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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  I "heart" my Saab - 2004 Saab 9-3
  By Siona - August 18 - 10:00 am

  I love my Saab! This is my first new car, even though my family and I have been driving Saabs since the 80s. My Aunt still has her 1988 Saab. I had previously had a 1999 SE Convertible, which I bought used. Living in Chicago I was concerned about the snow. It went right through my unplowed parking lot all through winter! My new Saab is amazing. The updated styling and the new computer display on the dash. I believe I am racing around with 210 hp. The car feels and looks high end. With the 4 cyl engine, I save on gas. The dealership had a neighborhood feel to it. I worked with a female saleperson, and she made me feel very comfortable about the whole process.

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  OK so far on 2003 rag top - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By Stafford VA - August 18 - 10:00 am

  Not as good on gas mileage as I had hoped. Does much better on extended trip. Can use mid-level gas with no problem--regular might be OK too, but I havent tried it. Recommend the leather arm rest--gave it to me at purchase. Paid $32,400 in October, 2003. Car does shake over any type of rough road--but has good pick up and excellent braking. The hand brake is the strongest I have ever experienced. The car will not move when it is engaged. Top works well--no leaks.

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  Back to Saab - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Ted Pusey - August 17 - 11:16 pm

  This is my first Saab since my I owned a 1984 900 Turbo and I can only say theyve gotten better. I traded-in a Mini Cooper S for my 9-3 SportCombi Aero and my new Saab is more fun to drive. The performance of the new 2.8L V-6 is all I could ever want. This car measures and stacks up favorably with the competition at much less cost

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  High Value Alternative - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By IL Owner - August 17 - 3:50 am

  Recently bought the car, with just a couple hundred miles in, I really like it. Low torque steer, good cornering stability, quiet ride, and decent economy.

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  Disappointing - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By psbob - August 17 - 2:26 am

  I have had three SAABs and am currently still driving my 89 900S. What an utter disappointment. I know on paper this car is much better than previous models. Sitting down in the car, my first impression was that I had lost my best friend. The car has none of the charm that my other SAABs have had. It felt like a gussied up cavalier. None of the materials in the car seemed first rate. With the current financial problems (and I see why, it doesnt feel like a SAAB SAAB) coupled with the not so nice feel of the car, guess I wont be bringing home the next one. I drove the new S60 and it felt more like a SAAB than this car.

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  2007 anniversary edition - 2007 Saab 9-3
  By yellow_dog - August 15 - 2:30 pm

  Bought the car a few weeks ago with 22K miles on it with 100K CPO warranty. Excellent value given the purchase price, the warranty, the low miles and the fact that it is loaded with options. The anniversary edition is fully loaded and handles well, surprising picking and response for a 4 cyl. I came very close to purchasing the MB 280 instead of this, so glad that I didnt. This car has personality. Gets 32 MPG on the highway with regular gas.

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  2001 9-3 2.0 turbo 4 dr base model - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By JT - August 12 - 3:16 pm

  Mine has 72500 km/45000 miles. Recently needed almost CDN$900 in front suspension work. Recent problems led to software upgrade for throttle body, dealer warns if problem recurs, vehicle will need new throttle body (cost over CDN$1000 at dealer pricing). Ignition Discharge Module replaced on recall. Various valves and hoses replaced. An oxygen sensor failed around 40000 km. Drivers door handle mechanism failed twice. Interior squeaks. Some pixels no longer light on information display. One headlight wiper motor failed. Blower motor for heater replaced. Received letter from Saab advising 8 year warranty coverage for engine failure due to oil sludge provided certain conditions are met.

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  all around awesome - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By lerxst - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Bought w/200 miles on it. Fun to drive, amazing acceleration, 30 mpg on highway, to me it looks sharp and has very nice classy lines, one of the most unique cars, costs less than cars that people think are better/faster. The only sub-par facet of this car was the suspension. i paid 300$ or so for braces etc. and installed myself, so now the suspension is great, and for cheap money!!! oh yeah, it carries a lot of stuff and people, and i have only seen 5-6 other viggens and i am on the road a lot. it has been problem -free and i am always excited to driver her.

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  More Bang for Your Buck - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By JD - August 10 - 1:40 am

  My wife and I drive a BMW 325Ci an Audi A4 Quattro and recently leased a 2006 Saab 9-3 Aero (manual). This car is awesome, easily the best of the bunch and the others are pretty good. The Saab offers better performance, more interior comfort and space and respectable gas mileage (28.5 mpg on a recent highway trip). The best features of the car are the V-6 engine and the upgraded seats that the Aero model offers. The engineers who put the engine together have created one of the most useable and powerful engines I have ever driven. In particular on two lane highways you can pass quickly and in confidence.

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  Jury is still out - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By prnitz - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I have had his Saab about a month. My last car was a 1999 Toyota Solara coupe. Believe it or not, the Saab after a few years of depreciation was much more affordable than the Solara convertible. Compared to my Solara SE V6 the Saab is smaller, handles bumpy roads worse, has a funky interior lay out, and will not hold its value as well as a Toyota, BMW or Mercedes. On the plus side, it gets great gas mileage (35 on the highway, 30 around town), has great acceleration from the 4 cyl turbo, and has distinctive looks. I am going to like this car if it does not break. If it does, and I find it hard and expensive to fix, I am back to a Toyota.