2000 Saab 9-3 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.25/5 Average
59 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The base model gets restyled 15-inch alloy wheels, while the SE version gains performance enhancements and increased horsepower. The sporty 9-3 Viggen offers even more power, and is available as a five-door or convertible in addition to the coupe. All engines are now LEV compliant and GM's OnStar "Telematics" System becomes optional across the model lineup.

Pros:
  • Comfy interior, versatile hatchback model, torquey turbo motor, quirky personality.
Cons:
  • Controls not always intuitive, offbeat image, spotty build quality.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 59.00
  • The King of Saabs - 2000 Saab 9-3
    By -

    This is my 4th saab (2 spgs, 1 9000 aero, and my viggen). I get more people looking at my car then other cars around. In one day I may see 5 BMW M3s but never a viggen. The speed is awsome. Since they stopped making viggens and have no plans to make an Aero soon, the viggen will reign as the king of the saabs in my opinion.

  • Reliable for the first 50,000... - 2000 Saab 9-3
    By -

    The car was fine for the first 50K, after that everything that could go wrong did. I maintain the car religiously, keep it in a garage and still it is a headache. For the past 12 mos my repair bill average $550 a month (three towings so far), including turbo for $1900, fuel pump assembly $550 and (yes!) a driver seatbelt for $470 (and I use a solid local repair shop not the dealer that charges a first born).

  • Shameful - 2000 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I would expect a lot more out of a car that claims to be an upperscale car. Been a constant nightmare since purchased. While driving it home from the dealer it broke down- $300 repair. Two months later again. $700 repair. then twice more each over $150 repairs. It rides clunky, choppy and stiff, rattles and the body hardware is terrible: door jams wear easily, under the wheelwells wear to the bare metal, and the only good thing is the power and fuel economy and the looks of it. Stay away from this car!

  • Fun Fun fun - 2000 Saab 9-3
    By -

    I have had nothing but good experiences with my Saab, sure, a few minor things have worn out, but you have to expect some maintenance. Its fantastically fun to drive and if you can stay off the turbo it is possible to get over 31 mpg on the highway.

  • Great speed, great space and great price - 2000 Saab 9-3
    By -

    At 64" there arent too many cars I can be comforatable in. The Saab 93 fits me fine. The cargo space is unmatched. I simply can not fit in any 3 series BMW and Audis are too plentiful in my area. Ive always loved the uniqueness of a SAAB and the 93 delivers. The turbo 185 is perfect - not slow, but fast enough to have some fun. The leather in the car is top quality as well.

  • Skys Experience - 2000 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Great Car in every way.

  • Sixth and best Saab - 2000 Saab 9-3
    By -

    This is a great car to drive. Very intuitive on the highway and 21 MPG around town for 185 horses is better than the 92 900S 140 horse non-turbo it replaced. Very torquey and if you punch it in first or second gear the torque will jerk the steering wheel. Not uncontrollably but not exactly a smooth delivery either. Seats are well positioned and supportive.

  • Love em or Hate em - 2000 Saab 9-3
    By -

    We bought our Certified Used 2000 9-3 in 2004. Phenomenal dealer service but, constantly in for repair. As most Saab owners its the car you love and hate. Few cars have the sport, luxury and utility, (hatchback) of the car and 30mpg is easy on the highway. We have logged 99k and are thinking of trading. I drove a 05 9-3 Arc and its seats arent as nice and although it has 210 hp, somehow my 2000 with 185 hp seems just as fast. I still havent made up my mind to keep it but Ive been given an offer on an 05 Volvo S60 AWD and hands down a nicer car than the 05 9-3. Ill miss the Saab service, but as often as they see me, they didnt offer a great deal on the 05 9-3, Volvo did :)

  • Didnt expect so many problems... - 2000 Saab 9-3
    By -

    Purchased this vehicle mid-2001 and has unfortunately been a tremendous headache since end of 2001. Has shut down WHILE DRIVING 3 separate times, towed in total of 6x, is into dealer average of once every 2 months. Manufacturer doesnt seem to stand behind warranty and dealers in this area arent very knowledgeable (if no "code" comes up, dealer says cant fix and need to keep bringing in). Was told by other Saab owners that quality of vehicle line severely dropped once GM took over... Would strongly urge someone to go with a more reliable car.

  • love it - 2000 Saab 9-3
    By -

    no problems love it to death. good for my wife / kid. needs more head room

Saab 9-3 Reviews By Year:
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