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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  Do Not BUY A SAAB!!! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Saab Consumer - February 4 - 10:00 am

  I was thrilled when I bought my new Saab 9-3. Less than a month into this car, all hell broke loose! So much for a reliable car, in less than 10 months my car has been in the shop 23 times. Saab Corporate has refused to buy the car back stating that is has to break at least once more to qualify under the Lemon Law. Go to BMW, Audi...anywhere, but to a Saab, trust me, I widh I had!

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  Germany take notice! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By wubba - February 2 - 10:00 am

  I wish the last guy/gal who rated it a 1.0 (and drove down the overall ratings) would admit they are working for BMW. Ill wave bye-bye as I pass youre ass on the autobahn. ...Test-drove the 3, IS300, A4 and C class, if you like DRIVING a car visit you local SAAB dealer.

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  Saabalicious - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By Vincent - February 1 - 9:03 pm

  What can I say. I have been after this car for a while, but being educated, I waited a bit to make sure it is at its peak for the particular model. Best car I have ever owned, even over its German counterparts. Will continue to own Saabs as long as I am alive.

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  Love my - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By bunkyP - January 30 - 10:00 am

  By far the funnest car Ive driven. I have not had any problems with rattles as previous posters have mentioned. I have experienced the "clunk" noise backing out of my driveway, but am 99% certain that it is just the hangers for the exhaust system moving. Its really no big deal. Dealership experience was excellent - they take care of you (free car wash coupons around town, discounted service coupons, accessories, etc.). Only 8K miles so far, but if overall reliability is good, the next car I buy will buy a 9-5!

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  Lindys Review - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Lindy 9-3 - January 30 - 10:00 am

  Beautiful car. Very speedy. Does hitch a bit a lower speeds. Interior comforts abound. Dials/switches could be clearer.

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  2003 93 - Linear, Auto, Launch, Sunroof - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By aardvarq - January 21 - 10:00 am

  Reviews vary on turbo lag. Expect 1/4 second delay when you punch the gas. Remember that this car has 195 ft/lbs of torque, putting it up with some V6s. It seems to run about 32 MPG HWY. Combination driving is about 25 MPG. Last week I drove the twisties... all I can say is wow, what a confidence inspiring car. When pushed hard, the ReAXS system [??] moves the car as if I were trail braking... an odd sensation at first. The "Sentronic" tranny is very nice coming down the hills. I love my new Saab. If you want good performance, MPG, $, and looks, test drive one.

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  Sweet Motor Car - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By SIMONSEZ - January 21 - 10:00 am

  This car rocks! The ARC or Vector 6 spd manual with the high pressure turbo motor is the one to get. Great acceleration from good HP and massive amounts of torque that starts low down and just keeps going! No torque steer to speak of which is simply amazing considering this car accelerates like a scud missile. Safety is second to none and the classy new body style will not date for a long time to come. Interior is sumptious and the seats are extremely supportive and comfortable. The British "CAR" Magazine gave this vehicle 4.5 out of 5 stars, and they are right to do so. With the current rebates available, this car is a steal!

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  Saab 9-3 Convertible - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By tsomers1 - January 21 - 2:00 am

  Ive driven this vehicle for 25 months, just under 18,000 miles. The fit and finish were flawless; I have not had any non-routine maintenance performed. This car handles very well in turns, has a solid "quality" feel, carries lots of people and gear while retaining a small sportscar look. Great sound system, comfortable seats, excellent top.

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  Owned Better - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Owned Better - January 10 - 11:30 pm

  The build quality is quite poor. Rattles and noises first in the doors, then the B pillar, and now the dash. They keep accumulating and the dealer just cant get them fixed. Mechanically, the brakes are noisy and the engine has required tweaking to prevent stalling. The center dash mounted computer also has its own agenda. It doesnt keep time or settings correctly.

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  Dont Let Saab Brand Die! - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By Bob A - January 4 - 2:26 pm

  Going on nearly 3 years with this car. Totally sweet experience. Comfortable yet sporty ride, nice performance, beautiful inside and out.