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.