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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  Saab 93...With GM Warranty - 2009 Saab 9-3
  By rtp_owner - August 21 - 12:00 pm

  First (and Im guessing last SAAB). Very happy with this car. Purchased a "stripped down" model at the going out of business sale - did not get the BIG deals that others claimed to have gotten, but I did get a 0.0% loan!! 6 speed manual - overall car is very good. Its comfortable and good on long trips. I average 30 MPG COMBINED in the real world - pretty psyched about that - I will generally be in the high 30s on the highway. Thats great mileage. I dont play boy racer, and generally only go about 5 MPS above posted limits on the highway which probably helps my mileage. Back seat is tight. Fold down rear seats nice. Rear air vents are nice. GM warranty is nice.

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  Love My First Ever SAAB - 2011 Saab 9-3
  By jbrtp - August 18 - 2:16 am

  Disagree with reviewers - know the new one is coming but a great deal with 0.0 financing sold me. First interior - yep - radio is a generation old and was plucked from the Suburban but sound quality is good and there is a jack. No gaps in my interior - all tolerances are close and materials are good quality. Car is quick with little torque steer - steering is spot on and ride is comfortable. Brakes are superb. Gas mileage is GREAT much better than expected. I have some trips with 35+ on the highway. Would have liked power seats on the passenger side. Bluetooth is basic but works well with android phone. Headlights are good as well. Manual 6 speed can be a little notchy.

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  Great handling - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Avery - August 18 - 2:00 am

  Ive put a total of about 700 miles on this model. So far I can say the handling is excellent. The turbo is fun and zesty, really pulls an even amount of power from the small engine and makes it feel like a V6.

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  Saab did real good! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Detroit Diesel - August 18 - 2:00 am

  This car is great! Second Saab I have owned and this car kills the hatchback in every single category. smooth ride, handles nice, looks better than a BMW. This is the best new car you can buy for 30k. I looked at 3 series, a4, volvo, and a loaded Saab is the way to go.

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  20 years and getting better - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By normb359 - August 13 - 12:13 am

  This is my 5th Saab. I just have driven nothing but saabs since 1980. This car is by far the best yet. I am getting 30 mpg on hte highway and the preformance is great. Remembering this is a midsize car and not a sports car. Drives and handles very well.

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  Saab Story - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By mtnbound - August 10 - 4:33 pm

  I purchased this car used, in 2002 & I drive Orange County Ca for Sales. Vehicle performs as a Saab should, however I am disappointed by maintenance. Replaced all 4 power windows within the first year, due to a plastic connector breaking, that has no replacement part available At $500/window, not good. SID display replaced in "04. Switched to synthetic oil in "04, seems to start better, run quieter, did not help mileage (24-26) on average. Also had to replace radiator in vehicle in december of 2005. Replaced struts and disc brake rotors, but that is expected with a car of this age. Braking and handling excellent. Love the climate control, but had to replace compressor.

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  Mixed Feelings - Saab Enthusiast - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By TrollHattanINsf - August 10 - 10:40 am

  While I am a SAAB enthusiast, I have been less than enthusiastic with this car. When purchased, the vehicle was in good condition and looked over in Denver. However, within months I was repairing. Some cosmetic - totally my prerogative, and others necessary. Heres the necessaries: 1. Fog lamps cracked on the highway - design flaw of glass with no protection. These are $200/ea 2. Water Pump + hosing 3. Serpentine belts 4. Multiple headlamp halogens & multiple brake pad sets (I drive 5600/yr) 5. Engine Mts., Trans. Mounts 6. Front Wheel Bearings (under 70K) 7. Window motors + mechanism 8. Hydraulics for the top 9. SID re-manufactured 10. Mass Airflow meter It feels like a $$ pit.

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  Back to Saab - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By SAAB 4 Life - August 8 - 8:50 pm

  This is a fantastic car. As a owner of 2000 Saab (that I still have) I wanted to purchase another one just like it. After making a mistake and buying a VW Jetta 2.0 turbo that burns oil (look up vw oil consumption on any search engine) I went to a fantastic dealership in Florida (jacksonville) and picked up my Laser Red 93. I am getting 33 mpg with 4 people and a trunk full of luggage running 80+. Cant say enough about this car. Its just like the old one fast, reliable, smooth. I could go on and on.

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  My fifth saab - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Brannen - August 8 - 6:50 pm

  Fast for a Saab new 6 speed auto is great. New duel exhaust sounds good. Need to see 1/4 mile time for this car with normal test temps not in the middle of a desert like Car and Driver tested this car two mo ago and gave a very poor review. This is my 5th Saab and my third Aero. Drive it and you will buy it! When the dealer delivers the car, do not use harsh wheel cleaner on Wheels as this discolors the break calipers. D

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  No Saab story - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By kirbster - August 8 - 4:46 am

  I purchased a new Saab 9-3 recently and all I can say is, why didnt I buy one of these along time ago. This car is everything it says it is and more. I drive 35 miles to and from work each day. At 75 mph, I get 34 mpg at 80 mph I get 32 mpg. I tried to do 70 mph but just couldnt, it was just too much fun going faster. The turbo acceleration is a blast. Going from 60 to 100 only takes about 5 seconds. As you can tell, Im in love with this car. Just drive one.