2003 Saab 9-3 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.34/5 Average
375 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2003 9-3 is an all-new design from top to bottom. It rides on a new platform, has new engines and an interior that's considerably more modern than the previous version.

Pros:
  • Sharp handling, frugal yet powerful engines, generous passenger room, class-leading trunk space, excellent audio systems.
Cons:
  • Some turbo lag at lower speeds, not as vaultlike as some of its European competitors, front-wheel drive also a slight disadvantage.

User Reviews:

Showing 141 through 150 of 375.00
  • Take a drive! - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    The car is amazing. I bought it last year and it runs perfectly. Comfortable, reliable, and for those of you who would never consider a Saab in the past, you may want to start looking :).

  • Never Again - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Bought this car brand new in 03. Decided on this instead of the BMW 330 Convertible because of price and the BMWs are everywhere. What a mistake! While fun to drive, it has been a maintenance nightmare compared to any other car Ive ever driven. Fuel pump failure (huh?) at 56K, CLUTCH at 70K, A/C compressor at 48K, wheel bearing at 80K, Ignitor Coil at 80K. Compare to my 86 325: original clutch at 150K; my 83 Tercel: original clutch at 150K. I work with a guy that has an 02 9-5 - same problems. No wonder the resale value of Saabs stinks. Stay away from Saab!

  • Fun to Drive - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Best handling car Ive ever driven. Beats its German competitors hands down,

  • Great car! - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I bought this Saab-Certified car about four months ago and am very happy so far. The fuel economy is great, 33 mpg hwy and runs on regular fuel. There is a little more road noise than I care for and the stereo could be better, but these are minor issues. Not quite a 3-series or A4, but priced thousands $ less. Overall, this is a fun to drive car and is very economical. I would buy another one.

  • My Sabb - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Ive loved my car ever since I bought it. It is really fun to drive.

  • Great Swedish Sport - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    My Black ARC is definitely the best Car Ive ever owned. My smile starts every time I click the key fob to unlock the door, and the light flash a quick Hello. Everything you read about the great safety features, can be matched with the performance and attention to user details (for the driver and all the passengers). Saab shows its serious about building a great car, not marketing hype.

  • Overall a great car - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I bought this car after more than a years worth of research. Test drove BMW 325,Audi A4,VW Passat GLS,Acura TSX and found the 9-3 to have the perfect combination of power, luxury, and roominess. For the money, there arent many better options. The TSX was nice, but too bland and too much like the Honda Civic I was replacing. There is a slight bit of Turbo lag in the Saab, but not very noticeable. VW did not handle as tight as I preferrred, though it was a good overall value. BMW was a tad too small and pricey for what you get. Unfortuantely my Saab does have the door panel rattle problem, but Saab is working on a fix. Otherwise it is an awesome car.

  • new arc automatic - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    mild turbo lag...zoom. fun drive. love all the creature comforts. only complaint is memory buttons are unlit and a little unaccessable.

  • Fun lively ride - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I have no complaints about car, turbo acceleration is flawless, overtaking is amazing and I have only 2.0t!!! Just overall sexy!! My only problem is airbag light, but I will get that fixed.

  • We both love this car - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Those who have rated the car poorly in this forum must really like the old hatchback style, but thats why I never owned one before. This car is beautiful both inside and out. Some said its cheap and GM ruined it, but if you read the automative journals, this is the best car Saab ever produced. The linear model is fast enough for me. It accerlates quickly and gets up to speed in seconds. Handling is this cars best attribute. It simply carves up twisty back roads. The interior is laid out very well. There are a ton of features and the profiler system is great. Put simply, this car is terrific. I have never gotten up early on a weekend just to go for a drive!!

Saab 9-3 Reviews By Year:
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