I've currently got a 1997 SL1 and I love the car, but it's getting on in years and some days I wonder if it's more trouble to fix than it's really worth. But I'm looking at the Ion if I do get a new car, and I'm wondering how it compares. I'd stick with the manual transmission, and I want the coupe, not the sedan this time.

I'm wondering how gas mileage compares and how different they are to drive. The only times my SL1 has ever gotten less than 30 MPG are when something went horribly wrong. Typically I'm in the mid 30's (though with the weather it's been more like 33 lately), and although a newer car is within my budget, I don't want to take too big of a hit on the mileage. http://www.fueleconomy.gov says my SL1 should be getting me 27, but the Ion should only get 25 combined. Every car has it's problems, but are there any common ones I should be watching for when buying an Ion?

Thanks in advance for any advice you have!

 

If you get an ION be sure it's a 2005 or newer. Do not get a 2003-2004 Quad Coupe they have the nasty VTI (JUNK) transmission that GM sourced from Fiat. I've had a few S cars and one ION. I like my 2.4L 175hp 2007 ION Quad Coupe much more. Average 28 combined.

 

I think a 2005 would probably be about my spending limit. Working part time sucks, but when the local unemployment rate is above the national average, it's pretty much expected. What was so wrong with the VTI transmissions? And 28 isn't so bad, a bit lower than I was hoping, but not bad.

 

I think sw put it prefect..............The transmission is junk for a lack of any other word. Let me think for a second, nope the transmission is junk.

I've had 10 S-CARS all new. I've had 5 ION's all new. I'll take the ION before the S-CAR any day. I also have a 2007 with the enhanced performance pkg that includeds the 175hp 2.4L, sport suspension, ABS, and traction control. Mileage to date is 28.489 combined. The standard 2.2L does a touch better. Problems, ignition switch, park solinoid, swaybar bushings and end links. The S-CAR had the same problems and more minus swaybar bushings and endlinks.

Enhanced Performance Package offered in 2006 and 2007.

 

Well considering a junk transmission is my current problem with my SL1, I guess I'll shy away unless I find a great deal on the right car. I just need a daily driver for a relatively short commute. And something to haul around some groceries and little things like that. The biggest thing I put in my SL1 was the TV my aunt gave me, and that was just perfect on the floor in back.

I've seen the passlock II issues on other cars, my dad's 98 Malibu and 04 Monte Carlo, as well as his girlfriend's 99 Alero, so I'm familiar with replacing ignition switches. And a park solenoid isn't too relevant to the manual transmission that is pretty much my only requirement.

 

S car trannys aren't junk. Can they wear out do they wear out? Yes. You'd be lucky to get 25K on a VTI without problems. Cost to repair......insane. So no Quad Coupe VTI (AUTO) transmission.

 

Alright, and what about the manual transmissions in the Ions?

 

Moring Josh:
The VTI is junk, and it only came in the 2003-2004 QuadCpe.... Your going to get a manual, no problems at all. They are as good as anything on the road. As stated get a 2005 or newer ION Cpe or Sdn. Come 2005 the upgrades were going strong, a few more in 2006, many more in 2007. All little things but by 2007 the ION was a damn damn nice car evan if they all look the same.

Thanks for doing your signature, nice to have a bit info.

PS: I was born and raised in Minnesota.........but not in the southern tropics as you.

 

Guess I'll have to skip on the Ion then. My budget is rather limited and so 2005 is pushing it.

But southern tropics, that's cute considering we were still getting snow on Wednesday.

 

He's saying the ION is just fine. You just do not want a 2003 or 2004 quad coupe with the VTI auto transmission.