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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  9-3 Arc 5-speed manual - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By csample - December 26 - 10:00 am

  The manual transmission with the high boost turbo gives you plenty of power at usuable rpm ranges with very little turbo lag. Ive driven several of the Japanese and German competitors (A4, BMW, TSX, etc.). While the handling characteristics dont quite match the german sports sedans, they are still very good and result in a fun car to drive. This car will never be as common as those vehicles either. The interior is quite plush, with all of the expected amenities in this price range. Overall, I love the car.

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  I live in Buffalo and my saab is great! - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Susan G - December 26 - 10:00 am

  With gas prices going up I appreciate the choice I made going with a saab convertible even more. The car is solid, fast and performs great, with snow tires, in the snow. The car is reliable and the gray exterior with tan interior is a killer combination. The sports package is a must. Never got more looks or compliments on any car before.

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  Back to Saab - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By Black Aero - December 24 - 3:53 am

  After owning 5 Saabs, GM ownership was the end of the line. We went to Audi with a TT and A4 Avant. After 10 years of frustration with Audi products I figured what do I have to lose. Big surprise this is the best Saab I have ever owned. I thought my 92 9000 Aero was a great car and this is better. I have not had it long enough to rate the reliability but when you take price into consideration this has become the favorite of a 5 car family.

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  This car rocks - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Susan Johnson - December 21 - 10:00 am

  We test drove everything and without a doubt the Saab Arc was the most fun to drive.

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  A well-rounded car - 2009 Saab 9-3
  By Steve - November 27 - 7:06 am

  The 2009 9-3 performs well in every category. Excellent handing meaning just the right feedback from steering and feel of the road. The steering wheel is thick with thumb support that adds to the sense of control. A sense of control of the car in every situation - even in snow storms and driving rain. Comfortable seats that are appreciated more on longer driving trips. Easy to reach and understand dashboard - nothing too fancy like most higher end cars. Good views of the road. A safety record unmatched by most cars - check out the insurance loss chart on the IIHS site - Saab is either the safest or the top two or three safest cars on the road. Why? Re-read my comments.

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  11 Months and still loving my 9-3 Linear - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By BrianCA - November 17 - 1:10 am

  Ive had my Linear with the Cold Weather and Touring Packages for 11 months. I love it. The ride is great, it handles like its on rails, and the car turns heads. The auto climate control works very well, and the heated seats are great. I love the auto stick shift. A real thrill to drive. The major problem with this car is the sound system. The base system is simply terrible. I upgraded to the premium system (13 speakers, 350 watts), and it is simply awesome. Saab shouldnt waste time on that terrible base system. Ive had no problems so far, and love this car as much today as the moment I drove it off the lot.

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  I love this car !!! - 2000 Saab 9-3
  By ACS - November 15 - 10:46 pm

  This care is great! Id very much like to upgrade to a Viggen when my lease is up on this car. For those of you who like Saabs - this is the car for you.

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  Welcome to the premium-class SAAB! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By William C. Eastwood - November 12 - 10:00 am

  A good friend of mine works at SAABs NY office and got to test the new 9-3, as a good friend of his I got to drive it to. What can I say, a wonderful car. Im considering getting rid of my BMW 330Ci and getting a new 9-3 Aero when it hits the market, I suggest you do the same!

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  Daves Saab - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By D&LG - November 7 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I have owned Saabs for 20 years from the old 900s to the 9000 CDs. Our family now has 3 Saabs and the 2004 9-3 Saab Convertible is the outright best we have ever purchased. This car handles like a dream the interior is even better than the 2003 model for comfort. The only thing I wish Saab would do would be to get rid of the funky cup holder in the dash. With all the features in this car that should not be there. I cant wait to see what comes out next in the new Saab line up. We are waiting for the new 9-7 SUV to come over to trade our SUV. Thank you Saab for an out right fantastic driving experience. Definately fun to drive.

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  99 Saab 4-Dr Turbo Hatchback - the best! - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By D Haverkamp - November 4 - 6:36 pm

  This is my fourth Saab, and it has been the best so far. The construction is solid, with very low road noise. The seating is comfortable both front and back. The handling is tight and reliable. Visibility is excellent. The original sound system still sounds as good today as when I bought the car new. Mileage has also been good--- about 32 mph on the highway, around 24 in-town.