Overview & Reviews

Originally known as Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget (Svenska Aircraft Company), Saab is a Swedish company that began manufacturing automobiles in 1949. The company's early designs placed an emphasis on aerodynamics that is reflective of its history as an aircraft manufacturer.

The first production Saab, the 92, boasted a lower coefficient of drag than many modern cars. The 93, unveiled in 1955, was powered by a three-cylinder, 33-horsepower engine, and featured the distinctive fastback profile that made early Saabs among the most recognizable cars on the road. By the time the '50s drew to a close, Saab's lineup had grown to include the 95 wagon (capable of seating up to seven) and the 93 750 Gran Turismo, the automaker's first series-built sports car.

The marque started the '60s with the introduction of its successful Saab 96. With a production run of 20 years, this was the car that made Saab a recognized presence in the international market. The decade also saw the launch of the Saab Sport coupe. Scoring numerous wins on the rally circuit, the coupe marked Saab as a force to be reckoned with. The Sport's success on the track inspired a name change; it later came to be known as the Saab Monte Carlo 850. The Saab Sonett II sports car, with its body of fiberglass-reinforced plastic, also made its debut during the '60s, as did the Saab 99, which was the first Saab to feature the manufacturer's trademark wraparound windshield.

In 1973, Saab gave birth to the 99 Combi Coupe. The car came to define the Saab brand; with its hatchback and fold-down rear seat it offered remarkable utility. By the end of the decade, Saab had rolled out the 99 Turbo, which was a forerunner in harnessing turbo technology for use in production cars. The company also introduced the Saab 900, which held the distinction of being the first car to offer a cabin air filter.

During the 1980s, Saab cars (especially the Turbo models) gained American popularity as young urban professionals (yuppies) sought them out. The decade saw the launch of the 900 Turbo, the 900 Turbo Aero (the world's first car to offer a 16-valve turbo engine), the 900 convertible and the Saab 9000, a larger four-door car available in hatchback, and later on, sedan body styles.

In 1990, General Motors bought half of Saab's automotive division. The decade saw the launch of a revamped 900; the car offered a bevy of cutting-edge safety features, including three rear three-point seatbelts and rear side-impact protection. By the time the '90s drew to a close, Saab had also unveiled the 9-5, a larger, premium four-door sedan that essentially replaced the 9000. The 9-5 offered a host of new technologies such as ventilated seats. It was also the first to offer Saab's active head restraints, a system designed to prevent whiplash injuries.

By the 2000s, General Motors had bought the other half of Saab Automobile. Despite the brand's position on the leading edge of safety technology, Saab's popularity in the U.S. and around the world waned as its product portfolio grew increasingly stale and reliant on GM for parts, platforms and design. New models like the 9-2X and the 9-7X were based on platforms borrowed from other brands -- Subaru and Chevrolet, respectively. Meanwhile, the 9-5 soldiered on and the second-generation 9-3 ditched its quirky hatchback body style in favor of a mainstream sedan design. The hope was to make the 9-3 more appealing to American car buyers, but ultimately it only served to remove the car's unique personality.

In the midst of General Motors' financial difficulties and eventual bankruptcy, Saab was viewed as a disposable, troubled asset and essentially cast away. With the financial assistance of a European bank and the Swedish government, Swedish supercar maker Koenigsegg intended to purchase Saab with the promise of restructuring the brand and keeping production within Sweden. That deal fell through when Koenigsegg changed its mind about becoming involved with such a troubled company. Another niche-market supercar company, Spyker Cars, pursued the purchase of Saab. But that venture eventually failed as well and ultimately, at the end of 2011, Saab went into "wind-down" mode, filing for bankruptcy. In other words, Saab's future is still very much in limbo.

User Reviews:

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  My First Saab - 2008 Saab 9-3
  By DoninVirginia - October 25 - 2:00 am

  After researching manufacturers such as Audi and BMW, I chose the Saab Aero Convertible. My criteria included 1) fun to drive, 2) performance, 3) curb appeal, 4) amenities, and 5) price. The 2008 Aero Convertible had it all. The 6-speed manual is fun to drive, and performs like a champ. It has a great look, small on the outside, but comfortable on the inside. I love the Xenon lights and the Bose Stereo. 2008 was the right price point. And this vehicle, steel gray with black top, had been meticulously maintained, with only minor wear noted. The key fob is also really cool. Although the interior materials may not be up to others, it is not worthy of the criticims.

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  Great Car-But has problems. - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By danesh - October 25 - 12:03 am

  I have always been drawn to the unique style of Saab cars, so when the lease on my 9-5 2.3t ran out I fell in love with the aero after just one test drive. The car is zippy, handles very well, and has all the creature comforts anybody would need. Unfortunately I have had to spend a lot of money on this car despite that fact that it is still under warranty. For starters the 3 spoke wheels get bent very easily causing the car to wobble at speeds of over 70mph, the light bulbs need constant replacement, and the battery is very unreliable. If you buy this car make sure you have the warranty otherwise it is going to cost you a lot to keep around. A nice alternative to your run of the mill car.

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  Well rounded tourer - 2006 Saab 9-3
  By Paul Guinnessy - October 24 - 1:13 pm

  The 9-3 sportcombi is an excellent tourer that keeps the driver well connected to the road without fatigue. The seats are great, the safety features are best in class, and the car is nimble in traffic. Currently averaging 26 mpg in city/highway driving. The interior could be improved, which apparently happened with the later versions of the car. The car also feels more balanced that the sedan version, because of the better weight ratio (52/48 instead of 60/40 in the sedan). This has an impact on the feel of the car and how the suspension performs. The reliability has been rock solid since we leased it. Its very likely we will keep the car when the lease is up.

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  Su-baab - 2005 Saab 9-2X
  By ScottB - October 23 - 1:50 pm

  I would have bought the Impreza wagon but, the seats were too narrow. However, the Saab Leather seats are slightly wider, much more comfortable. What astounds me about this car is the fuel mileage. I drive pretty quickly in town, and get 29-30. On the highway, I get up to 34 mpg. Wow.

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  Design Perfection - Handles like new - 2002 Saab 9-3
  By SaabMe - October 23 - 7:40 am

  Just purchased a mint condition used 2002 9-3SE. This is an amazing car. While it is small and handles nimbly it has generous room for 4 plus the huge hatch area. Mileage so far has been mid-30s mpg. Amazing that they could build a fast and efficient car 8 years ago. At 205 hp this car has as almost the same power as my 2001 Boxster.

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  Underappreciated Vehicle - 2000 Saab 9-5
  By checito28 - October 21 - 2:00 am

  When I was looking for a new used car, I wanted it to be fun to drive, reliable, and also luxurious. I also wanted it to be unique. This car fits the bill, I have the manual trans and it is great! The turbo lag is non- existent (perhaps someone with more skill notices a turbo lag) it looks great, its comfortable for 4 people (including rear heated seats). My only complaint is with the cupholders - although everyone talks about how cool the folding cupholder is, it only holds standard sizes and sometimes its difficult to get the can out.

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  Great Fun - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By saabhead - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Have nothing but praise for this car. It is great fun to drive

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  We love it!! - 1999 Saab 9-5
  By Woodster - October 20 - 10:00 am

  When our 91 Saab 900 bit the dust, we were very happy to find this beautiful 95 wagon. We are fans of the Saab design style, so many of the comon complaints (center ignition) are lost on us. The car is deceptively smooth driving, but can really move when pushed hard, and can handle swift manuevering with ease. I cant tell you how many times Ive "accidently" smoked the tires pulling away from a stop lioght, and with a 4 cyl no less. Overall very pleased.

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  Excellent car, great time to buy! - 2008 Saab 9-5
  By Ed T - October 17 - 9:26 pm

  I am extremely pleased with my new 2008 Saab 9-5. With all of the rebates that GM is currently offering on new 2008s and a little negotiation, I was able to snag mine for under $24k, which is a STEAL for a car like this. After driving this car for a month, I couldnt be happier. The 260hp turbo engine makes highway driving a blast, and the car handles very nicely in town. I can understand the harsh reviews given a $40k msrp and the quality of interior materials for a car in this price range, but for $24k I think youd be hard-pressed to find fault.

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  Its truly great! - 2003 Saab 9-3
  By AME - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Its been a year Ive had the car and I love it now as much as day 1-- very fun to drive! Im 64", 240 pounds and have chronic low and mid-back pain and one of the few seats in the world that gives me great relief is this Saabs driver seat-- it is incredibly comfortable. the room inside is great including trunk, but it is still very easy to park in the city. I love the ergonomics, love the steering wheel controls, I believe handles BETTER than 3 series Beamer and sports Lexus (it is very nimble/responsive), great breaking, love the chilled front passenger storage, and very solid acceleration.