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 Turbo...dare to compare! - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By Chaz - March 2 - 3:46 pm

  I test drove all of the European imports in this class, and the Saab 9- 3 offers perky performance, nice handling, and great gas mileage. If you drive a lot, the manual seeting with multiple adjustments is better than any electric seating system I have had in the past. The factory sound system leaves a lot to be desired. The on-board computer systems are functional and informational without being intrusive. Plenty of rear seat room for adults as well as children without having to "move the seats up" for rear passengers. Dollar for dollar, a great performer and great investment!

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  Saab 9-3 - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Saab 9-3 - February 28 - 10:10 am

  Dont buy a Saab-- It is a GM Car, remember that! I have had nothing but problems. Car drives great but more electrical nuisance problems than any other car I have ever owned. No one at Saab stands behind their cars. That includes the dealership and the 1800 Customer service number. Saab is very tempting to buy but dont do it!!! Consider the BMW 3 series or Acura TL instead.

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  First Time Saab Owner - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By BTG - February 18 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Saab....which Ive only had for 3 weeks, but have put over 3000 miles on it already. It performs better than any other sedan that Ive driven and is as much fun to drive as my exotic sports car. Im amazed at the fun factor. The standard tires are inadequate for the winter climate....so Ive already had to change out tires. And even with winter-appropriate tires, the car doesnt handle as well as I expected in snowy conditions. (afterall, Vail and Aspen both use Saabs for their police vehicles.)

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  Disappointed with vehicle - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By 2006 Saab 9-3 - February 16 - 4:33 am

  From our purchase date we have been very disappointed with this car. You would think for the price of the vehicle it would hold up better. The car constantly has problems. Problems with the windshield wipers, windshield sprayers, headlights, gas tank cap, doors locking, ingition switch, sunroof, and it rattles. And the problems re-occur. We take it to the Saab dealership service department and two weeks later it is back in the shop for the exact same problem. The front leather seats are very uncomfortable. There is no support in the seat. When you are riding in the front you have a tendency to slip forward almost coming off of the seat. Cheap leather also. Very disappointed w/car.

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  Excellent Car - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Jim K - February 11 - 4:46 pm

  There isnt another wagon on the market with the Saab 9-3s combination of size, comfort, performance, economy, safety and value. I also do not understand why the automotive press continually under rates Saab vehicles. Nothing from Audi, Subaru, VW, Toyota, Honda, Acura compares - look at the specs - the 9-3 has more cargo capacity than anything within $15K of the price - assuming you want to drive a car and not a truck or truck like vehicle. Reliability has been excellent - have owned two 9-3s - gave older one to my son.

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  Mine suffered from oil sludge - 2000 Saab 9-3
  By 2000 9-3 Conv SE 2dr - February 11 - 3:36 am

  I bought my Saab 2000 SE Turbo Convertible as a Certified Used vehicle. After having the car for 2 months, the engine completely blew (as well as the Turbo and catalytic converter) because of a known issue with this 2000 model -- oil sludge. I fought and fought and fought for MONTHS with Saab corporate to fix my $15,000 used lemon. Saab Corporate kept insisting that I PROVE the vehicle had proper maintenance (i.e. oil changes) throughout its life. BUT I had JUST bought the vehicle from a Miami dealer as a CERTIFIED USED vehicle. That, by definition, means the vehicle had a proper maintenance throughout its history. Saab eventually replaced engine, turbo and now the car is fantatic!

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  Lots of Bang for the Buck - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By JTS75 - February 10 - 10:16 pm

  Had my 05 9-3 for a year, and no problems other than a faulty radio which was warrantied without hassle. Its FWD, so its just not quite a Bimmer 330 or a A4 Quattro, but then again your not going to get a deal on either of those vehicles like you will on the 9-3 if you look hard enough. Indeed, with that factor considered, I think the Saab is probably the best overall value in the entry-level lux- sport sedan class. Manual version is a blast to drive and the turbo makes it peppy enough to be fun. Handling is tight and braking is exceptional. Build quality is OK, theres a few cheesy design features that will bum you out a bit. Oh and the stereo is horrific. Other than that, great car!

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  Fast car for Old Man - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By RBK9 - February 10 - 9:40 am

  I love this car! I have yet to see another one on the road. The titan grey color is perfect. The seats are more comfortable than my wifes Cad. STS. Nitpicks: There is an ever present yellow light that tells you whether the passenger side airbag is activated or not. Wish I could turn it off. There is a little bit of road noise, but this may be typical of wagons. I reduced the noise considerably by buying the optional cargo mat. I have been getting 21 mpg, but the low fuel light comes on after about 275 miles. Huge glove box! Terrific handling and acceleration. I have automatic (6 spd) with manual override. Shift with the paddles or with the shifter - its a blast! I highly recommend this car.

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  LEMON - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By jaime - February 9 - 6:06 pm

  We first bought this car at a dealership that went out of business,not knowing that. Saab corp., decided not to contact anyone about this. The car has too many electrical problems.The car has been in the shop about 20x the first year. Every time we turn around there is a problem. We will never buy a Saab again, cant wait to sell it. Very disappointed in every aspect of Saab and there corporation. Consider this a LEMON.

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  Fun car with lots of storage - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By BMV - February 9 - 12:46 pm

  Ive owned this Saab for 2 and a half years. Purchased it used with 58k miles. It will reach 90k soon. Very fun to drive. Turbo lag is minimal. Feels taut at high speeds, nice steering feedback. But wait, this is a family car. The trunk is huge for strollers, golf clubs and oversized stuffed animals from the in-laws. Pulled the hatch cover off recently and packed it to the window for a week long trip to the mountains. It is a quirky Euro car though. Strange issues like Purge Valve throwing CEL codes, bad crank position sensor stranding my wife when the engine compartment got hot (would not start, the fix was to squirt cold water at it). Find yourself a Saab specialist you can trust.