Overview & Reviews

All 2008 Saab 9-3s benefit from an exterior refresh. Notably, all body trim is monochromatic this year. A more significant development is the January 2008 arrival of an optional all-wheel-drive system for 9-3 Aero sedans and wagons. These AWD 9-3s get a more potent, 280-horsepower version of the turbocharged V6. In addition, Saab will offer a limited-edition version of the AWD sedan and wagon called the Turbo X. Only 600 will come to the U.S. and they'll be identifiable by their black exterior paint, 18-inch wheels, lowered suspension, larger brakes and unique interior trim. The Turbo X sedan gains a rear spoiler. Other updates for 2008 include a 5-hp bump for front-drive Aeros and minor changes to the standard and optional equipment lists.

• Quiet ride, accurate steering, responsive all-wheel-drive system, supportive front seats, available in three body styles.

• Subpar interior materials and build quality, too much body roll on Aero model, ride can be choppy over bumps.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 78.00

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  Love the Saab Sport Combi - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By DonRobinsonRealtor - September 10 - 7:03 am

  I flew up to Cape Cod the day after Christmas from Austin Texas to pick up my car. Left the next day in the rain and fog and drove back to Austin Texas. Drove 20 hours straight the first day I was having so much fun. Hit the Smokey Mountains about 3 in the morning, drove like a dream. I love the ergonomics and simplicity of the car. I am a driver and dont like too much power stuff. So far I am very happy with the car and think it is better than the write ups it gets. I agree with some of the criticism but still think it it much better value than many cars on the market especially if you buy certified used like I did.

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  Beautiful Car - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Rob Murray - September 6 - 7:43 am

  I purchased this Saab 9-3 the day before Saab was bought by Spyker. A Saab Sonnet was the first car I really appreciated when I was in High School and college and I always wanted one. When I thought they might be going out of business I thought it was now or never. Car is beautiful, quiet, quick, and solid compared to the 6cylinder mustang, camaro, and infiniti G20 I previously owned. Nice car.

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  Saab 9-3 > Acura TSX - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Dave - July 23 - 1:30 pm

  I was debating between the Saab 9-3 or Acura TSX. The Acura advanced in technology, but it seemed as if the car didnt have any soul, and it felt as if it was a Honda over an Accura. I bought the Saab with the stick shift, cold weather package, and the bi- xenon headlamps in silver with black leather. Build quality remains pleasing for the past couple of months I have owned it, reliability has been great, fit and finish can use some work, but suits my high standards. This car is worth looking at if you are looking at the Lexus IS and Acura TSX.

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  Great car - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Ron - May 10 - 9:23 pm

  We use this car as our "high mileage" car. This is our 2nd 9-3. This is a solid car, great design. The car is perfect both in town and on the freeway. Could not go for the four banger as it just has to work too hard. The Aero is still great on mileage and a great performer. Only turbo I have ever driven with no noticable turbo-lag. Incredible brakes.

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  (I thought) its what I wanted. - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By BV - May 3 - 11:00 am

  I dont mean to be a spoiler to all the positive reviews - this is a nice car. I guess the problem is I had my last Saab (89 900T) way too long. It was the newer (after 2003) body style that really attracted me - I think its a great looking car. However, Im not into the white & chrome tail lights that came in 2008. It drives very well, power comes on quickly, quietly and before you know it your over the speed limit. But the seats are too wide and I slide around in corners. Most dissapointing it that it seems to be more GM than a Saab. Flimsy cup holders and console lid. On a recent business trip, I noticed my Chevy Cobalt rental car has the exact same radio as my $25K Saab. Uhh!

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  Excellent Car - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Jim K - February 11 - 4:46 pm

  There isnt another wagon on the market with the Saab 9-3s combination of size, comfort, performance, economy, safety and value. I also do not understand why the automotive press continually under rates Saab vehicles. Nothing from Audi, Subaru, VW, Toyota, Honda, Acura compares - look at the specs - the 9-3 has more cargo capacity than anything within $15K of the price - assuming you want to drive a car and not a truck or truck like vehicle. Reliability has been excellent - have owned two 9-3s - gave older one to my son.

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  2008 Saab 9-3 Turbo X - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Saab Fan - June 16 - 8:23 pm

  Just purchased Turbo X sport sedan and really, really love this car. Only had it for a day, but what a blast. Handles like its on rails, power at the lower rpm, not like my previous 98 SE turbo. Very comfortable, but a bit harsh over rough roads. Love the exhaust note! Shifter a bit notchy, but Ive only had it for a day and will get used to it, Im sure. If you like Saabs and want a sports car with all weather capability as a bonus, there is no better car out there.

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  Great Car! - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By otto - June 4 - 1:56 pm

  I own a Saab 9-3 Aero XWD 6M. I have owned six BMWs. While BMWs handle more neutrally, the Saab makes more power for much less than a comparable BMW (328/335 xi). I would have to purchase a near fully loaded 335xi to get this much comfort, convenience, and performance at a cost of nearly $13k more. If you pay anywhere near sticker for these cars you are paying way too much. Wait for a GM year end sale. BMWs are priced nearer selling price. Still, I prefer the Saab regardless. BMWs I-drive, run flat tires, and depreciation (net loss) were the final straw with me. I want a car that is fun to drive up to 9/10th, and this Saab delivers. I do not plan on racing this Saab.

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  Compromise - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Bob K - June 3 - 12:40 pm

  Lets face it, if you are only buying one car it is a series of compromises to get what best suits your needs. Sure you would like to have a M3 when you feel sporty and a 350 E Class for your date on Saturday night. Although the Saab 9-3 might not rate best in class for any one category it does well in a lot of them. I have had mine for about a month and am delighted with it in every detail. It is a dream on the highway cruising at just over 2,000 rpm in 6th gear, rolling beautifully and extremely quiet. I had a Saturn Aura prior to the Saab and find it worlds more enjoyable. I recommend using 93 octane as I get 27.5 overall. Could do better if you use restraint with the turbo.

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  Saab Now, Save Greater - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By JCinDC - December 1 - 7:03 pm

  Grew up around the 70s New Englander Saabophiles vs the "Saab Now Cry Later" crowd...their battles on quirkiness and reliability vs individuality and snow- going were legendary. Never much favored a side nor desired to own one, as not a hatchback fan. But caught the redesigned 2008 2.0T on the beltway, and now have taken the plunge. Got a loaded model sans the better stereo and bigger wheels - couldnt get those options with immediate availabilty in the smokey beige color. Just broke 2500 miles of daily commuting and two long road trips. If not for some easily correctable annoyances and a little more zip off the line, this car could be a Best Buy and crush the competition at this price point.