Overhaulin' the 2009 Saturn Ion

The Saturn Ion is due for an overhaul. Created as GM's answer to the import compact, its build and quality problems have plagued it, and its design hasn't delivered the import-lovers. In 2008, scheduled to hit dealerships perhaps in 2009, GM wants to change all of that with the new Ion — or Evoke, as GM says might be the vehicle's new name. GM will phase the current Ion (pictured) out at the end of 2006, leaving a good chunk of time for the brand to go without a compact sedan.
Based on the Chevy Cobalt, GM says that its new styling direction will take cues from the Opel Vectra to better attract the elusive import crowd. Moving the car's production away from Spring Hill means that the vehicle will probably replace its plastic panels with steel sheetmetal, to boot.