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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  Best kept secret - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By Robert - June 22 - 3:46 pm

  This by far the best quality car Ive owned so far, including my Acura. It gets amazing MPG (30 avg), great turbo performance. For the price I paid, I could not have bought a base Camry. Build quality is fantastic. This is the safest car (class) in America today, Saabs strong suit and heritage. Not a creak or rattle yet. Could you buy a better car? Probably, but at a substantial premium. This is my 2nd Saab in 4 years and reliability has been excellent. The fit and finish is right up there with Lexus. Absolutely zero torque steer. 40-70 acceleration is like a rocket. You really should consider this car. It is a most compelling value in this market space.

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  2008 Saab 9-3 Turbo X - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Saab Fan - June 16 - 8:23 pm

  Just purchased Turbo X sport sedan and really, really love this car. Only had it for a day, but what a blast. Handles like its on rails, power at the lower rpm, not like my previous 98 SE turbo. Very comfortable, but a bit harsh over rough roads. Love the exhaust note! Shifter a bit notchy, but Ive only had it for a day and will get used to it, Im sure. If you like Saabs and want a sports car with all weather capability as a bonus, there is no better car out there.

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  9.3 convertible.....Im not getting rid of it - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By jbeloff - June 15 - 8:50 am

  I have owned a saab for over 20 years and find them to be the highest quality car. While Saab has had its many challenges over the years it has always produce a solid performer with above average reliability. Unfortunately the markets tends to go with the brands with the biggest budget to impress you with the image of its brand. Saab has done a outstanding job mixing form with function. Everyone who has enjoyed the ride in my car are always impressed with the quality and find themselves asking why they never considered on. Saabs brand deserves leadership that can carry its unique niche and continue its quality builds to attract more owners looking for something that just works well.

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  So Far So Good - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Csaab - June 13 - 10:00 am

  So far I have 1300 miles and my Steel Gray Vector has been GREAT!, I love driving this car fast. I get alot of compliments, and questions as to why I purchased a Saab and not a BMW,Lexus or an Audi? So far my only complaint is when you drive on a bad surface you can hear the thud from a pot whole a little too much.

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  pleased - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By young family of 4 - June 7 - 4:20 am

  The car handles wells. We were averaging 32 mpg with a lot of highway driving. The headlight burnt out 3 times in less than 2 years. The passenger door does not always lock. The emblem on the hood fell off, as I have seen happen with many others. We have had to have the arm rest in the center console replaced as well as many of the interior parts because the cheap plastic coating rubs off. We ended up being "stuck" with this car because it has not held its value. Overall, we have enjoyed the vehicle but would have liked to trade it in for something that fits our 2 car seats better. A rear-facing car seat requires that the front seat is moved all the way forward.

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  Great Car - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By Joel - June 5 - 8:56 pm

  I had a deposit on a pre-owned 2004 Volvo S60R and with the cash rebate ended up getting a 2007 60th Anniversary edition in Ice Blue Metallic for the same price. This is a great car for the money, it is a fun drive like everyone else says - very peppy and agile, also the six speed manual is very smooth. I am 63" and leg room is great, head room is just good enough as my hair sometime grazes the ceiling so if you are over 63 def make sure you have enough headroom with the sunroof. Overall extremely comfortable and very intuitive dash and stereo controls. I get many compliments on the cars lines and the spoiler on the 60th edition is a very nice touch.

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  Great Car! - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By otto - June 4 - 1:56 pm

  I own a Saab 9-3 Aero XWD 6M. I have owned six BMWs. While BMWs handle more neutrally, the Saab makes more power for much less than a comparable BMW (328/335 xi). I would have to purchase a near fully loaded 335xi to get this much comfort, convenience, and performance at a cost of nearly $13k more. If you pay anywhere near sticker for these cars you are paying way too much. Wait for a GM year end sale. BMWs are priced nearer selling price. Still, I prefer the Saab regardless. BMWs I-drive, run flat tires, and depreciation (net loss) were the final straw with me. I want a car that is fun to drive up to 9/10th, and this Saab delivers. I do not plan on racing this Saab.

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  9-3 Saab 6 years later I still love it! - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By Heather Walker - June 4 - 12:26 pm

  I bought my Saab used, it was a certified Saab with 30k miles. I have driven it all over the east coast, from Wisconsin to FL. I also drive it everyday to work. Fun and reliable, what more can you ask for from a car?

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  Compromise - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By Bob K - June 3 - 12:40 pm

  Lets face it, if you are only buying one car it is a series of compromises to get what best suits your needs. Sure you would like to have a M3 when you feel sporty and a 350 E Class for your date on Saturday night. Although the Saab 9-3 might not rate best in class for any one category it does well in a lot of them. I have had mine for about a month and am delighted with it in every detail. It is a dream on the highway cruising at just over 2,000 rpm in 6th gear, rolling beautifully and extremely quiet. I had a Saturn Aura prior to the Saab and find it worlds more enjoyable. I recommend using 93 octane as I get 27.5 overall. Could do better if you use restraint with the turbo.

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  Likes to visit its birth place often - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Not for long - June 1 - 2:00 am

  The first five months were great with only the On-star malifunctioning. I have recently experienced a dead battery, two oil leaks, static in the radio, sticking window, and transmssion issues. I am paying for a car that is at the dealership more than leaking in my driveway. Before you rate this car a "10" for reliability, drive it for 10000 miles. I hope you feel the same way. The best comment I can say is that it looks good in the dealerships lot when waiting for the next problem to be fixed.