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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  I Miss My Saab! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By I Miss My Saab... - August 1 - 9:36 pm

  I am still kicking myself ever since the day I sold the best car Ive ever owned! I bought my Saab because I didnt want to conform to they typical A4, 3 series or IS300. I only had minor problems with it that were all fixed under warranty: Door handles, peeling dash, key FOB, door lock. Nothing major, great dealership treatment from Saab of Santa Ana. I sold it because the family needed and SUV to pull our boat. The SUV (Infiniti QX4) currently has a for sale sign on it and Im in the market for another 9-3 (hopefully the convertible this time!)

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  Second Time Around - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Pete - July 29 - 2:16 am

  Although Ive only put about 500 miles on this car (has cold weather & premium packages) I must say there is an enormous difference between it and the car it replaces, my 2003 Saab SE convertible. The handling, style, fit and finish are all superior. The added weight combined with improved responsiveness to driver inputs give this vehicle a much more "european" feel. Simply put, this car is fun to drive.

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  I never thought Id like a Saab - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By Comet335 - July 25 - 9:43 am

  I purchased a pre-owned Saab 9-3 5 door automatic with 79,000 miles on it as a second car. I LOVE IT! I would rather drive this car than my new Lincoln. Great engine, sporty, nice looks. I have only had to replace a sensor ($300) in the engine. Great car for the money.

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  New to a Convertible - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By saabconvert - July 23 - 10:00 am

  I was looking for a convertible that was fun to drive, while at the same time practical for a family. Based upon extensive review, I settled for a 2004 Saab Aero Convertible. I am 62" and need a interior space. The Saab delivered. The 13 speaker stereo was awesome. The car handles great and has a back seat that can fit two teenage children.

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  The best all-around convertible. - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By spaced - July 21 - 10:00 am

  I recently purchased my Certified Pre- Owned Saab convertible after much research into pre-owned luxury convertible options. The Saab 9-3 S has the right mix of performance, safety, style, fun factor, and value. Body rattles over rough pavement are minimized, especially considering this car is a convertible. Seats 4 adults very comfortably. Even I (63") can fit in the back seat! Midnight blue is --beautiful--!!!

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  Fun, Fast & Comfortable Swedish Style! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By jimb - July 20 - 8:03 am

  My 2003 Saab 9-3 Convertible is a very reliable, comfortable, well-built automobile. Power from the turbo-charged 2.0 liter 4 is outstanding, as is the gas mileage - 20 mpg city, 28 highway. The seats are superb - Ive driven 10 hours non-stop in complete comfort. The 9-3 handles well and provides a smooth, quiet ride. The power top operates without a hitch, and driving with the top down is a great experience. I love the styling of the Saab inside & out, and the trunk is quite large for a convertible. The rear seat is most suitable for 2 children or smaller adults, as the convertible top does take up some space. Overall I rate the Saab a 9+ out of 10.

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  I sold my 3 series... - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By bloody - July 17 - 10:00 am

  and bought the 9-3 Aero. I am pleased with my purchase and the Saab dealership. Looked at another 3 and a Benz C320 before the Saab. Listen folks, if I acted anything like the people selling the beemers or benz when I was a beemer owner, Im sorry. The Saab is in the same class without all the hooplah.

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  Flat out outstanding vehicle - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By NeilN - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Not one complaint about this car. It has exceeded my expectations in every way, and my expectations were high.

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  Love It ! - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By JasonK - July 14 - 2:00 am

  Prior to buying, I had researched the "sport-luxury" class thoroughly. What won me over was Saabs personality and the test drive. The car is very responsive, handles extremely well; the turbo lag can be mitigated by proper modulation of gas and clutch. The torque steer isnt that bad, but this is a car that requires driver attention. The workmanship is great, and the control surfaces are well designed and placed - a few inches away from the shifter or steering wheel. Seats are comfortable and supportive. Drove the car to Colorado this summer. The car was incredibly agile and fast on the winding, steep mountain roads, and well mannered on the interstates.

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  Saabs best car yet? - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Paul Hughes - July 6 - 2:30 pm

  This is my fourth Saab and my favorite. V6 is smooth and torquey, manual transmission light and easy to use. (Kudos to GM on the engine!) And best handling FWD car Ive driven in a long time. Saab needs to upgrade the stereo. it is weak for 300W. Super supportive and comfortable seats, and a more unique convertible choice for So. California, which I like. I highly recommend this car.