The fact that Saturn is now in the game makes perfect sense, being one of the more import-oriented brands General Motors

The performance tuned Red Line makes perfect sense for the import-oriented Saturn brand. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

oversees. It's strategically positioned to share showroom traffic with Swedish premium carmaker Saab, another GM brand, probably benefiting Saab more than Saturn considering most new car buyers swim upstream when trading in than paddling down, which is all the more reason to enhance Saturn's image and lure more performance-oriented buyers into the family net.

I drove the 2003 ION sedan when it debuted and was only partially impressed. The styling was and still is unique in the compact sector while its 140 horsepower engine performs better than average, and

Saturn listened to the criticisms made by journalists about the 2003 ION's interior, and have improved it noticeably. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

handling is pretty good for the class, but I never felt the engineers had pulled as much out of GM's competent Delta chassis architecture as they could have. The interior quality was a giant letdown as well, with substandard plastics and switchgear.

What a difference a year makes. Saturn listened to complaints donated freely by journalists and owners alike, and improved the tactile quality of the ION interior. I wouldn't go so far as to say the 2004 car is best in class or anything, but it's a far cry better than the 2003 cars were. From what I understand the 2005 sedan will improve on the improvements even further - I'll write more on that subject in a future column.