2002 Saab 9-3 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.53/5 Average
95 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The base 9-3 three- and five-door models have been replaced by a value-priced SE five-door. High-performance Viggen models get a new interior color and a carbon-fiber instrument panel.

Pros:
  • Comfy interior, versatile hatchback model, powerful turbocharged engines.
Cons:
  • Controls not always intuitive, torque steer in Viggen models.

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 95.00
  • Got lucky and didnt get a lemon - 2002 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Thought Id add my two cents. Had an issue with the loose screw in the trunk which made rattling noise. Plastics inside vehicles also make rattling noise at high speed but manageable. Mines manual, and so far at 68K over 2.5 years, I havent had any problems with it. I drive mostly on the highways and drive fast. Starts slow but once it gets moving, hitting 100 is easy. I knew going in that reliability is an issue but Im crossing my fingers that mine will last a while longer...

  • Surprising - 2002 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I have owned three convertibles but this one is the best by far. I was not in the market for a Saab, I was looking at BMW and MB and Chrylser. The BMWs styling was old and the tops come with plastic windows. The MB CLK was nice but too pricey. I test drove the Saab and loved it. It is the quickest off the line and the top is great. The car has no rattles and wind noise is nonexistent. I drove the Volvo C70 to compare and it was slower, handled less well, rattled and was noisey with the top up. The back seats are useful, unlike any other car I considered. It is a great luxury sports car and the price is reasonable.

  • Our new toy! - 2002 Saab 9-3
    By -

    We bought our convertible 9-3 a couple months ago and we love it. The car gets good gas mileage (23-25MPG) around town where it is mostly driven. The handling is great and the turbo pickup is excellent. This is my first SAAB and am enjoying every moment of ownership. The pricing is so good on used SAABs that you cant go wrong. If your on the fence just do it..buy the car and have fun. Life is too short not to enjoy a little topless driving in the sun. They say once you own a SAAB youll own another...Im starting to believe it now. Do your homework, make sure the car you buy is of quality and go for it!

  • Watch out for the police - 2002 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Saab Viggen rquires a lot more agressive driving than BMS 3 series (use to own a couple). The car performance and handling substantially inproves at higher speeds and RPM. The ride feels not as comfortable at "Lexus" type driving. Dont waste your money on this car if you are a timid driver. Otherwise welcome aboard the SAAB VIGGEN.

  • Fun, Fun, Fun - 2002 Saab 9-3
    By -

    The 9-3 Convertible is a complete gas to drive. Peppy, with excellent seats and a ragtop. Wont write any records off the line, but goes from 20-70 in a snap. Very smooth highway ride.

  • Great Value - 2002 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Great vale for your money! If you want a conv that is fun to drive and has great looks this is the car to have. In the two years that I have had the car I have not had one problem.

  • Viggen Convertible - 2002 Saab 9-3
    By -

    For those looking for a "true" sport convertible with a real backseat, the Viggen should most definately be considered. The car is fast, well made, with very good space and fuel efficient to boot. I live in New England which is Saab territory, but Viggens are rarely seen on roads (I like that)Very much a 4season convertible(though,watch out for bad weather given the fat tires) & still fun to drive with top up. Also did the Flight School which was a total blast. I got a very good deal, which made my decision easy when combined with attributes of Viggen vs. competitiors (BMW, Volvo, MERC, US).

  • fun but problems/not like the old saabs - 2002 Saab 9-3
    By -

    2 hands on wheel when accelerating as car pulls-dlr says it the size of tires on these models; right pax seat not reclining since new-have taken to dealer 4 times already;battery dead at 26k;4 tires needed replacing at 8k and another one at 15k;no power door lock button inside-have to manually push lock down/cupholder right where the stereo is-what if your drink leaks,etc;owned a 1991 when built by saab-not gm-as they are now;disappointed w/car for price-i wouldnt buy another;lmtd dealers in area-only 1-have to drive miles for service-requires 93 octane fuel;main svc prices start at $500-$600 for the 30-50-60K svcs;

  • Shake, Rattle, & Knocks - 2002 Saab 9-3
    By -

    While I thoroughly enjoy the ride and performance, I am sorely disappointed in the interior fit and finish. From delivery, we have had seriously annoying interior clunks, rattles and the like. This car has made more noise than a 10 year old Rambler American I owned in the early 70s. Not what I expected when I paid $27k for a supposed quality vehicle.

  • Better than expected - 2002 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I purchased my new 93 last week. I was deciding between a loaded Honda Accord and the 93. I am very happy with my decision. The Saab offers great syling and performance for about $30.00 more per month in comparible lease terms to the Accord. After owning a number of "utilitarian" type cars, the Saab 93 has made it is fun to drive again.

Saab 9-3 Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area