Overview & Reviews

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.

• Sharp handling, frugal yet powerful engines, generous passenger room, class-leading trunk space, excellent audio systems.

• 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 31 through 40 of 375.00

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  2003 9-3 Linear - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Larry DeVivo - December 14 - 5:16 am

  As a life long Saab driver, I can only say I am extremely disappointed in this vehicle. I have been in the repair shop 18 times over 3 years and have not been satisfied that any resolution is in sight with newer models. On a positive note, the handling is fun & what you would expect from Saab. The fuel economy has been good. If not for the repeatedly ridiculous problems from a supposed new car, I would not be writing such a harsh review. I am actually looking at buying a different vehicle for the first time in my life... one that does not need the constant work this car has needed. If I wasnt replacing the wiper motor this week ( 2nd time), I could go shopping!

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  2003 Saab 9-3 Convertible - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By SMann - October 23 - 10:00 am

  Great car for most local driving and when you want to go out for a "fun" drive. The lack of a center arm rest makes it uncomfortable on a long haul.

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  hard to knock it - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Robjc123 - October 18 - 5:43 pm

  I have had this car almost 2 years. I wondered if I should have gotten an Audi instead HOWEVER after I saw the crash test rating I was in love again with the SAAB. It does what is does well. Drive is nice, handling fun and technically I cant complain. Not one thing wrong aside from some pinch protection issues I had to keep going back for in the windows. I may get an Audi someday but for now I find it hard to knock this SAAB and I DO enjoy it.

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  Last Saab Ill buy - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Avi8jazz - July 8 - 10:00 am

  Pros: 6 Speed manual gives us 37 mpg on hwy at 75 mph. Trunk is a LOT bigger than it looks from the outside. Fun to drive. Cons: Replacing left headlight takes practice (dealer charges $90). Windows regulator is defective(bad design) $450/window. SAI Check valve $180 needs a biannual check. If it fails, condensation floods the SAI Pump $600 (current issue). Check Eng. light only goes out when the bulb burns out. No AUX input for iPod connectivity (had to buy a third party $75).

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  2003 Saab Linear - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By oddeath - June 8 - 10:00 am

  175 HP turbo Saab Linear is a decently powered, excellent handling vehicle with a lot of room, even for a relatively big person (61" 205lbs). Good ergonomics and back seat room.

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  Watch Out - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By vmn - May 27 - 5:43 pm

  The car is unbelievably fun to drive. Unfortunately it has been at the dealership numerous number of times in the first year. 10 times for at least 2 days at a time. Parking brake, infotainment, and 2 transmissions are only the begining. Transmission still not fixed. worse 6-speed i have ever driven. Grinds going into 2nd and 3rd gear. I cant keep taking the car to the dealer everytime i have a problem. Saab still working to fix my transmission problem. It start at 3000 miles. I wonder why the new 2005 saab 93 has a 5-speed in it?

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  2003 Linear - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Mike Schurr - March 10 - 10:00 am

  I have owned every car imaginable from BMWs to VWs and have never before owned a Saab. I was drawn to the cars looks and ammenities. The overall performance is better than expected from a 175 hp turbo 4 cyl and handling is excellent for a front driver. I really enjoy the car and suggest that anyone looking for a sport sedar consider this car. I recently attended the Saab sponsored Proving Ground where the 9-3 is pitted against, a BMW 325, M-B C230, Audi A-4, and a Volvo S70. After driving the Linear, Arc and Vector as well as a 9-2 convertible I was impressed at how well it stood up to the other vehicles.

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  Saab 9-3 in Atlanta - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By b6542 - February 15 - 10:00 am

  This car has met or exceded all expectations. I definitely would recommend the manual shift over the auto. Great Milage !

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  9-3 Linear: Fun and Practical - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By GolferJim - January 31 - 2:00 am

  My first Saab; Im very pleased so far. The 175hp turbo and automatic are very flexible. Gas mileage (27+ mpg) has been better than I had hoped for with the Auto. Handling is xlnt; not M3 great, but better than the Acura TL we had. Some of the SID functions are awkward, but most controls are good. The 150wt stereo needs help, 6-CD changer is good. I have gotten a number of "thumbs up" from people looking at the car for the first time. Its sharp in silver. The exterior fit and finish are as good as any. The interior materials look good, but not quite A4-good. The heated seats are very comfortable. I also consideded an Audi A4 and Mazda 6s.

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  First time Saab owner - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By theaba - January 26 - 10:00 am

  Test-drove and eventually leased this car because of GM financing and its standard safety features. The car is a blast to drive. It is a great value if you stay at the base level. It is relatively light weight. So, it really handles very well and the acceleration is quite adequate. The interior is very well done with leather seats. The five speed auto trans is very smooth and responsive. The car looks beautiful to me! After 900 miles, a warning appeared about auto transmission. It was a false alarm probably caused by a bad sensor signal. The second and current problem is related to the malfunctioning of OnStar.