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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  2003 Saab 9-3 Linear - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Perdition - October 12 - 10:00 am

  The turbo lag on this car is frustrating and dangerous. Initial boost takes a full second or more to engage making crossing a road with traffic impossible. After turbo boost, however, this car propels the car like a high end sports car. Get a manual transmission, not an automatic.

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  Great when not in the shop... - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By oomps - October 9 - 7:16 am

  I purchased this car on 07/18/06. Up to now (08/15/06), the car has been to the shop 4 times for a/c problems. This car has NOT been reliable and has turned me off from the brand. The few times Ive had it, it has been fun to drive. Its a great little luxury/sport sedan. It drives rather well and is fast once you are above 2000 rpm. Tire noise is audible. The 300 watt system needs improvement. Seats are great and all the controls are with in reach. Fuel economy has been pretty good with about 22-24 mpg.

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  You need to drive it. - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Frank - October 9 - 5:50 am

  As one who has owned many cars, the Saab 9-3 2.0t is by far the best car Ive owned. As stated the steering is so tight, I can almost make a turn with my knee. The acceleration for a 2L I4 is wonderful, as my first ticket would attest. The Getrag transmission is slick and smooth. I laugh as I see yet another Camry, Accord or Maxima as they are seen everywhere. This is unique, different and that makes it even more palatable. The front-end and rear-end style is dramatic without being off-the- charts. If you’re well over 6’ (I am 6’5”, you will fit nicely and that says a lot about their engineering. YOU need to drive one; its the only way to fully appreciate it.

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  Faabulous - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Bigun - October 6 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Saab. I was hesitant to lease a new car, but so far the experience has been great. The car gets lots of 2nd looks as it is not common. My dealership has been fantastic so far. Excellent pep & good milage from the 4 cyl turbo, the interior is completely new for 03 and takes some getting used to but is driver friendly.

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  Fun & isnt a "Break My Wallet" clone - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By willpower - October 5 - 1:20 am

  My SAAB 9-3 Aero is an exciting turbo- charged sport sedan I find appealing since I enjoy cars that are more unique & exciting than just one of a bland flurry of Euro-Japanese yuppie BMW-clones. The 9-3 Aero carries-forth the SAAB tradition of providing many unique but valued features that the others havent copied...yet...such as an instrument panel "Blackout" button, 4- wheel steering, an ignition lock between the front seats that also serves to lock both the break & gearshift levers, self-leveling xenon headlights and other subtle but cool features.

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  Saab safety - 2009 Saab 9-3
  By wendy cordrey - October 4 - 10:00 am

  Lucky for me I purchased my 2009 SAAB when they were clearing them out. I love it and I must say that it has kept me safe. It has definitely stopped me from getting into 2 accidents within a 1 month period. Today, I was hit in the rear end by a SUV and the car and I did very well. I expected the rear-end to be crushed when I got out of the car. It was minimally damaged and I was shocked. Very impressive! I will buy another Saab in the future because I cannot put a price on my families safety.

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  Swedish Solution - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By ernst - September 29 - 10:00 am

  this is the car for the 21st century blahs!..its exciting to drive because it hugs the road and wants to be driven! Its exciting to look at as it has its own unique styling unlike all the rest!..people take notice of it immediately ..they know quality when they see it!..with the top down you can be a kid again!..its all there and its made in Europe by persons who still care for design and quality and workmanship!..what more could you ask for?.....

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  Love my Saab! - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By Russw - September 29 - 10:00 am

  I could not be happier with this car! It fits all of my needs including golf clubs! The performance is outstanding... more than I need... and has great road handling ability! There is a little bit of tourque steer... but after about a week of driving... its not even noticable.

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  60th Anniversary--Great Car - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By grw - September 23 - 3:46 am

  Great pickup, comfortable seats and nice service plan. I commute about 50 highway miles a day and love the ride. The mileage is definitely better than listed. I moved from an AWD and was worried about winters but it chews up snow with no problem, even moving in close to a foot this past winter. The whole car just has a solid feel to it.

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  My last SAAB - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By jmklwck - September 21 - 10:33 am

  Purchased new - experience has been less than stellar with immediate recalls of front wheel axles. As the weather got colder the first winter (2 months after the purchase) the car would not immediately start. After repeated trips to the dealership the problem was resolved with an adjustement to the engine software. Multiple recalls on the vehicle - seat belts, gas cap, etc. I have had a constant check engine light issue which I was told was a secondary vacuum pump for the turbo ($600+) that I have chosen not to repair since it service tech stated it only affected mileage which I have seen no change.