?
There are 12 Saturn Ion listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.