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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  Great Value - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By djpower - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Great vale for your money! If you want a conv that is fun to drive and has great looks this is the car to have. In the two years that I have had the car I have not had one problem.

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  Saab 9-3 Arc - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By mtag3 - June 1 - 10:00 am

  The car is still relatively new so Im still getting to know it. I like the drive & most of the features. Dissapointed with the cupholders provided - one in center console is large and I have spilled, one in dash is flimsy. Lots of trunk room I have no problem folding down the seats and tossing my bike in the back.

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  Worst Car Ever Owned - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By cdukes1984 - May 26 - 7:56 pm

  Great looking car with excellent performance but you cant go a week without finding something else wrong with it. Bought it with 41000 miles on it and had to replace the transmission and radiator. The wiper motor, front wheel bearings and window motors are all going to need to be replaced soon too. Definitely will never buy a Saab again.

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  My second 9-3 - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Rodney Imai - May 17 - 2:00 am

  I previously had a 2000 9-3 and never had any problems. After the lease was up, I was happy to purchase it, but the temptation of a new car was too much, so I leased the 2003 model and am glad I did.

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  buying 9-3 linear in one month - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By tobethebest - May 17 - 2:00 am

  I just got home from test driving the 2003 Saab 9-3 linear. I was very impressed with the drive and comfort. I was receiving plenty of looks from good looking girls on and around my University campus. This car made me feel good when driving. I felt more confidence within myself. Its amazing how driving a car can make you feel, and the Saab 9-3 made me feel great. I am currently an Audi owner. For the price the Saab is a much better deal. Looking forward to hearing others comments!

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  60th Anniversary package rocks - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By 1st Saab - May 8 - 6:53 am

  Had the car for almost 2 years. Really been nothing but a pleasure from day one. This is the car I should have bought 10 years ago, though it wasnt available ten years ago. Bose stereo is wonderful. Ride and performance are really nice. Punching the gas every once in a while is a blast. Road noise is not nearly as bad as my former Subaru. Interior design is lovely though there is too much hard, sort-of-cheap-feeling plastic. Rear fold-down seats really create a humongous hatchback-like cargo area. Dealer has been great. The warranty and maintenance are really top notch. Newer models dont have as long of a warranty. Roof rack bars look awesome.

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  Fun to Drive, Yet Sophisticated - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By bluehorseshoe313 - April 26 - 6:46 pm

  I have a 2.0T 60th Anniversary with an auto trans. The auto has some turbo lag off the line, but the "passing gear" is great. Overall the car looks great and is fun to drive. At 64" I have just enough head room, but could use a little more. The Bose audio system sounds good, but the head unit controls are a little confusing to get used to.

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  Best Value on the Road - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By pmgreene - April 26 - 10:50 am

  I love this car. Saab has greatly improved the ride and build quality of the car. I have owned Saabs in the past, and this one much smoother over the rough roads here in New England. Many fewer rattles and overall a much more refined experience. The best thing about this car is the balance of fuel economy and performance. I do a lot of highway driving, but I average 30 mpg. I dont understand the EPA ratings. I had a Lexus IS with the same EPA rating and never got better than 25 mpg in that. I am very happy with the Saab and highly recommend this car to anyone shopping in this segment.

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  Viggen Convertible - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By FAB - April 22 - 10:00 am

  For those looking for a "true" sport convertible with a real backseat, the Viggen should most definately be considered. The car is fast, well made, with very good space and fuel efficient to boot. I live in New England which is Saab territory, but Viggens are rarely seen on roads (I like that)Very much a 4season convertible(though,watch out for bad weather given the fat tires) & still fun to drive with top up. Also did the Flight School which was a total blast. I got a very good deal, which made my decision easy when combined with attributes of Viggen vs. competitiors (BMW, Volvo, MERC, US).

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  I love these cars - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By Pat - April 21 - 7:50 am

  In October of 04, I bought my first Saab, a 99 9-3 S sedan. for 8 months, I loved this car. Then one June night, I was rear ended by a drunk driver at 40mph while I was at a stop... this car saved me from much pain. Since then, it has been replaced with a 99 9-3SE HOT. The AC Compressor binded, shredding the serpentine belt. $1200 dollars later, all is well. Its a joy to drive, gets a lot of looks, and people assume you paid so much more then you did. Rule of thumb is, this car breaks down less then most, but when it does it hurts the wallet. If you cant foot a 1000 dollar bill bi-annually, then this is not the car for you. I love it to death. Drives great, looks great, worth it.