Overview & Reviews

The base convertible has been dropped for this year while all other models get two new colors. The OnStar telematics system and traction control are now standard.

• Comfy interior, versatile hatchback model, torquey turbo motor, quirky personality.

• Controls not always intuitive, offbeat image, severe torque steer in SE and Viggen models.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 66.00

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  Fun and Safe - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By none - December 16 - 5:06 am

  I test drove this car and the Volvo S60 and the 9-3 won for overall driving experience. I have 88k miles on it and it has never let me down. I was hoping to drive this car for many many more miles but I was just in a major accident so it may be totalled. The good news is that I and my infant son were not harmed at all despite being hit at over 30mph.The frame took the impact as it should and in a lesser car we could have been seriously injured. I wont be looking at another Saab mainly because of design changes and different needs but I loved this car and am very thankful that we had it. The brakes are excellent and itis fun to drive in addition to being one of the safest cars on the road.

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  Love the car - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By dstan02 - October 14 - 4:52 pm

  I am the original owner. The car now has 132000 miles on it. Two years ago, in the winter, I drove it ALONE 4545 miles from Charlotte NC to Anchorage Alaska and that includes driving the Alcan Highway and then repeating the journey back home 6 months later. I now have driven it 2768 miles across country to Portland. This car never even "burped". I love this car. If I had any complaint, it would be the SIDs pixels going out.

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  9-3 Viggen - Wolf in Sheeps Clothing - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By dwatech - October 10 - 1:06 pm

  This is my second Saab. My 99 9-5 was comfortable luxury at a great (used) price. The Viggen has all the comfort and luxury and outstanding performance too. The turbo kick at almost any speed is exhilirating. Torque steer is an issue, but there are aftermarket cures for that. Exterior look of the car is very "euro" and hatchback yields excellent cargo capability. Interior is comfortable, lack of cupholders just emphasizes that you should be driving the car when you are in it, not drinking (or talking on the phone). No automatic available anyway, so keep your hands free for driving! Viggens have a loyal following too, so expect used prices to be pretty stable.

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  Perfect more than 2 years - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By Sviden - September 9 - 10:00 am

  I own this SAAB for more than 2 years and so far the reliability of the car was PERFECT without a single fix for more than a 2 year. The ride and Handling is outstanding especially the low RPM High Torque which kicks at his Maximum in as low as 1900 RPM!!! High Speed handling is also fantastic. Dont need to mention the breathtaking Stereo which is old Saab tradition. There are a lot other features which I like. To make the story short - This is one Fantastic Car.

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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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  Been a good car... - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By Jony T Bone - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I just rolled 30k miles and I still love this car...Ive swapped out the stock springs with some B&G and installed the sport exhaust...The springs really toned down both body roll and the way the car reacts during acceleration...You know the push, pull sway...Im sure it has a name... A few more mods and Ill be screaming when Im on the gas (from 185 to almost 250hp/300+flbs)...And getting 30+ mpg on the highway...Crazy... I have to agree with a bunch of the

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  Love this car! - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By Jamie Jennings - March 18 - 6:26 am

  So much fun to drive. Reliable, no significant issues, even with car over 100k miles!

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  Saabs Are Awesome - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By yertle - February 27 - 2:00 am

  Saabs are very good cars and are very fast. They are also very comfortable too.

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  GM cant build Saab - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By Glickchick - December 9 - 2:00 am

  This is the second Saab I have leased. The difference between the last car and this one appears to be that GM has taken over production. It is appointed only slightly better than a Chevy and is considerably less reliable and performance-oriented than my last Saab. Of specific concern is the suspension; it is too low and the car is prone to flat tires and suspension problems.

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  Lots of Miles; Lots of Fun! - 2001 Saab 9-3
  By zztopgun - December 7 - 2:00 am

  This Saab 9-3 is a solidly built quality vehicle. The handling is responsive and the styling exceeded my expectations.