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Introduction
General Motor's Performance Division has been responsible for several of the latest automobile enthusiast's entrees. Included are the Chevrolet Silverado SS and the Pontiac Grand Prix GXP. Both of these vehicles are sport-tuned, high power versions of already-existing base models. GM titles them "High-Performance Variants." Now, souped-up Chevys and Pontiacs are nothing new. However, for 2004, a new player cycles through the Performance Division wash. Saturn's ION can now be stained "Red Line," as enthusiast-oriented modifications evoke spirited driving at the limits. Red Line is part of an effort at Saturn to revamp the image of this carmaker known for being "different" and "family friendly". That is, the Saturn brand does not just represent economical, no-haggle vehicles with "hip" modern styling. ION Red Line specifically targets the 'tuner" market, or those customers seeking compact, FWD, 4-cylinder cars that are easily modifiable. Think Honda Civic with neon paint, ground effects, and front and rear spoilers. Tuner cars like the Civic originated in Southern California, but have grown popular nationwide. Saturn hopes to expand its customer base by appealing to the twenty-somethings who typically invest in these cars. Saturn will even offer a Red Line version of the VUE SUV. Glance quickly at the ION Red Line, and you know it exceeds basic transportation status. Rocker moldings along the sides accentuate the connection with the pavement, while unique front and rear fascias wrap the ends. Up front, a large air dam is located in the standard position below the grille and headlights.
Ion Red Line Tech
However, auxiliary vents positioned directly ahead of the front wheels collect air from the front, and provide even more flow. A special fascia covers the tail end, but the real attraction back there is the large wing mounted to the trunklid. Several different versions are available. Modifications inside include heavily-bolstered Recaro racing-style seats, special foot pedals, and a short throw shifter. All IONs now get improved materials and fabrics inside, including "soft touch" paint on the center stack. That stack includes Saturn's traditional center-mounted instrument cluster, a feature that receives high customer approval, according to the company. Aesthetic improvements, both inside and out, are well appreciated by the tuner crowd. However, the real magic has to occur behind the sheetmetal. Fortunately for Saturn, the considerable effort invested into making the guts of the ION Red Line race worthy show. Start with the engine. The 2.2-liter Ecotec inline-4 that propels base IONs has undergone extensive reworking. Most notably, an Eaton supercharger with a water-to-air intercooler was added to the engine's intake system. This required a stronger crank and connecting rods, as well as a slight drop in compression ratio (9.5:1 vs. 10.0:1). Larger valves, a heavier alternator, and an all-new drive-by-wire throttle system have also been added. A high-flow, performance tuned exhaust system releases waste gases. Displacement has decreased slightly to 2 liters, but with the addition of a blower Saturn says the Red Line is good for 200 hp. and 200 lb.-ft. of torque. Compared to the 140 hp. and 145 lb.-ft. in the naturally aspirated 2.2, this output is largely significant in a vehicle this small. Power is routed through a 5-speed Getrag manual transmission - Red Lines will not see the 5-speed automatics or continuously variable automatic versions used in other ION variations.
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