2005 Saab 9-3 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
125 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A new in-dash DVD-based navigation system is added to the options list. The 9-3 convertible is now available in entry-level Linear trim.

Pros:
  • Handles well for a front-drive car, frugal yet powerful engines, generous passenger room, class-leading trunk space.
Cons:
  • Suspension should be stiffer on Aero models, ride can be harsh over bumps, interiors lack upscale look and feel, weak stereos.

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 110 of 125.00
  • sierra alpha alpha bravo (SAAB) - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Great handling - powerful when turbo kicks in and luxurious but practical. No gimmicks, just functional, solid and safe! 2005 is deeper and longer, so at 65" I was very pleased to find a convertible that provided me with plenty of head room and leg room, as well as a couple of rear seats so the kids can come along on the ride. A great family convertible!

  • Safe, reliable, comfortable SAAB - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I purchased a 2005 SAAB 9-3 because I wanted the safest vehicle I could afford. In 2005, the 9-3 was one of only a few vehicles on the IIHS top safety pick list. Fortunately, to date I have not had to test the 9-3s many safety features, but feel reassured driving this car. But in addition to being safe, the 9-3 has anchor-like brakes, handles great, is comfortable for all-day cruising, has ample acceleration, and gets up to 37 mpg on highway. Even around town, Ive never gotten less than 26 mpg (manual tranny helps). Only problems after 3 years & 56,000 miles have been headlight bulbs burning out twice, each time covered by warranty. The nicest car Ive ever owned.

  • Solid Design, Excellent Value - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    This is one great car! I like the engineering, the ride, the sound system, and the overall look of the car. The vehicle comes with a great set of standard safety and security features. The car is truly fun to drive. The car has been truly reliable.

  • Fun. Period. - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    This car is just plain European fun. It is not a BMW, it is not an Audi, it is not a Volvo - it is a Saab. Through good and bad, it is a Saab. The turbo is a trip - wait till the turbo spools - up to about 40 mph and then the car will simply take off and suddenly you will be doing 80 without even a blink. I LOVE the interior, very minimalist, very Swedish. The 9-3 is not for everyone. It does not drive as well as a 3-series. The interior is great, but most will like the A4 better. The woodgrain is not as nice as a Jaguar. But I still love my Saab. The rakish front end, the smooth lines, the cockpit interior. Take it for a drive, you will either love it - or youll buy a Beemer.

  • Couldnt be happier! - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    We purchased this car for our 16 year old son. He always wanted the SAAB convertible. Driving it is an amazing experience. You hate to reach your destination. Heads turn the entire time its on the road. We feel good about its high safety standards. We test drove ALL convertibles - this one is the best the others cannot compare.

  • My NEW Car - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Ive only had my Saab 93 Aero for a little over a month but so far...i love it..no problems and good to drive.

  • Little problems - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Sun roof stopped working.$2,500 to repair. A/C blower motor went out. Center caps of rims fill with brake dust and cant be cleaned. Rear logo came off from being washed. Passenger seat plastic trim has fallen off because of broken attachments-twice. Interior isnt at all durable. Buy a Toyota

  • Saab 9-3 - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    After years of Japanese cars I decided to go for something different, I am so glad I did. The handling is so much tigher and exact. I love the manual feature of my automatic transmission, it gives me more control and it feels as if there is much more power than there really is.

  • A Lear Jet without the wings. - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Just purchased this vehicle used with 75k miles. Previous owner had been meticulous with service records so I feel confident that this baby was pampered. I have barely added 100 miles to the odometer but I am already impressed. Having driven or owned nearly every kind of car in this category, the Saab stands out as the most fun to drive. Fantastic handling, the turbo responds to my every whim, and the air handling system is straight out of a Boeing 747. I have never driven a 4 cylinder that handles A/C quite like this. Despite having a 13 speaker sound system, I was underwhelmed by the stereo - I may have already blown a driver. I do,however, love the timeless quality of the exterior design.

  • Reason to smile! - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    This is the fifth Saab Ive either owned or leased, and its without a doubt the most enjoyable. My only complaint is its relatively pokey acceleration. Otherwise, its great fun, with a nice, controlled ride, strong brakes and all the creature comforts one would expect from a $43000 car. I considered a BMW 330iC as well, but found the local Saab dealership much more agreeable to work with.

Saab 9-3 Reviews By Year:
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