2006 Saab 9-3 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.59/5 Average
182 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A new wagon body style called the SportCombi has been added to the Saab 9-3 lineup for 2006. Additionally, Aero models get a new, more powerful turbocharged V6, which packs 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Linear and Arc trims have been merged into a single base 2.0T trim, and the Aero's old 210-hp turbo four is standard on this model. Finally, all 9-3s now come with body-colored door handles.

Pros:
  • Handles well for a front-drive car, frugal yet powerful engines, generous passenger room, class-leading trunk space, excellent crash test scores.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 111 through 120 of 182.00
  • LOVE MY CAR - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Memorial day this year I hit a deer head on at 65 mph. Grateful no one got hurt, but concerned the airbags didnt go off. I am still waiting for it to be fixed-over $8200 of damage. I miss my car, as it has been fantastic to drive. Never any problems not even in snow. But getting parts for a Saab I find isnt easy. I am told I am #123 in line for the radiator mount, and no clue on how long it takes to fill the back order. Ugh! But hopefully it is before summer is over, as this is why I bought the car. To put the top-down and go for my long drives. This car has been worth every Penny I paid on it.

  • Good Choice - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Extremely pleased so far - handling, styling, and power meet my high expectations from Saab. Enjoy setting the automatic controls so the radio & heat come on the way I want them to. Love the "heads-up" display atop the dash, but why do I still have a big screen in the middle of the dash with nothing to display? The basic audio system is a bit bland - Im sure theres a subwoofer in there someplace, but my ears havent found it. The engine has nice perky pickup, although the delay while the turbo kicks in was odd at first. Still, I find myself doing 80 without realizing it.

  • So far so good - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I hope that this will provide a bit of a longterm insight. My SportCombi has 32000 miles now. It is still a blast to drive. Always leaves me with a smile. Tested multiple cars prior to this choice. Traded in a 2003 Passat wagon. Love practicality of this wagon and it has a great profile. Drove A3, A4, BMW 325x, Mazda6 wagon, and none were perfect. Chose Saab for a couple of reasons, cost, fun to drive, practicality and style. No major headaches, just some minor quirks, such as the keys needing reprogrammed. I was afraid at first that the interior may not hold up, but it has. Original Pirelli tires stunk, have new Potenzas and it is night and day. All and all very pleased.

  • Very Impressed! - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Never having owned a Saab before, I was a little apprehensive at first. That is, until I got behind the wheel! the performance is captivating and the drive is a whole lot quieter than expected (via other reviews on other websites). Fuel economy is fair to well in city driving and terrific on hwy. I love the interior gadgets and ability to connect my iPod. Weve had it for over a month now and I continue to be impressed with every aspect of this vehicle. Sound system is terrific and the power moonroof is an absolute MUST!

  • I love it - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    It may not be fair to rate this car yet, as I just picked it up 3 days ago. So far, it is my favorite car ever. It is very sporty with quick pick-up. Sound system and interior design are excellent. I am surrounded by air-bags. No oil change for 15000 miles (or more) and other than tire rotation every 5000, all maintenance is covered including roadside assistance. Trunk space is excellent. I think I am a Saab owner for life.

  • Great choice - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Was looking at BMW 3-series when I came across the new 9-3 aero...so glad I did! Amazing car to drive...so smooth and quiet on the road, with plenty of space inside for hauling people and things. Ive always had a liking of "unique" cars, and the Saab 9-3 is definitely a unique car. Its all the luxury and performance of a BMW or Audi, at a slightly lower price, and you can bet you wont see another one at every stop light!

  • Aero Pleasure - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I compared many cars before ultimately deciding on the 9-3 Aero V6. It would have cost me $5,000 more to buy a comparable car from another manufacturer. I was extremely pleased with the overall value I achieved, having purchased every available option and not breaking the $40K barrier. I have to say, the audio quality of the 300 watt stereo is disappointing & the navigation system is extremely poor! The navigation unit in a Honda Civic is far better! I understand that both the stereo and the navigation have been improved and this makes me wish I had waited to buy the 2007 model. I had a problem with the coolant system and after 6 service trips, I think it has finally been fixed!

  • I love my Saab - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Saabs get a bad rap for their interiors. I love the interior of mine. In my opinion the scandinavian/cockpit inspired styling beats BMW, Acura, and Audi. I get a zen like tranquility sitting in it. The outside styling is great too.

  • Great convertible - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    We bought our 93 2.0 turbo 4 cyl standard transmission convertible used with 33,000 miles 2 months ago. The previous owner kept it in excellent condition and I think we got a terrific price at less than 1/2 of its original price. The car is solid, the doors are heavy, outside noise is minimal and the road noise is less than our Volvo S60. The stick shift is smooth and the steering tracks very tight with minimal lean in the turns. The top is a marvel to watch and is water tight while driving. The trunk space is flexible so if you need more space put up the top. I am 62" and I can fit in the back seat fine. The seats are more comfortable than our previous Mercedes.

  • Sundays-only car - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Beautiful when youre single or dating, or married with no kids. Not a family car. Fun beyond belief to drive. However, way too many little annoying problems, rattling noises all over the interior after 25000 miles. Electrical problems day in and day out (radio, windows, sunroof, blinkers). In a few words: I regret buying this car and I do not recommend it. Dont forget, all NEW cars ride nice at the beginning but not all stay that way.

Saab 9-3 Reviews By Year:
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