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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  What a terrific car! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By kwelch01 - June 16 - 10:00 am

  If you can be open minded enough to embrace the uniqueness and character of this car you will truly be astounded at what a wonderful automobile it is. I have always been a fan of Saab yet until now was never fond enough of the product to purchase one for myself. I have never been so happy with a car. With enough time spent, the car just makes sense. Everything is in the correct place. Everything is well though out. The attention to detail, while simple is astounding. The lines are clean and uncluttered. I can honestly say that I have never driven a car that gets so much attention and inquiries.

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  Best Car Ive Owned So Far! - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By luxman - June 14 - 11:26 am

  I have wanted a Saab 9-3 for a long time so I looked at one last year, but I figured they were going to restyle them soon, so I waited. Im glad I did, because the new one looks AWESOME! I got a silver one with all the options. Tan leather, wood trim, heated seats, 6 cd player, fog lights, and power seats. I like the headlights a lot too. they look cool driving at night. Standard satellite radio and onstar is nice too. This thing handles like a dream too. I have the automatic with tiptronic, and it is fun to drive it in tiptronic mode. If you want a high quality, sporty car for under $45,000, you MUST get this car!

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  Lots for the Money - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By newsaabdriver - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Leased the ARC model after looking at the Acura TSX and others. Saab is a ton of car for the money. Acura was too bland. The Saab blows the Acura and BMW away in driver information and features. Saabs 210 hp and 221 lb/ft torque make the car feel more like 250hp b/c turbo acceleration. Lag is noticable but present only under 2000rpm, above 2K rpm it is strong. Ours is a week old and Onstar registration of the car is the only issue. Buy an Arc rather than a loaded Linear (cheaper that way). Dealer experience was good and I expect more of the same in the future - all service covered is a plus (not so with Acura).

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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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  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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  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.

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  great car - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By tboccell - May 19 - 3:53 am

  So far, a great car. Had one recall with with the hand brake, but the dealership brought out a tow truck and fixed the problem for free. The turbo is great... love the turbo meter. Comfortable car for its small size. We sometimes use the car to fit the entire family of five... but beyond local commutes, stick with a large sedan or SUV, if you can afford the gas. The butterfly cup holder is pretty cool and 100x more useful then the one in my 2001 540i. The car is sporty, fun, and has never spent more then the alloted time at the dealership. Great car!

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  Best Car on the Road - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By heystupid - May 15 - 2:00 am

  Nothing comes close. Anyone who complains about this car has neither driven it nor seen it.

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  93 converitble - 1999 Saab 9-3
  By riderwood - May 10 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car. Fun to drive and has enough pickup in the sport mode.