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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  Not for everyone. But for me heck yeah! - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By fl81turbozx - October 27 - 6:06 pm

  1st, let me say, I’m a car guy tried and true. My first love is a z, but this Saab is a blast! I bought the car as a commuter, good gas mileage, convertible, had no idea I was getting a well refined sports machine. I see mixed reviews, and I think saabs get a bad rap from people who dont understand what they are buying. If you don’t know how to take care of a turbo car, don’t buy one. If you want to compromise on maintenance (or if the previous owner did), dont buy one. If you are not enthusiastic about cars in general, buy something else. This car is an enthusiasts car. Its a blast to drive, good gas mileage is a bonus. Im am pleasantly surprised by the 28+mpg.

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  A Sweet Auto - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By rnz - October 24 - 10:00 am

  This is a car for people who want some individuality rather than being just another BMW/Audi/Acura driver.

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  Amazed I Bought it - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By drives2fast - October 24 - 10:00 am

  Spent months researching my next purchase in the sport sedan market. I had pretty much decided to buy the BMW 330I with all the usual packages. Then I started test driving all the different makes: A4, Acura tl-s, Bmw, G- 35, Mazda RX-8, Lexus, and as a lark the new Saab 9-3. Funny thing happened, I couldnt stop going back and driving the Saab Vector. It was just the best combination of Fun to drive, safety, and Utility. After 1500 miles I dont regret the decision at all. This car rocks, just plain fun, I have yet to find anything I dislike about it. If you test drive this car you will probably buy it.

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  Couldnt be happier! - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By Patty - October 24 - 7:56 am

  We purchased this car for our 16 year old son. He always wanted the SAAB convertible. Driving it is an amazing experience. You hate to reach your destination. Heads turn the entire time its on the road. We feel good about its high safety standards. We test drove ALL convertibles - this one is the best the others cannot compare.

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  Nice Car but a Quality Concern - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By jmklwck - October 18 - 2:00 am

  To date the problems have been 1/2 dealership and 1/2 car. It took 9 days to install OnStar, 4 trips to finally fix the cold weather starting problem (software issue), and then the recall of the front axles. I am more concerned about the creaks that are beginning to develop, headboard, seat, and intermittent out of the blue stereo electical miscues. Hopefully the GM portion is rearing its ugly head. I still love the car but its tough driving with your fingers crossed. If you have multiple dealerships in your area then Id support the purchase.

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  Buy one and enjoy - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By David - October 16 - 9:43 am

  I have been more than pleased with its reliability, exceeding my expectations. I have the manual trans. with the 175 hp light pressure turbo. To me, this is the best set up. The engine is smooth and powerful, with no turbo lag, not to mention 28-29 mpg. The interior is roomy with the best seats in the business. The dash has been the only quality let down. Thought I have had nothing go wrong, the centre consol units up the dash seems very flimsy, not tightly secured to the dash. Otherwise, the doors shut with a solidity that is reinforced with the excellent safety ratings (Best in Class!) I recommend SAABs to anyone wise enough to stray from the heard and follow your own road.

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  totally underrated car - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By SAAB guy - October 8 - 3:23 am

  The Saab Aero convertible is a well designed, efficient, fun to drive machine. How many cars deliver 30 mpg at 80 mph? Great back-roads machine as well. The car exhibits minimal understeer. The Pirelli PZero Rossos are responsive and provide a good ride despite their performance nature. This is my first Saab after owning them since 1979 with an automatic transmission. This is not just any automatic but an Aisin 5 speed unit that can be paddle shifted from the steering wheel. It is very smooth and responsive. Contrary to the drivel that is written by all the BMW lovers in the auto press the chassis has no flex, no rattles on any kind of road surface.

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  A truly heartbreaking expereince - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Horrified/Sadened - October 2 - 9:46 pm

  After 8 months and only 10K miles my once passionate purchase is now a shop visiting menace. Small things I was coping with. Now the transmission. Completely unreliable even for work commutes. Rattles galore and surprisingly weak gas mileage (24.2) at high altitude. Cant wait to get rid of it.

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  Fun, fun, fun - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Ferris - October 1 - 10:00 am

  I tried the Audi A4 butthe 1.8T didnt compare favorably. The 9-3 has more horsepower and you can opt for a manual. I have been truly happy with the car. It gets comments every day! Parking attendants, people on the street and other drivers at lights -- people love to comment on its great looks. I have only noticed two drawbacks. First, the stereo is lacking and does not belong in a car of this level or price range. Second, the self- expanding trunk, which originally seemed like a benefit, is a drawback. Even if you pack the truck with the top down, once you put it up, the trunk contents shift and it wont go down again. All in all -- a GREAT car.

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  Very Pleased. I love this car - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By futureray - September 29 - 4:36 pm

  Purchased this vehicle over a month ago. I had already done my homework and found the Saab Sportcombi was a great all around vehicle, and found one for less than a used 2007 Altima with standard features. Vehicle can be driven fast and fun, or more conservative, or like myself in something in between. With an automatic, I get 32 MPG on the highway, 26-27 in mixed driving, and 23 city that is great for a car that gives a nice ride, luxury appointments, and room to spare. One of my consideration was room for four, including 2 kids, 9 and 16. We all ride comfortably, I do have to give up a little legroom, as I am 6-2" but still find it comfortable.