Overview & Reviews

For 2004, the 9-3 convertible has been given the same full makeover the sedan received last year. The convertible is available in Arc and Aero models and equipped only with the 210-horsepower engine. The highline Vector sedan has been renamed the Aero, and the midlevel Arc sedan now comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission, rather than a six-speed. Bi-xenon headlights are a stand-alone extra on all 9-3s, while rear parking assist is now available as a non-package option on the sedan. The Sport Wheel Package for the Linear and Arc now includes a tire-pressure monitor.

• Balanced ride and handling characteristics, frugal yet powerful engines, generous passenger room, class-leading trunk space.

• Some turbo lag at lower speeds, interior lacks upscale look, not as vaultlike as some of its European competitors, front-wheel drive a disadvantage against rear-wheel-drive competitors for performance fans.

User Reviews:

Showing 31 through 40 of 223.00

• 

  Saab 9-3 Arc - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By mtag3 - June 1 - 10:00 am

  The car is still relatively new so Im still getting to know it. I like the drive & most of the features. Dissapointed with the cupholders provided - one in center console is large and I have spilled, one in dash is flimsy. Lots of trunk room I have no problem folding down the seats and tossing my bike in the back.

• 

  Wasnt impressed at all - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Steve - April 2 - 8:00 am

  I have been back to the dealership 8 times in the last 3 months. Here is a list of problems: 1. security lock system failure 2. electronic stability control failure 3. turbo failed at 37k miles 4. outside temperature sensor broke 5. Needed to add oil in between oil change 6. loud clicking sound when making sharp turns.

• 

  2004 SAAB 9-3 ARC Convertible for the Masses - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By blacksaabeth2 - March 24 - 8:09 pm

  I truly believe that GM got it right when they retooled the 9-3 convertible for 2004. The older 9-3 convertibles had way too much flex in the chassis. Going over bumps made it feel like it was playing a game of Twister. 2004 convertible utilized GMs epsilon platform from Europe which firmed up the chassis 300%. Okay, maybe thats an exaggeration but it really is firm. Acceleration is more than adequate considering that the engine is a GM inspired 2-liter Ecotec engine with a turbo charger. Same basic engine as found in the old Chevy Cobalt

• 

  Linear is a good bang for the buck - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By tci - March 1 - 10:00 am

  Very nice everyday driver. With a $ 4000.00 GM rebate + dealer dicount my $ 28,500.00 Linear came to under $ 23,000.00 which is an outstanding value. The Aero is nice, but at $30K+, theres better choices.

• 

  Follow up from my last review... - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By COGuy2 - February 24 - 10:00 am

  OK... about a month after my last review (which noted only small problems), its in for service where they found coolant in one of the cylinders. Long story short, two weeks later theyre completely replacing the engine (which has 2500 miles on it). Brand new car, and on 3 occasions already Ive had to drive a loaner (which right now is a Subaru... SaabUSA was giving the dealership grief about giving me a Saab loaner? Huh???!). Luckily (?) Im approaching the criteria to invoke the Lemon Law in Colorado, which is the vehicle being out of service for 30 days in the first year... pretty sad.

• 

  Love this Dependable Smart Convertable - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Scott Stiens - January 22 - 2:00 am

  I have had many cars, and still do: a DeLorean DMC-12, a Honda Accord, a Honda Civic, a Nissan Maxima, a convertable 77 Buick Skylark convertable muscle car, and in the end - - I love the Saab best -- it has all the best of the others, even the sex appeal of the DeLorean with the Saab curves and hidden retractable rag top! They are an especially good buy one year old, and the warrenty lasts five!

• 

  Love it when its working - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Kim - November 22 - 9:00 pm

  It is a beautiful car that is fun to drive...when everything is working which is seldom. The sunroof works when it feels like it as does the radio and CD player. Have replaced the master cylinder twice in a year and a half. The stability control went out to the tune of $700. The locks constantly malfunction. The brakes are always spongy. Have replaced a wheel bearing also. This is all in less than two years of owning it. I am considering trading it even though I owe money on it. I would never buy another Saab. I walk up to it and love it then get in and something isnt working again and I get angry. SAAB - Somethings Almost Always Broken.

• 

  Linear Saab - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By thomas t - June 12 - 10:00 am

  Happy with this car so far. Smooth ride, classy exterior. Upgraded 16 inch wheels are distinctive.

• 

  2004 Saab 9-3 Linear - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By BoB B - March 7 - 7:36 pm

  All in all not a bad car. It just started with the electrical gremlins @ 35K. Had the window regs. replaced many times. The rattles have started too.

• 

  Disappointed and waiting... - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Dissappointed ,,, - February 22 - 5:10 pm

  First off a very nice car to drive top up or down. However I have had a recurring air bag malfunction error message displayed on the info center. I have taken to dealership on five different occassions. Dealership directed me to contact Saab and has recommended that vehicle be return to manufacturer however I am still waiting. Car purchased in August 05 and as of today it has been in dealership for repair for over 50 days. Saab has agreed exchange vehicle for 2006 which has a lower price and they dont feel that I need to be compensated for the difference or aggravation. No policy to satisfy the customer. Great ride when I have it...