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 161 through 170 of 375.00
  • Keep the top down - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I pored over internet resources to search for a four seat convertible that would handle my family of four and New England winters. I upgraded from a Chrysler Sebring and havent looked back. I traveld 100 miles by train just to pick up a rare Merlot color with only 8800 miles on it. Way better than the Chrysler even with 2 less cylinders! Put the 9-3 into Sport mode and get ready for some Gs. Real smooth ride with very little rattles. I have used the traction control to get out of many slippery situations. Combine it with Winter mode and you rarely get stuck. Purchased a 6 disc changer for the trunk on eBay at half the cost and had it dealer installed. Love to drive it topless!!

  • ESP works Great too. - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I live in Torontoand was worried when the lease ran out on my SUV in the middle of the worst winter in decades. After a white out at 60 mph I was a believer. The Alero in front of me went spinning out of control. My car broke loose as well but as soon as I turned the wheel to correct it the electronic braking started. Before I knew what was happening the car was straight. The others were in a scattered mess all over the road and I just drove around them. The engineers at Saab got it right, I think I would have been on another car or in the ditch on the roof if I was in the SUV. Made my day. :-)

  • brand new. - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    great details. only question is reliability. drives like a dream.

  • Fun Driving Experience - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I purchased my Saab used about 6 months ago. Style is to each his own, but I love the appearance and the feel of owning this car. It has way too many safety and other features to list, but most are very useful. The real winner for me is the joy I get when I drive. The car makes me feel very stable and comfortable. I feel in control. It has what I like to call smooth power. It handles well, and it is just a pleasure to drive. The six speed manual is way fun as well. I had one problem with the drivers window, fixed under waranty. I also have an oil leak which will be looked at tomorrow.

  • Best 4 seater convertible in its class - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Great interior with lots of features. Comfortable seats, rear seating with room for 2 adults. Lots of power when turbo kicks in. Great exterior styling, not your average european / German car.

  • beautiful - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    i love my new black saab. make sure though, that you get a few things. otherwise, it will just be a simple car. you must get the touring package. save up if you need to, because it makes a huge difference. the dual auto ac is very stylish. also, definitely get at least the 16, if not 17 inch wheels. this car is fantastic. people actually enjoy my saab, and are surpised to be. they have finally made a car that is more for the classy (not quirky) driver. i love the speed for the 4 cylinder its got.

  • Very Nice, Not Perfect - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    After 5 months Ive come to enjoy this quirky ride. Get the ARC / VEC now that you can. Excellent value, great range (forget about getting more than 30 MPG if you drive with zest) The 9-3 is all about handling and the left lane, so good be be careful about going 80 MPH without realizing it. As advertised, much more torque for passing than taking off. Huge performance difference between auto and auto-stick! Most of the 100s of bells and whistles are a waste of electrons - 1/2 of the functions wont work in the US.

  • First Saab - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I have had more comments on this car than any other car I have owned in my life. People like the cosmic blue color and the favorable comments have ranged from 17 year olds to a 55 year old driving a new Lexus. Extremely comfortable and well designed interior.

  • Great new platform - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    The new 9-3 is a great car. Far superior to the rest of the European competition.

  • First time buyer of SAAB - 2003 Saab 9-3
    By -

    We traded in a Nissan Maxima for a 2003 Saab Linear, options: Auto Trans, 16" wheels, metallic paint, & heated seats. Its no where as fast as the Maxima but overall my family and I like the 9-3. The seats are very comfortable, the steering is responsive, and the 9-3 just seems to be put together nicely. The 9-3 moves preety good for a turbo four cylinder engine.

Saab 9-3 Reviews By Year:
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