Overview & Reviews

For 2004, the 9-3 convertible has been given the same full makeover the sedan received last year. The convertible is available in Arc and Aero models and equipped only with the 210-horsepower engine. The highline Vector sedan has been renamed the Aero, and the midlevel Arc sedan now comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission, rather than a six-speed. Bi-xenon headlights are a stand-alone extra on all 9-3s, while rear parking assist is now available as a non-package option on the sedan. The Sport Wheel Package for the Linear and Arc now includes a tire-pressure monitor.

• Balanced ride and handling characteristics, frugal yet powerful engines, generous passenger room, class-leading trunk space.

• Some turbo lag at lower speeds, interior lacks upscale look, not as vaultlike as some of its European competitors, front-wheel drive a disadvantage against rear-wheel-drive competitors for performance fans.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 100 of 223.00

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  The truth about under rated vehicle - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By NNovesky - December 2 - 10:00 am

  This is a fine car, exceeding expectations in all areas. One small issue is the turbo lag in lower gears only accentuated by the dramatic pickup found as you proceed into 3d, 4th, 5th and 6th gears. Thats right, 6th gear. The 6th gear is a very nice addition for highway driving. Unfortunately 80-90 mph feels like 60mph!! Handling is outstanding and, for my purposes (some moderate distance highways driving, country roads in rural NE and pleasure trips) better than G35 and similar cars. A+ vehicle.

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  Fun Fun Fun - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By fast fredi - November 21 - 10:00 am

  Fun, Fun, Fun. This Saab is much more elegant. The 88 Saab design was far ahead of any other car that was on the road at the time. Saab again has developed a car far beyond anything else on the road. This time they improved the ride, much smoother, very little turbo lag, and good fuel economy. The top comes down with the touch of one button. But there is always a draw back to Saab, If you are going on a long trip, take another car or dont take any clothes with you. Trunk space is a big factor if you travel alot. If the top is down, You can put a pack of gum and a pair of shoes. but all in all UI love my new SAAB.

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  Saabs Back! - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Greg Waldron - October 19 - 2:00 am

  A very quick and responsive car - great fun to drive. Drives more like an Audi or BMW than a Saab - its completely lost that old "rubbery, tippy" sensation. Feels a bit "tinny" compared to the Germans, though. Perhaps this is a result of being built on GMs new "world car" platform. The engine is pure Saab Turbo - a great motor! Saab are closing the performance sedan gap with the Germans - they are closing in on best-in-class with this model and with the current price differential against the the Audi A4 3.0 and BMW 330 its a good value.

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  Beemers are as common as mosquitos!!!! - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Get the SAAB!!!! - September 1 - 10:00 am

  Driving the Saab for 1 month now and couldnt say a bad thing about it. Gas mileage is better then expected. With todays gas prices, this was very important to me. Good power and great gas mileage. Classy car with lots of standard features which you will pay extra for in competitors. Ex.. Leather, ABS, Stability + Traction Control.

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  Jet Performance - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Mark Bear - July 23 - 12:06 pm

  New owners of this vehicle will find themselves feeling as though they are in the cockpit of an airplane. One step on the pedal will then convince them as they find the car responding to twists and turns in reponsive fashion. The well appointed amenities inside the car remind the driver that all of his or her hard work has finally paid off. The Saab 9-3 is truly a symbol of status with its elegant curves and pampering aesthetics. Drivers finding themselves in situations requiring speed and response will have no regrets that they have purchased the car of their dreams. General Motors has built a car that allows drivers to feel as though they were flying without ever leaving the ground.

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  I Love This Car!!! - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Lisa P. - July 15 - 10:00 am

  Having owned several convertibles in my past, I was eager to step up to more luxurious appointments and amenities with my latest purchase. I was definitely in awe once I test drove (and eventually bought) the new Saab 9-3 Convertible. Besides gorgeous styling and numerous features (the dual leather interior, heated seats, and 13-speaker stereo system are among my favorites), the powerful performance of the Turbo engine makes it a force to be reckoned with! I have yet to meet a car at the intersection that can accelerate quicker than my new Saab! The smooth ride and tight handling are also superb! Id definitely recommend it to others.

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  Saab 9-3 - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By kumar383 - June 12 - 2:00 am

  When I went to the dealership, I was not prepared for what was in store. Just like the commercial states "Those who test drive a SAAB usually buy one." Well, I bought it that night on my first test drive. Handling, performance, comfort & styling... all came together to create a winner.

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  Went in for a BMW - Drove home a SAAB - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By BryanM - June 8 - 10:00 am

  I NEVER even considered buying a SAAB!! I went to the dealership looking to buy a BMW. One test drive later and I was was signing papers. Was impressed with the new design. When I drive the family around, I feel safe knowing all the safety features that SAAB puts together. The car just begs to be driven. Step on the pedal and go! A real head turner both on the road or parked next to curb. The only time the car has seen a mechanic was for the 30 day service. I cant say enough about it, THANK YOU BMW!!!!!

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  Best car ever - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By soggy - May 29 - 8:00 pm

  the only downside of this car is that theres no AWD, which will hopefully be out in 2008. Other than that, Im in love!

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  Great car - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By jay0725 - April 30 - 4:33 pm

  Ive had my Saab 9-3 about 2 1/2 years now. In that time Ive put over 60k miles on it. Maintenance is very important with these cars to keep them from giving you problems. I religiously change my oil every 7500 miles with ONLY mobile 1 full synthetic. Also keeping up with the other maintenance has proved worth while. The dealers charge a lot but its better than having a broken down car. I average 33mpg between all driving. It has the original clutch at 80k, still shifts and drives like new. Brake dust is out of control but brakes have lasted about 45k miles and still over half left. I had one major issue with engine block at 45k. It was under warranty and I got a free loaner.