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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  Understated and underappreciated fun car - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By SH - December 23 - 8:30 am

  We started with every foreign-built sedan under $30K and test-drove nearly all 13 on our short-list. Wanted something more unique than what we see all over the roads. My wife and I left the 9-3 test drive with the first smiles on our faces. A refined ride as the TSX with added turbo boost and comfortable seats. Just had my first service - at 10,000 miles - and love everything about the car.

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  Terrible Car - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Chad Schwartz - December 22 - 12:13 am

  We purchased our 9-3 from a private seller with about a year and 11,000 miles left on the factory warranty. We quickly began to get use of the factory warranty and have already gotten nearly $2,000 of use off an extended warranty we purchased. This is, by far, the most un-reliable car I have ever owned. The electronics don’t reliably work (Saab consistently updates the program which amounts to a patch before the next issue), the CDs get stuck in the changer, there are countless rattles/squeaks, broken plastic junk on the interior, failed A/C Comp., failed alternator and now the check engine light is on. The small 4 cylinder lacks torque and the car handles (bad) much like a family sedan.

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  New to Me - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By tiki saab - December 19 - 8:03 am

  I am a week and a half into owning this car. I bought it in spite of it being a rental for its first year, 10,000 miles per Carfax. I am happy with the purchase, 117k on the car. Mostly in good to above average condition. I had it checked out by an independent shop and it received a clean bill of health. Had an oil change, will run synthetic of course. I am planning on a tune and complete fluid replacement @ the next oil change interval. A lot of juice when I hit the gas, I am well above the posted limit before realizing it.

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  Repairs on high mileage 99 9-3 - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By nhundt - December 9 - 2:36 am

  Regretfully gave up my 99 9-3 today. After 136K miles it was costing a fortune in repairs & replacements: fuel pump ($700), electronic ignition computer ($700), air vent selector switch broke nearly 1/2 doz. times. Now the engine gaskets are leaking coolant into the crankcase, front struts need replacing, and soon it will need a new clutch. Some items (e.g. clutch) are expected but other repairs were an expensive annoyance compared to 84 Celica which this car replaced. With my 9-3s book value next to nothing, chose to avoid throwing more $ at this car; I purchased an 08 Civic EX-L instead. Conclusion: Saabs will see hi miles only if you spend big bucks to keep em going.

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  77000 Miles and No Problems - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By RogKel - December 6 - 10:23 am

  Still a quiet, smooth ride. 2.0t has more than adequate power. Summer mileage 26 to 28 mpg on regular; winter mileage 23 to 25 in NH. No mechanical or electrical problems other than H7 low beam bulbs have a 4-6 month life expectancy. Exterior and interior have held up well. Highly recommend.

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  Very reliable with great gas mileage - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Sam - December 2 - 12:30 am

  I have had to drive a lot more the last four months with a job change, so I am now putting a lot more mileage on my Saab than I did initially. Only have 26,000 miles but expect to have 36,000 by next May when the car turns three. So far, it has been trouble free except for the decal coming off the hood once which was fixed under warranty. Otherwise, this car gets great gas mileage (29-36 on highway, 18-24 in city - beating EPA estimates of 19 and 29), is completely reliable, and has the acceleration of a new V6 Honda Accord with about 10 mpg better. No smoking engines, no batteries, no rotors - none of the problems others report. I guess I live a charmed life.

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  Surprising - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By JGC - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I have owned three convertibles but this one is the best by far. I was not in the market for a Saab, I was looking at BMW and MB and Chrylser. The BMWs styling was old and the tops come with plastic windows. The MB CLK was nice but too pricey. I test drove the Saab and loved it. It is the quickest off the line and the top is great. The car has no rattles and wind noise is nonexistent. I drove the Volvo C70 to compare and it was slower, handled less well, rattled and was noisey with the top up. The back seats are useful, unlike any other car I considered. It is a great luxury sports car and the price is reasonable.

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  Safe, reliable, comfortable SAAB - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By kidlatAzul - November 25 - 8:03 am

  I purchased a 2005 SAAB 9-3 because I wanted the safest vehicle I could afford. In 2005, the 9-3 was one of only a few vehicles on the IIHS top safety pick list. Fortunately, to date I have not had to test the 9-3s many safety features, but feel reassured driving this car. But in addition to being safe, the 9-3 has anchor-like brakes, handles great, is comfortable for all-day cruising, has ample acceleration, and gets up to 37 mpg on highway. Even around town, Ive never gotten less than 26 mpg (manual tranny helps). Only problems after 3 years & 56,000 miles have been headlight bulbs burning out twice, each time covered by warranty. The nicest car Ive ever owned.

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  Wonderful car - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By JL - November 25 - 12:36 am

  This is a lovely car to drive. The performance, ride, handling, versatility, and comfort are all top notch. I have the automatic transmission which is the best I have ever driven. Fuel economy is very good for the power and size of the car. The radio is a bit confusing and has way more features than I need. It can be extensively customized but it takes a lot of patience and help from the manual to figure it all out. The front seats are very comfortable, the rear seat is also nice, but a little too low for tall people. The hatch takes tons of cargo, the look of the car is lovely. Especially with the incentives Saab offers, this care is an incredible value!

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  GREAT CAR - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By SAAB OWNER - November 24 - 12:06 am

  I got this car about 2 weeks ago, and its great. The Saab is very affordable considering all the standard options that are equipped standard. Its fun to drive and very nimble which surprised me being that it has only a 2 liter engine. The European styling cues make it interesting and unlike any other car on the road. Also, the Pirelli tires that come standard are an excellent feature meshing well with the cars responsive rack and pinion steareing system. Great car yet would like to see more contoured seats particularly in the lower back area.