Nissan Maxima vs Saturn Ion
The Saturn Ion is more fuel-efficient at 26 MPG combined, against 21 MPG for the Nissan Maxima. At EPA assumptions that is about $600 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Nissan Maxima | Saturn Ion | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,726 | 1,124 |
| Most reported problem | Transmission | Electrical system |
| Crashes and fires | 43 and 32 | 78 and 6 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 79,000 miles | 70,000 miles |
| Recalls | 2 | 8 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 21 MPG | 26 MPG |
| City and highway | 18 and 25 | 23 and 32 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $3,200 | $2,600 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,726 complaints for the Nissan Maxima and 1,124 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: 2 for the Nissan Maxima, 8 for the Saturn Ion.