Overview & Reviews

With so many entry-level luxury car choices from Germany, Japan and America, it's easy to overlook the Swedish Saab 9-3. Once upon a time, it was a great match for buyers looking for a spacious, safe and comfortable automobile with a proven safety record and a distinctly modern attitude. Actually, for used buyers, that's still the case, but new car shoppers looking for an entry-level luxury sedan will find the 9-3 now noticeably behind the times.

Though the unique and practical 9-3 hatchbacks were discontinued after the 2002 model year, the 9-3 family continues to be offered in multiple body styles: a four-door sedan, two-door convertible and four-door wagon, the latter called SportCombi. All utilize a small-displacement turbocharged engine that extracts decent power while salvaging respectable fuel economy.

Among the Saab 9-3's chief shortcomings are its lone, underwhelming engine choice, comparatively cut-rate interior quality, somewhat cramped cabin and an aging design that's lacking many increasingly common features. So, it's easy to overlook the 9-3 for a new-vehicle purchase, and that's probably not a bad thing.

Current Saab 9-3
Today's Saab 9-3 is sold in three body styles: sedan, SportCombi wagon and convertible. Each is broken into 2.0T and Aero trim levels, while the SportCombi is available in an additional all-wheel-drive trim known as 9-3X. Sedan and SportCombi models feel spacious, with low floors, upright windows and seating for five, though three in the rear seat can be tight. Legroom in particular is a sore spot. Convertible models have a rear seat for two adults of small-to-average size. Cargo room in all models is generous.

All 9-3s are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder that produces 210 horsepower. Front-wheel-drive 2.0T models come standard with a six-speed manual and are optional with a five-speed automatic. This is standard on the front-drive Aero. A six-speed automatic is standard on all-wheel-drive models, but any 9-3 with a standard automatic can be equipped with a no-cost optional manual.

The 9-3X gets an elevated ride height, an electronic limited-slip differential and different exterior and interior trim to make it a more all-terrain-suitable wagon. The front-wheel-drive Aero features a sport-tuned suspension, while the Aero XWD (sedan only) gets a limited-slip differential and a self-leveling suspension.

Inside, dramatic two-tone color schemes with lots of matte-black finishes create an intense, distinctly Scandinavian ambience -- though its look and materials are not as upscale as competitor luxury cars or even some run-of-the-mill family sedans. Longstanding Saab-isms remain, including a floor-mounted ignition switch and a "Night Panel" button that darkens all non-essential dashboard lights to reduce eye fatigue. However, the climate and audio controls are now generic, ergonomically friendly GM units.

Editorial reviews have praised the Saab 9-3 as one of the better-handling front-wheel-drive cars on the market, while taking note of its comfortable front seats and cavernous cargo areas, even in the convertible. The Aero in particular, although expensive, has a lightweight, agile feel missing from many of its competitors. Its low-powered engine, though, gives it a distinct disadvantage in a class where 300 hp is a common output. While the 9-3 isn't a bad car, you can definitely do better nowadays.

Used Saab 9-3 Models
Shoppers interested in a used Saab 9-3 should note that the vehicle has changed some since its introduction for 2003. Originally, the vehicle was available in three trim levels. The base Linear and more luxurious Arc shared a turbocharged 175-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and nearly identical styling. The Vector wore sportier clothes, rode lower and offered a 210-hp version of the same engine, which was also optional on the Arc. The 9-3 Convertible appeared for 2004, followed by the SportCombi wagon for 2006. Vector models were renamed Aero for 2005.

For 2006, the base Linear trim level and its weak motor were dropped, while the Arc was renamed 2.0T and gained the 210-hp engine as standard. The Aero received the 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 that year good for 280 hp. Six-speed manual and automatic transmissions were available. All 9-3s got an interior freshening for '07, including less bizarre, GM-sourced climate and audio controls. The all-wheel-drive Aero sedan and wagon arrived for 2008, along with the limited (for-2008-only) "Turbo X" edition. It featured 18-inch wheels, black paint, a lowered and firmer suspension, self-leveling rear shock absorber, larger brakes, black leather seats and faux carbon-fiber interior trim.

For 2009 only, the 9-3 lineup was expanded to include a dizzying number of trim levels for the various body styles and engines. They were gone the following year when the 9-3X was introduced and the Aero's turbo V6 was unfortunately dropped from the lineup. The current transmission availability dawned at this time as well.

The original Saab 9-3 debuted in 1999. Less a new model than a new name, the 9-3 took over for its Saab 900 predecessor and featured a mildly upgraded interior and revised chassis turning. Other than that, this 9-3 was pretty much the same as the 1994-'98 years of the 900. It was available in three body styles: a two-door hatchback, a four-door hatchback and a convertible.

The first-generation 9-3 is considered one of the last true Saabs. Designed before General Motors took over Saab in 2000, the 9-3 possessed all the eccentricities and quirks that Saab-o-philes consider sacred: temperamental keyholes in the floor, rounded, jet-fighter-like wraparound windshields and bustle-back styling on the hatchbacks.

Early 9-3s were offered with lively turbocharged four-cylinder engines. In 1999, base models produced 185 hp, while next up the ladder were the SE models with 205 hp and 9-3 Viggen models with 230. By 2002, base models were dropped, leaving the SE as the entry-level 9-3.

The most extroverted of the original 9-3s was the convertible. One of the first convertibles to offer a completely one-touch power top, as well as the ability to open and close all four windows with one button, the Saab 9-3 convertible also boasted one of the largest trunks in its class and a generous amount of side glass for good outward vision.

First-generation 9-3s generally provide a decent amount of feature content and safety. Their body structures are built to last, but due to spotty assembly quality, their interiors may not be. Editors at the time couldn't overlook the original 9-3's numerous shortcomings, but nonetheless were smitten by the 9-3's charm and dare-to-be-different packaging. As long as a broken-in 9-3 isn't a broken 9-3, it could be a compelling used car option -- just be prepared for the generally high maintenance and repair costs that come with owning a European import.

User Reviews:

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  Frequent Car Buyer - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By Frequent buyer - December 16 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car for my wife replacing a 4 years old BMW 328i. We feel we have lost 10% in peformance and gained 35% in styling and pleasure. The Viggen convertable is a fun car that can well please both my wife and myself. Also drove a 9-3 converatble (not Viggen). There is a world of difference. I would not have traded my BMW for a regular 9-3.

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  Objective 2003 Saab convertible review. - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By geek - December 10 - 8:03 pm

  Quiet (yes a convertible) solid feel, comfortable seats, highly responsive engine, reasonable few blind spots, good MPG. Some odd features but not annoying and something Saab is noted for. The torque steer nonsense you read about is something that average drivers will never notice or care about. This is nice riding and driving car, that was a great purchase. It has all the options that you would expect in a car that sold and sells in this price range. The higher than normal depreciation means you can buy an expensive car for less. The cost of repair is not out of line with any high end car. BTW the trunk is functional for trips, the back seats go down to extend the storage.

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  DONT BUY a 2003 9-3! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Saab Owner - December 7 - 10:00 am

  In 14 months, I brought my car in for major repairs 18 times! Ended up having to sue Saab before they honored the lemon law levels. I love Saab, but I will never own one again after this experience!

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  Everything seems GREAT to me! - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Theo - December 6 - 4:33 am

  Not certain about some critical reviews here but Ive had no problems so far and am having a great time driving this vehicle. Plenty of headroom (63"), which was one of the main selling points for me - had trouble with just about any other car/vehicle (even my brother in laws Escalade). This vehicle has superb ergonomics and comfort with handling and performance that does not disappoint. I was cross shopping against an Audi A3 but honestly, there is no comparison (other than the Audis superior DSG transmission - would have loved one of those in this car). I wouldnt hesitate to recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a great handling, powerful and good looking "wagon".

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  I thought there was snow in Sweden - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By HeatherVT - December 2 - 7:03 am

  Although the 9-3 wagon is sporty and comfortable, the snow performance leaves much to be desired. The ground clearance is so low even a dusting of snow made driving treacherous (despite studded snow tires). The front wheel drive did little to propel the car through the mountainous roads in Vermont, leaving me stranded in driveways and scared on the highway. The seats are comfortable but close together, allowing my toddler to kick my elbow while driving. The trunk is small, not able to accomodate a bike trailer. Although the seats are comfortable they are very close together so my toddler can kick my elbow as I drive. The trunk was too small to accommodate a bike trailer.

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  Euro Delivery Experience with Sportcombi - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By Nordic Boy - December 1 - 4:36 pm

  I highly recommend Saabs International Delivery Program. After having worked with my local dealership, I researched and designed the car that I wanted. Saab then built my car, and I flew to Sweden to pick it up in Trollhatten. What a great adventure, with A+ service from Saab and its associates. A nice price savings plus generous travel allowance, hotel stay with wonderful dinner and breakfast. Then driving it in Sweden, Denmark, Germany (can you say Autobahn!), and The Netherlands. Cant wait to have it delivered here in 7-weeks. Great performance, fuel economy, looks, comfortable seats. Needs more rear seat leg room, spacious cargo area. Titan Grey Color is sweet! Thanks Saab!

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  9-3 60th Edition 6 spdFollow up review! - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By Donatas - December 1 - 12:50 am

  After 1 year of owning and driving this car,I can say I really love it!I cant wait to get behind the wheel. Sometimes me and my wife argue who will be driving it (I have 2000 9-5 as well). Pretty good gas mileage for 210 HP engine.I am averaging 32-34 mpg on highway (awesome) and 22 mpg purely in town (ok). So far no mechanical or any breakdowns at all. Couple minor rattles coming from plastic parts in the interior that leave something to be desirable in the interior quality is my only concern. Very fun car to drive, accelerates effortlessly. You dont have to reach the red line to get this car moving. I will see how it holds up in a future reliability wise, all SAAB haters you are wrong.

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  Well miss you when youre gone! - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By Lee - November 30 - 1:26 am

  The most important selling point for the 9-3 is its personality (i.e, quirkiness). The handling is very good on my new 9-3 SE with excellent steering and lots of power from the turbo 2.0 liter engine(although the secret is to click on the "sport" button which gives added power.) The 9-3 excels in terms of comfort as the Saab seats are outstanding and the controls are easy to see, reach and understand.

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  Beautiful Car - Poor Quality - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Donervogel - November 29 - 3:13 am

  Me and my partner purchased an 04 Linear back at the end of April. We thought we were buying a very reliable car. NOT. It has been to the dealership service about once or twice a month. 1) Bad transmission programing (happened on an 800 mile trip). 2) Trunk wouldnt close 3)Bad rattles/vibration in the doors 4)Skid control failed (another 500 mile trip) 5) DTE Failed 6) Key would not unlock computer. Could not start after transmission programming fixed ( 800 miles away from home) 7) Service engine soon came on and was a false read. If you dont mind going to the dealership every month, then this car is for you! Wont buy another one. Will buy German from now on.

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  Ive owned four Saabs... - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By rsg4 - November 28 - 2:03 am

  I purchased a used 2003 9-3 Saab a few years ago. This was my fourth Saab. It was still under warranty. This model is a far cry from the old Saab. I too, have had issues with lights, engine light on, heat/cooler blower...just to name a few. Even the 6 CD gave me issues. I had the CD into the local dealer several times -- of course, never acted up while at the dealer. Finally (200 miles out of warranty) it acted up -- and they were refusing to honor the warranty!! Gave me a price of $2000 to fix. I was on the phone quite a bit with Saab, when they finally agreed to fix it. Funny thing, the dealer only fixed $1100 of the $2000 -- said the other didnt need fixing!