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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  This is a cool car!! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Saabdriver - October 30 - 2:00 am

  I wasnt going to purchase this car; what I really wanted was a Volvo S40. But after I test-drove it, I fell in love. The 9-3 is as sophisticated as the S40 but with more features. It has a sporty engine like the A4 but without the high torque. It is one of the best cars in its class. Its comfortable, has tons of amenities and great performance. In addition to all of that, my dealership in Akron, Ohio (Towell Saab) gave me one of the best deals going on this car. I cant believe what Im paying (or not paying). If you are in Ohio, go there to get your Saab!

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  Great, fun car! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By ftnss1 - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Arc almost 2 months now (3k miles). I love driving it more and more every day. Handling and grip are awesome for a sedan! Acceleration is very brisk, despite slight turbo lag off the line. I love the design, the comfort (great seats!), the on- star system. Well see about reliability -- suffered minor stalling problem at very low speed, now apparently corrected by dealer reprogramming the computer; homelink garage opener doesnt work (for anyone, apparently); otherwise, no problems. Great value for the money and reeaally fun to drive.

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  I made the right choice - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Jeff - October 10 - 6:36 pm

  I looked into the Accord EX V6 as well as the Acura TL w/Nav before choosing the 9-3 Aero. While I am not happy with the navigation system (and did not spend the money for it), the car is an absolute blast to drive, meets or exceeds ALL of my expectations and is everything I wanted. I got this as a replacement for my RX-8 after having our second child and I was worried I would be disappointed. Was I wrong! It corners amazingly, has immediate pickup, is well laid out inside, and comes with a bevy of standard features that you pay extra for in Volvo, BMW, Infinit, and others. Everyone seems to have an Acura or BMW but FEW have a Saab.

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  1st Saab - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By windogru - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Outstanding first Saab. It is a real joy owning a unique one of a kind car-- it is not a car every one wants but that is their problem.

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  5000 MIles - Better Than Expected - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Jyerka - October 6 - 11:06 pm

  I have driven this car enough to know that I am very happy with my choice. The car looks sharp, it handles great, and is well engineered. I had previously heard that the suspension is too soft and that the turbo doesnt feel right. Im fairly picky, and I think the suspension is perfect for casual or "aggressive" driving. The turbo seems fine to me, though this is my first car with turbo. The cargo area is very useful - I needed this for work, and it holds plenty. The folding seats, cargo cover, and nets are logically set up and functional.

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  Sold on Saab - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By misha90 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This is my first Saab. With price of fuel rising if I keep my foot out of the turbo I get 30mpg. Corners better than my 79 Porsche(Audi)924. Turbo lag is almost imperceptible. Huge trunk for a car its size. Very quiet on the highway. I like the info display on dash more than I thought. Radio is way cool some stations it tells you the song that is playing. I am sold on Saabs. Bought my wife 9-5 wagon.

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  "Double Pick" front and side impact GOLD - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Gerry - September 19 - 10:46 am

  Safety #1 "DOUBLE PICKED" by the IIHS for front and side impact GOLD, even the Volvo with its well known safety features was not on the top 10 awardees. Awesome car we where looking at the Volvo S60, MB C230, Audi A4, and BMW 330i... But no one could beat the price even with all the optional features tacked on. I could not pass that up, great car, nice ride semi road noise when the moonroof is up in freeway. My wife loves all the buttons, dual control climate control w/ filter, dual power seats, roomy back seats, and cooled glove box. They have really got a winner here now all they have to do is redefine the 9-5...

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  A great sport sedan.....a great Saab! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Dr. Gilpatient - September 18 - 2:00 am

  The exterior styling, the smooth ride, the non existence of torque steer, the interior comfort....everything is just wonderful. Ive had my car for less than a month and while I test drove the BMW 3- series and Mercedes C-class, this brand new Saab ranks right up there with these luxury car giants. I cant wait to see what the all new 9- 3 convertible will look like. I hear it will be gorgeous! Saab is definitely on the rise.

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  Nice Car. Fantastic Value - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By cman321 - September 12 - 10:00 am

  i have been thoroughly enjoying my new arc for a week. I look forward to driving the car more than any other car i have had in the past. The car is a tremendous value with the 3,000 rebate offered by GM. Plus with GM supplier pricing, 5k off total, the car is a great deal, especially if you hold off on the expensive options. My price was a bit more than 26k plus TTL. That is about the price of a completely stripped, cloth A4 with 170 hp.

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  An underated fun car to drive - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By anthony - September 7 - 2:50 pm

  Unfortunately Saab gets bad press here in the States. This is a fun car to drive, handles well and the one fact overlooked is its a safe car with many safety features for a convertible. Ive owned many cars over the years and drove as much. The seats (where you spend most of your time) are extremely comfortable unlike the BMW convertible. A virtual maintenance free car thats a pleasure to own and drive.