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 131 through 140 of 182.00
  • Incredible sedan ! - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I tend to buy cars that are uncommon, Saab was a natural choice, knowing their history also made me curious. When I test drove a Saab 9-3, I couldnt believe people havent "found" this car yet. Saab 9-3 is the most ergonomically designed car around. Extremely well designed car, so beautiful and stylish outside and inside... my friends (having M3, 5 series, Merc etc) were wanting to get rides in it for a month! You will feel the difference the moment you sit in the drivers seat. You feel euphoria when "turbo" kicks in. Incredible dash, controls, cool features and very comfortable seats. Huge trunk and glovebox. Officially safest (not Volvo) vehicle on road today... sidebags galore. Just love it.

  • Everything seems GREAT to me! - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Not certain about some critical reviews here but Ive had no problems so far and am having a great time driving this vehicle. Plenty of headroom (63"), which was one of the main selling points for me - had trouble with just about any other car/vehicle (even my brother in laws Escalade). This vehicle has superb ergonomics and comfort with handling and performance that does not disappoint. I was cross shopping against an Audi A3 but honestly, there is no comparison (other than the Audis superior DSG transmission - would have loved one of those in this car). I wouldnt hesitate to recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a great handling, powerful and good looking "wagon".

  • I thought there was snow in Sweden - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Although the 9-3 wagon is sporty and comfortable, the snow performance leaves much to be desired. The ground clearance is so low even a dusting of snow made driving treacherous (despite studded snow tires). The front wheel drive did little to propel the car through the mountainous roads in Vermont, leaving me stranded in driveways and scared on the highway. The seats are comfortable but close together, allowing my toddler to kick my elbow while driving. The trunk is small, not able to accomodate a bike trailer. Although the seats are comfortable they are very close together so my toddler can kick my elbow as I drive. The trunk was too small to accommodate a bike trailer.

  • GREAT Car!!!!!! - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I bought my 2006 SAAB 9.3 Aero with the optional touring package and 2.8l Turbo engine. I love it. At the time of my purchase I shopped around and bought a top of line platinum warranty for the car, covering all repairs, from bumper to bumper...Great choice. Although to date I have not had to use the policy it, but it certainly removes any concerns about expense repair costs in the future. Now lets talk about the car. I have looked extensively at BMW, Audi, Lexus and Acuras but settled on this car. It drives well, looks fabulous and no matter how bad my day is at work....settling in my SAAB for the ride back home, reminds me of Christmas day and playing with my favorite toy!!!!!

  • Great value, excellent performance. - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I had no intention of owning a Saab until I stopped to take a look at a 9-3 Sportcombi at a local dealership. I have owned Volvos for over thirty years, but never a Saab. The 9-3 Sportcombi comes in at about $10,000 less than a Volvo XC 70 wagon. Yes, the Saab has less room and is slightly smaller, but it also gets significantly better mileage and is noticeably more nimble. This car is a real sleeper -- when you look at what you get for the money its pretty hard to beat. Im thinking of getting a second one to replace my Ford van. Also, there is virtually no turbo lag, and a lot of get up and go when you need it. Mileage is outstanding for a car of its size.

  • Great when not in the shop... - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I purchased this car on 07/18/06. Up to now (08/15/06), the car has been to the shop 4 times for a/c problems. This car has NOT been reliable and has turned me off from the brand. The few times Ive had it, it has been fun to drive. Its a great little luxury/sport sedan. It drives rather well and is fast once you are above 2000 rpm. Tire noise is audible. The 300 watt system needs improvement. Seats are great and all the controls are with in reach. Fuel economy has been pretty good with about 22-24 mpg.

  • Pretty awesome - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Just bought a 2006 9-3 sedan two weeks ago. Everytime I drive it I end up going over 90 mph because I can hardly tell how fast the car is moving. I am going twice the speed limit on on and off ramps to the highway just to feel the car handle. It is an incredible ride. My only comments on improvement are: (1) the radio is terrible, and I have the premium package with an "upgraded" radio; (2) road noise - for a luxury sedan, it is a bit loud on the highway, even when youre only going 55 mph; (3) the steering wheel should be wrapped in leather, not the plasic/rubber material; and (4) the bottom of the front seats are too squishy. Otherwise, I am in love with my new car.

  • Sixth Saab - best ever - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Great car and so much fun to drive - comfortable, fast. Engine purrs. Top goes down and up quick. Just under 2K miles - no problems at all. 22.4 mpg - and not broken in yet, and city driving.

  • Best Car Ive ever owned! - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I bought my Saab new in 2006 after quite a bit of due diligence and it has been best vehicle I have ever owned. It is fun to drive, economical, reliable, and very functional. Its great in the snow and the turbo gives it great acceleration.

  • Its been great! - 2006 Saab 9-3
    By -

    After 6,000 miles, the car has been absolutely perfect. Nothing has gone wrong. It has averaged 28.1 MPG with only one long trip. It handles well and is very distinctive... gets lots of looks at stop lights. It is more comfortable than I would have expected and rides much better than I though. My last car was a 2002 BMW 525i so that was a tough car to follow. It is my 3rd Saab in the last 20 years... the best of the bunch.

Saab 9-3 Reviews By Year:
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