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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  Basic Car 2004 0-3 Linear - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By walter0644 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  I was looking for a basic car with no real extras (sun roof, pwr seat, etc.) that would be fun to drive, with good performance to take the place of the 2000 Volvo S40. The only problem was with a broken door latch which set off the alarm and info panel. Once replaced, everything has worked fine.

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  2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible, wow! - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Russ, Largo, Fl - August 28 - 5:26 am

  Move over Mercedes CLK 320 convertible. Ive owned one and the Saab is 12k less with far more features, standard features and the most awesome driving experience you will ever have hands down. This vehicle is the very best mixture of luxury and sport Ive ever encountered. Its handling is crisp, yet comfortable and eager to please. Its as if the driver is one with the car. Very simply, you put gas in it and the car takes care of itself. It monitors all essential functions, has XM radio, OnStar, remote top down, additional lighting, superior guages, 3 comfort zones and so much more. Leases included all maintenance and bumper to bumper warranty. This is positively one sweet machine.

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  Very Enjoyable - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By Michigan - August 24 - 9:56 pm

  Bought it used for the purpose of a new salesmans car. I easily put 50,000 miles on in one year and never had anything major go wrong. Tires, synthetic oil, blah blah blah. The point? No problems. I had been warned by many about a Saabs reliability. This obviously proved untrue. The zero to whatever as many reviews have testified to is nothing to write home about. Its better than most I would say, but passing power with the auto-stick transmission is a blast. The trunk is huge, backseats are small and the overall comfort for the driver is sufficient. Good tires go a long way and I tinted all of the side and rear windows which dramatically improves overall car appearance (I think).

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  Most fun Ive ever had in a sedan - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Bill C - August 21 - 5:00 pm

  This car encapsulates everything I want: style, speed, value, and dependability. I have a 44 mile round-trip work commute and I (almost) look forward to it.

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  Beautiful automobile - blast to drive - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By GKellogg - August 17 - 3:06 pm

  I love this car. Aside from being gorgeous, it is exhilarating to drive. With the manual transmission you can really play with the turbo boost which is what makes this (as well as other Saabs) so fun to drive. The guy with the X5 mentioned he likes not getting as much attention as with his BMW? Nooooooo....lots of stares because its NOT a run of the mill 3-Series that you see on every street corner! Love it.

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  Lovin it! - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By Bossman - August 6 - 1:40 am

  Purchased this Aero sport combi and put 1500 miles in the first week. What a great car to drive, responsive, commanding, begs to go 80 plus. Smooth and exhilarating. Saab does a poor job in marketing casue this blows away a comparable BMW. Some minor electronic bugs that dealer will handle- otherwise A plus. Nav and onstar is the way to go. Surprising hwy mileage less than 26, hoping to do better when I slow down.

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  My Sabb - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By J007 - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Ive loved my car ever since I bought it. It is really fun to drive.

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  Great Swedish Sport - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By dtmarz - August 3 - 10:00 am

  My Black ARC is definitely the best Car Ive ever owned. My smile starts every time I click the key fob to unlock the door, and the light flash a quick Hello. Everything you read about the great safety features, can be matched with the performance and attention to user details (for the driver and all the passengers). Saab shows its serious about building a great car, not marketing hype.

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  Viggen, a classic sleeper car - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By VIGGEN LOVER - July 29 - 5:13 am

  Amazing car. Engineered like no other. Find a good honest mechanic and you will be fine. Avoid GM like the plague. Use resources for parts and advice and learn to turn a wrench. In no time you will know more about your car than the harried GM mechanics who mistake it for a Sunfire. A few mods and PRESTO! you have a 400 hp fire breathing monster. In my experience, this is an incredibly well thought out car which is engineered like no other.

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  Overall a great car - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By ArcGP - July 27 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car after more than a years worth of research. Test drove BMW 325,Audi A4,VW Passat GLS,Acura TSX and found the 9-3 to have the perfect combination of power, luxury, and roominess. For the money, there arent many better options. The TSX was nice, but too bland and too much like the Honda Civic I was replacing. There is a slight bit of Turbo lag in the Saab, but not very noticeable. VW did not handle as tight as I preferrred, though it was a good overall value. BMW was a tad too small and pricey for what you get. Unfortuantely my Saab does have the door panel rattle problem, but Saab is working on a fix. Otherwise it is an awesome car.