2005 Saturn ION Quad Coupe Red Line Road Test

Back to Red Line, the new performance compact has nothing to do with the sedan - at least Saturn hasn't announced any decisions to parlay a 4-door variant yet. Rather it starts life as a sassy little Quad Coupe;

Unlike many cars in this category the ION coupe's back passenger seats are reasonably comfortable and easily accessible. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

quad because rear seat access is optimized by a slick set of rear hinged half-doors. Unlike many cars in this category the ION coupe's back passenger seats are reasonably comfortable if your height challenge is biased towards the lesser end of the scale. Getting in and out is a cinch due to the extra set of doors, and in Red Line trim the seats are superb. Racing seat maestros Recaro build the exclusive perches, and they're some of the best I've ever tested. Not only are they comfortable, but each effectively holds back and buttocks in lockdown during aggressive maneuvers. Finished in a high-quality blue and black fabric, the upscale seats add a touch of sporty elegance to the compact super coupe.

On that note I wish Saturn had turned to an aftermarket supplier when it came to sourcing the steering wheel. While Mazda looks to Nardi and Subaru opts for Momo in their respective sport models (check across the showroom at the superb example in the Subaru WRX-based

While the steering wheel might not be up to par, the rest of the car is a masterpiece by Saturn standards. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

Saab 9-2x), the ION Red Line makes due with a slightly upgraded stock Saturn wheel. While improved over the previous version, with a thicker, more substantial leather grip, the indented spokes just don't fit my smallish hands comfortably, and by so doing left me feeling less than totally in control.

But that, and the desire to have interior tactile quality to Mazda3 or VW GTI levels are my only complaints, which you would know is saying a great deal if you make a point of reading my diatribes on a regular basis. The fact is Saturn has created a little masterpiece. While the steering wheel might not be up to par, the response to steering input and general feel from the road is fantastic. It's now one of the more connected cars in its class, capable of steeling bragging rights from just about any rival contender.