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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  Oh my - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By johnstone48 - August 4 - 11:56 pm

  Good looking. Nice lines. Horrible electrical system. Just had to get seatbelt replaced for $675. Are you kidding me? My first and last Saab. Too many bothersome electrical problems such as sunroof, saab infotainment, security system, etc. Its a shame because its a great looking car but the little issues keep me from coming back.

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  hmo dentist wifes - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By calhoun - July 30 - 10:00 am

  Once you get used to it you realize it is not pleasant driving as there is no ergonomic considerations for the driver. The seat is hard and one must contort to press the gas pedal, with the drivers seat aimed at the left fron wheel and the gas pedal crammed against the transmission tunnel. oh yes, the seat is hard and doesnt soften any with use. In acceleration the tires break loose from the pavement due to undersized rims. In cornering... you think of a ride at Six Flags. The stock sound system is just adequate. First gear is too short and over revs, once the turbo lag kicks in.

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  First Time Saab Owner - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Deron - July 25 - 4:13 pm

  Waited a year for the V6 and so glad I did!! Power on demand, just press the gas and you are gone. Exterior styling is very sporty yet classy. Love the look of the Aero so much. Interior is first rate also. No cheap materials or cheap looking plastic. The leather seats are a dream! Driving is light on the steering, yet you feel the road. Steering response is quick and provides enough feedback without feeling it. Love the dash and the layout. DVD navigation is right on! Not a harsh ride at all and could actually be a bit tighter I think. Overall a refined ride, great looks, and excellent feel but has a wolf under the hood! Test drove a 06 BMW 330 and chose the Saab... nuff said!

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  Dont even think about it - 2000 Saab 9-3
  By acr - July 24 - 2:36 am

  I have owned my 2000 SE Turbo SAAB for a little over 1 yr. Over this year I have put over $3000 into it. After purchasing it the di-cassette went out, costing $700. I have had numerous oil pumps and hoses replaced each time to the shop it is $300. Then my AC compressor went out, causing the Reciever/Dryer to go out. This is $1500 to fix. Had the car back for 15 minutes and the serpentine belt went out. Over all the car has been in the shop 5 times in a year. I will be selling the car as soon as I get it out of the shop. It gets better....the part I need (receiever/dryer) is on national back order for 6 months. RED FLAG.

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  Jet Performance - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Mark Bear - July 23 - 12:06 pm

  New owners of this vehicle will find themselves feeling as though they are in the cockpit of an airplane. One step on the pedal will then convince them as they find the car responding to twists and turns in reponsive fashion. The well appointed amenities inside the car remind the driver that all of his or her hard work has finally paid off. The Saab 9-3 is truly a symbol of status with its elegant curves and pampering aesthetics. Drivers finding themselves in situations requiring speed and response will have no regrets that they have purchased the car of their dreams. General Motors has built a car that allows drivers to feel as though they were flying without ever leaving the ground.

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  Fine Saab Properly Maintained - 2000 Saab 9-3
  By SPKorn - July 23 - 4:56 am

  Ive owned this Saab 9-3 since new. It has been trouble-free...and more trouble-free than our Acura. Have performed all factory maintenance and 3 oil changes a year. Great mileage with manual trans, and heated fabric seats is unique. Marvelous in snow. Timeless hatchback styling. Would buy again, but concerned whether Saab will be around. Too bad.

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  Great car - 2005 Saab 9-3
  By Oblaw - July 21 - 8:40 am

  The convertible has great gas mileage for the power. It handles very well and has had no reason for service beyond routine maintenance.

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  DRIVER SIDE MIRROR EXPLODED - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By JenniferJimenez - July 20 - 6:23 am

  I was driving vehicle hit bump and turned black. Left brake light indactor states is inop. But brake light operates.

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  I Love This Car!!! - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Lisa P. - July 15 - 10:00 am

  Having owned several convertibles in my past, I was eager to step up to more luxurious appointments and amenities with my latest purchase. I was definitely in awe once I test drove (and eventually bought) the new Saab 9-3 Convertible. Besides gorgeous styling and numerous features (the dual leather interior, heated seats, and 13-speaker stereo system are among my favorites), the powerful performance of the Turbo engine makes it a force to be reckoned with! I have yet to meet a car at the intersection that can accelerate quicker than my new Saab! The smooth ride and tight handling are also superb! Id definitely recommend it to others.

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  Fun to Drive Again - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By NJ Dad - July 12 - 2:00 am

  The Saab 9-3 is sporty and fun to drive, at a price that is affordable, even in comparison with some of the more run-of-the-mill sedans. I must admit I was concerned about getting a 4 cylinder car, but the turbo seems to give the car more acceleration power than my 6 cylinder car had.