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Saturn: Saturn ION
The two ION models are completely new from the ground up and offer surprising refinement for the small-car segment. Even the name is new, since they replace the pioneering S-Series in the Saturn lineup. Both the four-door sedan and the "quad coupe" - so-called because of its dual rear-access doors (RADs) - are built on the new General Motors Delta global small-car architecture. The quad coupe's dual RADs represent an industry first, resulting in the creation of a new category of vehicle and a new, more functional small car.
Attracting younger buyers The new models also will play an important role in GM's entry-level strategy to attract more young buyers by providing a selection of vehicles with high value and fresh designs. One of the keys to attracting young buyers will be an emphasis on making it easy for customers to personalize their vehicles through "personal accents" kits. Planned exterior customization includes interchangeable roof rails that are color-coordinated with interior trim kits consisting of bezels for the center-mounted instrument panel, shifter and HVAC control panel. Saturn also plans to offer a full range of retailer-installed accessories when the IONs are introduced.
Another important plus for young buyers is that both the ION sedan and quad coupe will have significant safety content - a hallmark of the Saturn brand. The ION small cars continue the ongoing revitalization of Saturn's product portfolio, which for 2003 also includes the VUE compact sport-utility vehicle and the refreshed L-Series mid-size sedan and wagon. The ION will be built along with the VUE in a partial split-line arrangement at Saturn's manufacturing facility in Spring Hill, Tenn.
Like all Saturns, the ION sedan and quad coupe will be sold and serviced through Saturn's award-winning network of retailers who are recognized leaders in satisfying customers. Saturn retailers have finished number one in the J. D. Power and Associates Sales Satisfaction Index for six of the last seven years. Distinctive siblings While siblings, the sedan and quad coupe use distinctive exterior styling cues, but leave little doubt that both are Saturn family members. The ION sedan brings a refined, sophisticated, contemporary look to its segment. Meanwhile, the quad coupe creates an entirely new product category by incorporating rear-access doors on both the driver and passenger side and an overall sporty flair. Both vehicles continue the Saturn tradition of polymer side panels, including the integral upswept "swoosh" body side styling. Inside, a unique feature is the incorporation of a center-mounted instrument cluster. This innovative styling cue not only makes the sedan and quad coupe more distinctive, but also enhances the driving experience by helping keep the eyes closer to the horizon. In addition, positioning the instrument cluster in the center allows the driver to comfortably position the steering wheel, without having to position it to read instrument gauges. The center-cluster design made it possible to give the ION a unique, small diameter steering wheel, part of an interior design that focuses on harmony and overall refinement. Other examples include tactile surfaces throughout, thin structural A-pillars, and a sloped center console to enhance the perception of airiness while improving ergonomics and visibility. New architecture Built on GM's all-new Delta architecture, the five-passenger sedan and four-passenger quad coupe continue Saturn's traditional spaceframe construction. The new architecture allows the ION models to be substantially bigger than their predecessors - approximately 2 inches taller and 6 inches longer - providing a more significant command of the road. In addition, a wider track (approximately 2 inches front and rear) and longer wheelbase delivers a more substantial presence. The new, stiffer Delta architecture leads to significant improvements in noise and vibration, as do hydraulic engine mounts, dual balance shafts on the Ecotec powerplant, and enhanced noise dampening throughout the vehicle. On the inside, the seating position is significantly higher for both front and rear occupants, improving entry and egress and providing a more commanding view of the road. The quad coupe is equipped with "fold-flat" passenger front and rear seats for enhanced functionality to the small-car market. Both models feature significant interior storage, including three bins in the instrument panel, CD storage in the console, and map pockets in both the front and rear doors. In addition, the ION sedan is expected to have the most trunk room in its class - and the quad coupe's dual RADs and fold-flat seats bring so much versatility that even items such as a stepladder, or even a small kayak, can be toted in its interior compartment. Fun to drive Both the ION sedan and quad coupe are equipped with an outstanding powerplant that delivers fun-to-drive performance when mated to any of three state-of-the-art transmissions. The Ecotec 2.2-liter, GM's global four-cylinder engine, is standard in all vehicles. Currently offered in the Saturn VUE sport-utility vehicle and Saturn L-Series mid-size cars, the Ecotec becomes available for the first time in a Saturn small car with the ION models. The 137-horsepower, 16-valve, dual overhead cam (DOHC) powerplant incorporates dual balance shafts for quiet operation and provides excellent response in a wide range of driving situations. A world-class, five-speed manual transmission is standard for all ION models. GM Powertrain's VTi automatic transmission - a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides an infinite number of gear ratios over a wide overall ratio range - is optional on base and mid-level models. This is the first application of a CVT on a high-volume compact passenger car in North America. The VTi allows the engine to operate more efficiently than a traditional step-ratio automatic transmission. This enables the vehicle to achieve nearly the same fuel economy as a manual transmission, while still providing excellent launch performance along with smooth and responsive power delivery. Up-level sedans and quad coupes are available with a five-speed automatic step-gear transmission - a feature typically reserved for premium vehicles. Compared to conventional automatics, the five-speed provides closer steps between ratios for acceleration when needed, particularly during passing. The ION models are equipped with an electronic power steering (EPS) system - a first-time small-car application on a domestic GM vehicle. EPS contributes to gains in fuel efficiency by eliminating the power steering pump. The speed-sensitive system incorporates variable effort steering that is tuned to optimize customer feel and effort. Independent front and semi-independent torsion beam rear suspensions, along with front and rear stabilizer bars, a wider track, and a longer wheelbase add to the ION models' improved ride and handling over their S-series predecessors. The ION models' turning circle also has been engineered to provide the maneuverability expected in the competitive small-car segment. Advanced safety features The ION sedan and quad coupe carry on the Saturn tradition of leadership in the areas of safety and security. The world-class structural design provides the foundation for a safe environment. The spaceframe's front and rear crush zones help absorb the energy of a crash while protecting the integrity of the safety cage. Dual-stage driver and passenger air bags are standard, and Saturn's innovative head-curtain air bag system - which help reduce the risk of head and neck injuries for both front and rear occupants in certain side impact collisions - is optional. In addition, front seatbelt pretensioners, three-point safety belts for all seating positions, and new LATCH (Lower Anchorages and Tethers for Children) child-seat attachment system are all standard equipment.
OnStar, with its array of safety, security and convenience features, is available as an option on both the ION sedan and quad coupe - a segment first that will take Saturn's reputation for safety and security to an even higher level. Small-car market The Saturn ION sedan and quad coupe will compete in a small-car market that accounts for sales of more than two million units per year, about 14 percent of the total U.S. new vehicle market. Approximately 30 percent of small-car purchasers are first-time new vehicle buyers. The ION models continue Saturn's historic position of offering premium small cars - competing primarily with Asian imports - and targeting a more educated, informed target market with their safety and quality brand attributes. Like all Saturn products, the ION sedan and quad coupe were designed to appeal to customers who would have otherwise bought a non-GM product. More than 75 percent of Saturn buyers list a competitive make as their second-choice vehicle, with over half saying they would have bought an import brand. photos: General Motors, Automotive Intelligence
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