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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  Love this car! - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By fledermaus98 - May 23 - 11:20 am

  Ive had the Saab 9-3 for 4 years now and have loved every minute of it. There have been no major problems with this car and I have only had to do routine maintenance. The only gripe I have is that the silver plastic piece on top of the shifter came off (super glue fixed that!) and there was a rattle in the door which the dealer took care of promptly. The car handles like a dream and is very sporty. The gas mileage is also fantastic! I average 23 in the city (stepping on the gas pedal pretty hard) and 34 on the highway doing 75 to 80 miles an hour. I would not hesitate to recommend this car to anyone!

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  My Lemon Saab - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Pam - May 17 - 9:03 pm

  I am very disappointed...My Saab 9-3 ARC has been in repair 8 times in 1 year, computer and windows, have never worked properly. Im not sure if I should file a complaint or just take the loss and trade-in. Yes, I have driven 38000 miles in 1 year.

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  SOCAL Saab Experience - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By bagman8185 - May 6 - 10:00 am

  I also own a 1988 Saab 900S with 280,000 miles. I have to say the 2003 model is a big step forward. Great handling, plenty of power, once you get into second and third (this car needs the 5 speed manual) and great gas mileage. Just got back from Arizona and got 33 MPG at average 80+ MPH. Have turned 10,000 miles and have zero mechanical complaints. NONE. Has not been back to the dealer one time; no rattles, no issues. However, the base model I got has inadequate back speakers. I spent $100 and replaced them with an upgraded set and all is well. For this price range, I cant imagine beating this car for fun and economy.

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  Huge Disappointment! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By halloween - May 6 - 10:00 am

  LOVED my 2000 Saab 9-3. HATE my 2003 9-3. How anyone who claims to have driven a Mercedes Benz or BMW has the nerve to suggest that this car is a great alternative with a more attractive price tag. They either have to have their heads examined or they are liars and have never stepped foot into either of those car models before. This car is nothing more than a Grand Am with a Saab logo on it. Do yourself a favor and bite the bullet and buy the 3 Series BMW like I am instead of going through the agony of owning this car - it is the worst!!!

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  Great Car, Great Value - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By David - May 4 - 10:43 am

  I was just looking for an affordable car with good gas mileage. After two years, Ive been pleasantly surprised at the overall comfort and performance and havent tired a bit of the design.

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  Luxury that Stands Alone - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Kristina - May 4 - 4:50 am

  I recently purchased a Saab Linear 9-3 and I cant say enough good things about it. I test drove and Audi A-4, a BMW 3-Series and was on my way to test drive a Lexus IS300 when I decided to stop and test drive a Saab. Needless to say, I didnt even bother going to the Lexus dealership, and bought the Saab the next day. Having just graduated college, I wanted a luxury car that was sporty and well-designed, but I didnt want to be looking at a mirror image every time I was stopped at a stop light. That is exactly what I got and I couldnt be more excited every time I get in the drivers seat.

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  GM influence shines through - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By bybyby - April 30 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my 99 convertible (4 year lease turn in) and thought I was buying a cream puff. However, I had to replace part of the front axle as well as numerous other little things that shouldnt be happening on a car with only 40k miles. The car goes down the road great. But beware that late model Saabs are laced with GM DNA and it shows. The build quality and fit and finish is not there and is not like the Saabs of old. Although these cars are still built in Sweden; the Detroit influence (cheap and unreliable) comes through. Saab is forced to used some GM Euro parts and it shows in the car. Its a real shame what GM is doing to this once great brand of car

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  Noisy Car - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By eyeonizer - April 30 - 10:00 am

  This car has 16,000 miles and has been in the shop 7 times for clunks, rattles,brake and electronic problems. It is a "rattle-trap" for a car and the servicers can never figure out the problem.

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  Too many repairs! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By BigHead - April 29 - 11:30 am

  The first year of my cars life was normal. No major repairs. The last two have been horrible. The engine constantly leaks oil despite three repairs to various seals. The electronics are plagued with various bugs in the software and the OnStar module has been replaced twice. Ive had issues with the headlight wiring burning away the insulation on the wires and various other troubles with the computer when either cold or hot (< -15C or >+30C (which in Toronto, Ontario is quite often)). Not too happy overall. However the handling and brakes are fantastic.

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  Bland GM product - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Zeke - April 27 - 2:00 am

  This is an example of how GM can engulf and ruin a smaller company. This car is bland, uninteresting, and full of cheap touches from GM. I have owned Saabs for years, and loved their quirky personality, uniqueness, and practical hatchback design. No more. This car is built on the same platform as a Pontiac Grand Am. Why waste your money on a cheap GM product with a Saab label on it.