Overview & Reviews

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.

• Handles well for a front-drive car, frugal yet powerful engines, generous passenger room, class-leading trunk space.

• Suspension should be stiffer on Aero models, ride can be harsh over bumps, interiors lack upscale look and feel, weak stereos.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 125.00

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  Great car - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By GJP - November 28 - 10:36 am

  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.

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  Gorgeous but unreliable - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By befar - November 20 - 9:06 am

  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.

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  Fast and Fun - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By BBSSaab05 - August 31 - 5:23 am

  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.

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  Amazing Value - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By CARtx478 - June 15 - 11:50 am

  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.

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  disappointed in build quality & service - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By notsofast - October 13 - 12:20 pm

  Took delivery 11/29/04 - after having the car for 26 days it had to spend 11 days at the dealer for repairs (steering wheel lock). The acceleration is very slow for surface street driving and hesitates badly. Service also a disappointment. Car has been in three times to get reprogramming offered by Saab completed.

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  Just a Nice Car - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By Bob - February 26 - 3:23 pm

  My 9-3 has been very reliable with the only problem a couple of burned out headlight bulbs. The car is quick, quiet, comfortable, safe, nioe looking and extremely fuel efficient. My complaint is the handling. This is NOT the sport sedan Saab makes it out to be. The steering is too light, the suspension is too soft, the car leans excessively in turns and loses traction over any road irregularities. There is plenty of torque steer as well. "Born from Jets", I dont think so.

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  Very Expensive after Warranty - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By Robert - November 13 - 12:00 am

  The car has been a great driving machine. Thats the good. The bad... right off the start, the car was in the shop numerous times for electrical issues. The sunroof would not close properly, the windows would not go up, and other misc. electrical issues. At least they were covered by warranty. Now, out of warranty, I have the car in the shop at this very moment for the belt and tensioner to be replaced, the solenoid, the filter, and to check the coolent system. $1200. Now they just called me and said that the radiator needs replacement at a cost of $1100. The car has been disappointing in the repairs area. I have also had to have the brakes and rotors replaced at 40,000 miles.

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  Saab 9.3 - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By wgstatenj - June 21 - 4:30 pm

  Leased Vehicle after top scores regarding safety scores. Handling and comfort will not dissappoint any driver. Turbo lag although is evident and needs to be addressed. This is a common complaint. Interior design of arm rest, use of power door locks are annoying. Cell phone options on steering wheel are not functional as Saab offers no phone accessaries.? Driven for 12k, glad to have stability control and safety features. Turbo lag is major issue and if not addressed in future model I would not lease/purchase another.

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  I love this car!! - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By Chris Wright - March 25 - 9:50 pm

  This car is spunky and fun to drive. The gas mileage is exceptional on the highway...I get about 32 regularly. I test drove the BMW 325i, and I liked this car much better...hands down.

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  9-3 Turbo...dare to compare! - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By Chaz - March 2 - 3:46 pm

  I test drove all of the European imports in this class, and the Saab 9- 3 offers perky performance, nice handling, and great gas mileage. If you drive a lot, the manual seeting with multiple adjustments is better than any electric seating system I have had in the past. The factory sound system leaves a lot to be desired. The on-board computer systems are functional and informational without being intrusive. Plenty of rear seat room for adults as well as children without having to "move the seats up" for rear passengers. Dollar for dollar, a great performer and great investment!