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 21 through 30 of 125.00
  • Why did I wait so long to buy it? - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    After owning 4 Saturns in the past 13 years I switched brands and bought a 2005 Saab 9-3 Arc. The sales transaction was as stress-free as any of the Saturn transactions and the final price was better than I had expected. The Saab is a beauty to look at and a hoot to drive. I thought that my 2003 L300 handled well, but not compared to the 9-3. It is quick, agile and smooth. I have a 15 mile daily commute through the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the 9-3 accelerates freely and handles the curves with no discernible body lean. I can point the car into fast sweepers early and it powers through with very little understeering. My only question is, "Why did I wait so long to buy it?"

  • Great car - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Very nice clean interior. Runs very well on the highway. If you drive in a lot in traffic, get the auto. It also has great a/c. The more options you get, the more confusing the driver controls become but for 07 they have simplified everything with a new dash and radio. The car gets better mpg than its rated mpg on the highway. Great all around car.

  • Gorgeous but unreliable - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Let me start with the good. The car is fabulous to drive. I have owned Mercedes, Lexus, Honda, and older Saabs in the past and this is by far the most fun car to drive. It is also more comfortable then most of my friends (they drive BMWs, Mercedes, and Lexus). Now for the bad, I have had the car less than four months and it is going in for warranty work the SEVENTH time this week. The total days spent in the shop for various build problems is over 24. Weather stripping, windows off tracks, A/C issues and leather cracks are just the beginning of the list. I have 6000 miles on it and can tell you this car only is good if it is not your only source of transportation.

  • Saab 9-3 Convertible - the Freedom Machi - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Finally theres a car that reflects how I feel, free, in for a challenge, OUT THERE and totally comfortable when I just feel like taking a ride home in the sunset. With a cup of coffee in the cup holder, and some jazz on the high powered stereo, I call it a mix between a vehicle and a Peets Coffee coffee shop. Brilliant - again!

  • SAAB!!! - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Let me start by saying that I also drive a BMW X5. Ive had the car for 3 days, I am thrilled with the Saab 93 Aero!! This car looks great, feels great and it is fast! Why doesnt anyone talk about that? I even like the fact that I dont get that much attention, like I do in the X5. Still this car is beautiful. I love the details in the care. Did you see the in dash cupholder? The seats? The wheels? I drove others, like the BMW 3 series, Acura TL. The Saab just has character. Just test drive it, feel that turbo kick in. Right now when I drive around, I notice that I dont see other Saab 93 Aero in Nocture Blue and you know what? I LOVE THAT!!

  • Nicest Car Ive Ever Had Thus Far! - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Ergonomically, I feel like somehow Saab snuck into my room at night and took a mold of my body and built the new 9.3 to fit me. Its just amazing. Its solid, comfortable and a blast to drive. The overall quality is evidenced in just about every way. Ive had 9000s in the past and wasnt sure Id like this. Well... I dont like it; I love it!

  • Starting to regret my lease... - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I just recently leased the first 05 Arc my Saab dealer received. The lease expires in a year by the way. While the car looks nice and drives nice, the interior leaves something to be desired. The night panel function is lovely but theres too many buttons and cheap plastic everywhere! Im also not impressed with the build quality. The doors have a junky, tinny feel to them.

  • Fast and Fun - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    This is a fun car to drive. Great handling, smooth ride, good acceleration - especially compared to other cars with similar pricing and/or power ratings. The exterior is beautiful and the interior contemporary Swedish minimalist. I have had two minor issues with reliability in 12,000 miles - both electrical. My wifes 4 yr. old Saab has had minor electrical problems and the seemingly common problem of failed throttle body. Dealer service has been beyond expectation including warranteed repairs after the warranty expired. That and the driving experience more than make up for any problems weve had.

  • Bare bones facts. - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    This vehicle is awesome ! I test drove the "big three", re: Audi-4, BMW 325CI and the AERO. The AUDI and BMW have the performance issues you may be looking for, but they lack the comfort and driving ease of the SAAB AERO. The SAAB AERO driver seat is much more roomy than the other two, so if your a big man, re: 6 feet or above then your knee will be bruised in the AUDI or BMW. This car is really the only choice for comfort and style. I recommend you test drive all three on the same day to really get a feel for what I am saying.

  • Amazing Value - 2005 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I bought my first Saab two weeks ago and couldnt be more impressed with a car in this price range. After a year-long search I found a low mileage black Aero model with a parchment interior. Its quick (especially at highway speeds) and has a firm, but comfortable ride quality. I absolutely love the 9-3s styling and relative anonymity on the road.

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