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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  The truth about under rated vehicle - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By NNovesky - December 2 - 10:00 am

  This is a fine car, exceeding expectations in all areas. One small issue is the turbo lag in lower gears only accentuated by the dramatic pickup found as you proceed into 3d, 4th, 5th and 6th gears. Thats right, 6th gear. The 6th gear is a very nice addition for highway driving. Unfortunately 80-90 mph feels like 60mph!! Handling is outstanding and, for my purposes (some moderate distance highways driving, country roads in rural NE and pleasure trips) better than G35 and similar cars. A+ vehicle.

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  Saab Now, Save Greater - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By JCinDC - December 1 - 7:03 pm

  Grew up around the 70s New Englander Saabophiles vs the "Saab Now Cry Later" crowd...their battles on quirkiness and reliability vs individuality and snow- going were legendary. Never much favored a side nor desired to own one, as not a hatchback fan. But caught the redesigned 2008 2.0T on the beltway, and now have taken the plunge. Got a loaded model sans the better stereo and bigger wheels - couldnt get those options with immediate availabilty in the smokey beige color. Just broke 2500 miles of daily commuting and two long road trips. If not for some easily correctable annoyances and a little more zip off the line, this car could be a Best Buy and crush the competition at this price point.

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  Great car at a great price - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By awjones - November 27 - 5:46 am

  This truly is a great car at a great price. Compared this vehicle to bmw 3 series, audi a4. There is no comparison. Great interior, very comfortable (Im 64", plenty of front legroom). Nice stereo, with xm, nicely designed console. The 2.0T provides a lot of pickup, especially at high speeds. Very smooth ride, handles well, good fuel economy (runs any grade fuel except racing), xenon headlights are great for night driving. Handles well in heavy rain. All kinds of goodies in this car.

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  Fun Fun Fun - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By fast fredi - November 21 - 10:00 am

  Fun, Fun, Fun. This Saab is much more elegant. The 88 Saab design was far ahead of any other car that was on the road at the time. Saab again has developed a car far beyond anything else on the road. This time they improved the ride, much smoother, very little turbo lag, and good fuel economy. The top comes down with the touch of one button. But there is always a draw back to Saab, If you are going on a long trip, take another car or dont take any clothes with you. Trunk space is a big factor if you travel alot. If the top is down, You can put a pack of gum and a pair of shoes. but all in all UI love my new SAAB.

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  08 9-3 Aero Sportcombi XWD - Great car! - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By simul8guy - November 17 - 12:36 pm

  Contrary to some of the criticisms in the Edmunds model review, this car is a great looking performer thats very satisfying to drive. Its amazing how quickly you get to 70 without pushing the go pedal very far. Great ride on the highway, this car is a cruiser! Ive been getting doubletakes in this car that Id never get in most of the other non-descript cookie cutter designs out there. The Sportcombi is very versatile without the typical station wagon look (I think it looks better than the sedan). With the incentives currently available on the 08 model this car should definitely be on your short list.

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  Great car, but beware of the cupholder! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Brendan Larson - November 11 - 10:00 am

  Like almost everyone else, I test drove A4s, BMW 3s, G35s, etc. and really didnt even consider the SAAB until I happened to pass a dealership and saw a 9-3 Vector. Great car, beautiful styling, good performance and fuel economy, but BE CAREFUL with the dash- mounted cup holder. I accidentally clipped it with my briefcase and it cost me $200 to get it fixed.

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  I really do like my 9-3 - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By Eric - November 7 - 10:00 am

  I use the Saab as my 2nd car and just for commuting to an from work... and for that purpose it really works well. The gas mileage is good (low 20s) and the car is easy/fun to drive and weave through traffic in. I could have purchased a Civic or another comparable vehicle for what I paid for the Saab in 01 but there is no comparison and that was a very easy decision. You get a lot of value for the dollar (if buying used) and that is probably the most appealing thing about this car.

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  Not Worth it! - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By llangone - November 4 - 3:36 pm

  I loved this car when I bought it. For the first 9 months it was great and a lot of fun to drive, then everything went down hill from there. The airbag malfunctioned and required replacement, pullies seized, the top has stopped working. The car looks great, but is not worth the headaches! My husband has sworn off Saabs for our family.

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  80% Fun, 20% Headache - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Marshall H - November 3 - 5:43 pm

  Excellence: Good looks without being flashy. Superb power delivery, very smooth for a small displacement turbo. So quiet inside you forget its a convertible, comfy seats. Acceptable: "premium" sound system is mediocre at best. Tires break free pretty easily when accelerating from a stop into a turn, but with FWD kind of expected. Unacceptable: Spotty build quality results in buttons and interior surfaces paint rubbing off. Electrical gremlins are a constant threat. Complexity of common tasks like resetting oil life monitor is way more difficult than it has to be. Saab-ness: Saab is often different just for difference sake. Like the "night panel" function.

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  9-3 Linear Launch Pkg really shines - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By bond11 - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Bought a Laser Red Linear with Launch Package (17" wheels, CD Changer, Roof, Electric Seats, Auto), it is a beautiful car to look at when it nice and clean and with the 17" 5 spoke wheels it really looks sporty - great handling for reasonably priced car, upscale and euro looking interior, over 3500 miles on it so far no problems, minor rattle in the door which the dealer fixed right away, they installed the on-star a month after we took delivery and gave us 2 years free service, transaction was smooth and I pair 28K out the door We like the car just needs a little more HP Overall very pleased with our red hot 9-3