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:

• 

  Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By jpn207 - January 1 - 10:20 pm

  This car had two personalities. It was easily one of the best handling road cars in any situation or condition that I have ever driven. On the highway the car was a dream, getting over 31 mpg and so smooth that the only thing that prevented me from getting tickets was the speed alarm that I set for 90 MPH. HOWEVER, the service record was abysmal. The car was in the shop 44 times in 24 months. Most problems were computer related (mechanically the car is very sound). Eventually the people at the dealership found a broken wire in the wiring harness underneath the battery that was causing the car to break down. If you buy one of the 03s you should get friendly with your service techs!

• 

  My Little black Dress that i just can help but love - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By osvsct - January 1 - 1:45 am

  Well to start of it is a 2001 Saab Viggen and i adore this car. Yes as with most cars stuff has broken or has gone wrong but nothing that if u know how to use the internet can easy be fixed for a cheaper price. well this is my Second Saab 9-3 and my first Viggen. I love the car for its low stance its after market rims and the most important that tiny coke bottle displacement engine with its shop vac sized turbo. I dont drive it hard cuz it gets noticed more going low and slow witch is what i like (less speeding tickets) but out on the high was its stable, flat and has more than ample power for passing. but like all Turbo engines the best bet is to change your oil every 4000km with synthetic

• 

  Fast - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By xian - December 30 - 2:00 am

  This car is great. I leased this car with the all the options they were offering, sans the 17 inch wheels (I have the 16s). This is really sharp. The manual didnt quite match up with the CD changer, and the OnStar was not ready when I picked up my 9-3 (the dealer told me the software was not ready). So far, for my first Saab, its been great.

• 

  Absolutely awesome - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By NHsaabguy - December 27 - 1:36 pm

  I just bought this car about 4 days ago and I couldnt be more happy. I looked at a 328xi, the C280, and the A4. When I drove the 60th anniversary edition Saab 9-3, I was immediately impressed. Its curves and sporty styling cues gave it the edge in the styling department but what I enjoyed most was how it drove. I fell in love with the turbo power and torque that allows this car to launch, especially when you are already going 40+ mph.

• 

  2005 Saab - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By Russ - December 23 - 7:00 am

  I just purchased an 05 Saab Linear. I am really pleased with sporty look and power the turbo produces. Whats great about this vehicle is the gas mileage. It says 30 on the highway, but its actually 36. I get 27 in the city. Great vehicle!

• 

  Very Impressed! - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By mjbcl1 - December 21 - 6:46 am

  Never having owned a Saab before, I was a little apprehensive at first. That is, until I got behind the wheel! the performance is captivating and the drive is a whole lot quieter than expected (via other reviews on other websites). Fuel economy is fair to well in city driving and terrific on hwy. I love the interior gadgets and ability to connect my iPod. Weve had it for over a month now and I continue to be impressed with every aspect of this vehicle. Sound system is terrific and the power moonroof is an absolute MUST!

• 

  Great Car for the Money - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By nbcmarine - December 19 - 10:00 am

  I started out looking for a brand new BMW. Someone suggested I check out the new 9-3, Im glad I did. Price wise its a great value compared to the Bimmer. Handsome all around, I was impressed by its Scandanavian attributes and performance. Do yourself a favor before you buy any car in that price range and check this one out. The car really is a great value when you consider that a Nissan Maxima or Honda Accord with similar option about the same as the Saab.

• 

  Cant stop driving.... - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By lbh - December 18 - 9:23 am

  I had a great car before - a 300HP V6 Infiniti - and this 210HP inline 4 is more fun. Pure excitement when the turbo kicks in as the power band is just awesome. Wait till you hit about 40 mph and then you will fly - much quicker to 80 mph than one would think! I LOVE the interior - not as Saab as the past - but still Saab, Swedish simplicity and minimalism. I admit to having a few rattles and the brakes emit a squeal in reverse. But my enjoyment of my 9-3 is pure.

• 

  Saab s GO GO GO - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Rosco - December 13 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle corners very well, feels very well in the cockpit, and when the turbo kicks in . . . it goes fast enough to get to through the traffic holes. I never thought, I would ever drive this car, but after 1 drive . . . well I dont encourage my wife to drive this at all. Good job goes to the designers!

• 

  I love it - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By steve - December 9 - 11:53 pm

  It may not be fair to rate this car yet, as I just picked it up 3 days ago. So far, it is my favorite car ever. It is very sporty with quick pick-up. Sound system and interior design are excellent. I am surrounded by air-bags. No oil change for 15000 miles (or more) and other than tire rotation every 5000, all maintenance is covered including roadside assistance. Trunk space is excellent. I think I am a Saab owner for life.