Nissan Altima vs Saturn Ion
The Saturn Ion is more fuel-efficient at 25 MPG combined, against 23 MPG for the Nissan Altima. At EPA assumptions that is about $200 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Nissan Altima | Saturn Ion | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,099 | 962 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Electrical system |
| Crashes and fires | 61 and 16 | 64 and 4 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 86,000 miles | 72,000 miles |
| Recalls | 4 | 5 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 23 MPG | 25 MPG |
| City and highway | 20 and 27 | 22 and 30 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,900 | $2,700 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,099 complaints for the Nissan Altima and 962 for the Saturn Ion. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 4 for the Nissan Altima, 5 for the Saturn Ion.