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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  Love it! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Travis Cole - June 5 - 5:43 pm

  I purchased my Saab used, Ive had a couple issues but I still love the car. It has enough get up and go, and to me is just a thrill to drive! The only real problem Ive had with the car is on 2 occasions there was a computer issue, the computer wasnt telling the car to shift gears basically. The first time this happened it fixed itself after I restarted the car a few times. The second time I had to have the computer reset at the dealership ($100) and they put in all the updated software. I get tons of compliments on the car, and I get excited to drive it every time I get behind the wheel!

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  Excellent car - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By Steve - June 4 - 8:16 pm

  I love this car. Nothing but minor maintenance. Getting ready to do timing chain, but only as preventive maintenance.

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  Motorcycle alternative - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By Mid life crisis car - June 1 - 2:36 am

  I bought my 99 Saab convertible as a second car. I brought it to a SAAB only local service shop that has taken care of all the basics. Now, I get to drive. I love this car. It has great pick up, is very comfortable, and is lots of fun. Im not sure about other guys, but this is a great alternative to a motorcycle for me. (I tend to not pay attention when I drive!). Yes, the 9-3 has quirks and leaks, etc. But I am so tired of seeing stupid expensive 323s on the road... and this car is perfect for me.

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  Great car, especially for the price - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By 2nd Saab - May 31 - 11:03 pm

  Looked at the A4, S60R and TL before buying the Aero. Traded an older A4 Avant (2000). Turbo is a little flat in top gear passing, but I believe thats somewhat common in 6sp with turbo motors. Lag off the line is there, but minimal, then picks up much quicker than the new A4 turbos (even the Saab 2.0T seemed to have better acceleration than the A4 2.0T, though the Audi is smoother). Excellent on the highway, fun on backroads (excellent powerband from around 1800rpm on), with an easier clutch than on the Audis (both old and new). The Aeros spoiler is VERY low to the ground. Seats are comfortable, but interior controls/surfaces feel very cheap.

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  Do research before you buy one! - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Taylor Gray - May 30 - 8:53 am

  Loved the car. Had every option that cars do now except nav system. Even had 6-speed manual! Had MANY problems. It was always driven on the highway and taken care of so it was about the quality of the materials. I had to replace lower left ball joint, both struts (and mounts), springs, the entire car computer, rain sensor, radio, seatbelt, & ignition. Dont get me wrong the car was a great car but I am a college student and it was difficult to pay for repairs. I suggest not buying one unless you plan to have repair bills & you KNOW you CAN pay them. Saabs going out of business & the company is only required to make parts 10 years after the car was made. Plan on not finding any parts by 13.

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  Love my Saab - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By skm95t - May 29 - 10:53 am

  Ive had this a week and our family loves our Saab. My 4 yr old always ask "Can we ride in the red car with the top down". The car gets pretty good gas mileage, its quick and agile around town and on the highway. The 2.0T is more than enough power. The back seat is big enough to put our car seat in backwards, and our 4 yr old has plenty of room for many years. Adults can easily sit back there. The power roof works great. The stereo, A/C, and all the other instruments are easy to use.

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  2000 Saab 9-3 Hatchback Auto - 2000 Saab 9-3
  By myhooptie - May 25 - 5:13 pm

  Over all the car was great for what I needed it for. Had a lot of problems with the front wheel hub and bearing assembly. I had to replace the same wheel hub twice in less than 10,000 miles. I am pretty sure that all of them were going bad and i only had 160000 miles on it and the fuel pump went out on me. I also had to change out the radiator before 150000 mile. There was a problem with the driver seatbelt which made me want to get rid of it. I thought that because it was not american built that i would get at least 200000 miles out of it. Not even close. This car was not built for car seats at all. My kid tried to put his car seat up front

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  Brakes!!!!!!!! - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Jurynotout - May 24 - 10:00 am

  I definitely enjoy driving this car, until I have to slow down or stop it. The brakes have been horrible from day one. They have "roared" and/or "squeaked" since I purchased the car. It is has been in the shop three times already. Also, the radio sometimes just goes out after starting my car. Only a high pitch sound remains. Overall: If they get the brakes working properly then I will like it. Currently, not so impressed with this car! Thinking I should have went with the BMW or Lexus.

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  Very Happy - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By luvmysaab - May 24 - 10:00 am

  Bought a 9-3 two months ago on a semi- whim (I was originally going for an SUV) and am so glad I did. Went to the dealer for fun and was blown away by the looks (both interior and exterior) of the Saab - was so much more attracted to it than the A4, 3-series, TSX, etc. Test drove both linear and arc, the latter had noticably better power. Pretty much just feel in love with it.

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  Best Entry-Level Car for the Money - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By Seattle Saabster - May 24 - 8:03 am

  I was looking for a car that was sporty, reliable, and had good gas mileage for my 40 mile r/t commute. I considered several cars at the <$30K price range, but was attracted to Saabs rebate incentive and my having owned Saabs for the past 20+ years. For the price, you cant get a better entry-level luxury car that equals the 9-3 SportCombi in performance, fuel econonmy, safety, standard features (leather, etc.) and practicality (cargo room, etc.). The SportCombi does not disappoint. The 6-spd manual (hard to find) is fun to drive, and Ive been impressed with the 33 mpg Im receiving on the highway.