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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  Great vehicle - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By jct - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Outstanding driving car and at the price unbeatable! Six speed is the way to go (very smooth shifting), great pickup and impressive passing zone.

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  Great choice - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Socker - October 30 - 6:33 pm

  Was looking at BMW 3-series when I came across the new 9-3 aero...so glad I did! Amazing car to drive...so smooth and quiet on the road, with plenty of space inside for hauling people and things. Ive always had a liking of "unique" cars, and the Saab 9-3 is definitely a unique car. Its all the luxury and performance of a BMW or Audi, at a slightly lower price, and you can bet you wont see another one at every stop light!

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  Love the Car, Hate the Corporation - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By AJ in California - October 24 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Saab and I love the car -- especially the convertible which is sooo much fun to drive with the top down. Only drawback to owning the car: dealing with Saab Corporation! The car may have alot of "soul" but Saab Corporation clearly does NOT given my experience. This is one second time Saab owner who still loves Saab cars but am sorely disappointed by the company who clearly operates on "rules and regulations" (their exact words to me on the phone). Obviously, "profit" and not customer satisfaction reigns surpreme at Saab Corporation!

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  Aero Pleasure - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By AERO PLEASURE - October 23 - 3:10 pm

  I compared many cars before ultimately deciding on the 9-3 Aero V6. It would have cost me $5,000 more to buy a comparable car from another manufacturer. I was extremely pleased with the overall value I achieved, having purchased every available option and not breaking the $40K barrier. I have to say, the audio quality of the 300 watt stereo is disappointing & the navigation system is extremely poor! The navigation unit in a Honda Civic is far better! I understand that both the stereo and the navigation have been improved and this makes me wish I had waited to buy the 2007 model. I had a problem with the coolant system and after 6 service trips, I think it has finally been fixed!

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  I love my Saab - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By John - October 23 - 6:43 am

  Saabs get a bad rap for their interiors. I love the interior of mine. In my opinion the scandinavian/cockpit inspired styling beats BMW, Acura, and Audi. I get a zen like tranquility sitting in it. The outside styling is great too.

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  Saabs Back! - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Greg Waldron - October 19 - 2:00 am

  A very quick and responsive car - great fun to drive. Drives more like an Audi or BMW than a Saab - its completely lost that old "rubbery, tippy" sensation. Feels a bit "tinny" compared to the Germans, though. Perhaps this is a result of being built on GMs new "world car" platform. The engine is pure Saab Turbo - a great motor! Saab are closing the performance sedan gap with the Germans - they are closing in on best-in-class with this model and with the current price differential against the the Audi A4 3.0 and BMW 330 its a good value.

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  Worst Car Ever Owned - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By cdukes1984 - October 18 - 10:10 am

  Please dont buy one of these cars!! It looks great and performs like a Saab should but something is always broken. Transmission and radiator went out @ 43k and now the check engine light is on @ 46k ($900 repair). I worry about if I will make it to work everyday.

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  Best Car I Ever Owned - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By Dian - October 16 - 4:46 am

  This vehicle is by far the best Ive ever owned. The only things that could top it would be if it had the V6 turbo engine. It is not as common as the BMW which every other person seems to drive here, so you are more unique when on the road. Unfortunately for me, I have to sell it as I am moving overseas and left hand drive cars are not allowed there. When I return, I will pick up the latest model via the European Delivery Program so I can once again enjoy the thrill of the Saab Aero convertible. It is great to drive.

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  2002 SAAB 9-3 - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By elle1 - October 8 - 10:00 am

  A good, reliable car all around. However, a very creaky, noisy car. It sounds like Im driving a taxi cab. Lots of rattles. Had to take the car in to the dealership several times to fix a rattle in the back seat. Finally they were able to fix it after the third try. Turned out it was a bolt that the factory hadnt tightened. Performance wise its been great. However, already had to replace my breaks two years into my lease. Love the Turbo button. I had a Cadillac before and the Saab, though premium, definitely doesnt have the bells and whistles the Cadillac had.

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  Great convertible - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Rich - September 30 - 12:03 am

  We bought our 93 2.0 turbo 4 cyl standard transmission convertible used with 33,000 miles 2 months ago. The previous owner kept it in excellent condition and I think we got a terrific price at less than 1/2 of its original price. The car is solid, the doors are heavy, outside noise is minimal and the road noise is less than our Volvo S60. The stick shift is smooth and the steering tracks very tight with minimal lean in the turns. The top is a marvel to watch and is water tight while driving. The trunk space is flexible so if you need more space put up the top. I am 62" and I can fit in the back seat fine. The seats are more comfortable than our previous Mercedes.