Saab 9-3 lets drivers experience the excitement of turbocharged front-wheel drive, but helps them manage it with traction control and sophisticated engine management. It's offered in three-door, five-door, and convertible models.
Saab cars have been lauded for their innovation ever since the first Saab 92 was unveiled in 1947. Designed by aircraft engineers, they quickly attracted attention with their aerodynamic styling. Some consider them quirky. This latest generation of Saabs is far more mainstream than Saabs of past, but it preserves that special character that makes a Saab. The ignition key is still mounted on the center console; a modern version of the Black Panel instrument cluster remains; and innovative solutions to mirrors and the ventilation system can be found on the 9-3. The name, 9-3 (pronounced "nine-three"), traces its roots to Saab's aviation heritage. The 9-3 is the successor to the long-lived Saab 900, a car that practically became a legend among its followers for its turbocharger and front-wheel drive.
Saab 9-3 is available in three body styles: a three-door hatchback, a five-door hatchback, and a two-door convertible.
Three different engines are available, all turbocharged four-cylinder engines. 9-3 comes standard with a 185-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. SE models come with a 205-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. Viggen models come with a 230-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter engine.
Base 3-door ($26,495) and 5-door ($26,995) models comes standard with velour upholstery. SE 5-door ($32,595) and convertible ($39,995) models come with leather seating surfaces. A Leather Package ($1350) is available as an option on base and Viggen models. Powerful Viggen models are available in 3-door ($37,995), 5-door ($37,995), and convertible ($44,995) styles.
The 9-3 styling evolved from the Saab 900. In keeping with Saab's aerospace heritage, the most notable styling cue on the 9-3 is its wing-shaped center profile. A front spoiler with low air intakes, integrated fog and cornering lamps, and color-keyed bumpers add to the sporty look.
From behind, the 9-3 resembles the 900, but there are subtle changes. The license plate is now placed squarely between the taillights, and the center taillight is mounted higher and uses LEDs for enhanced visibility. The tailgate yawns wide to make it easier to load and unload the hatchbacks. Whether packing for a cross-country trip or simply hauling a week's worth of groceries, it's easy to appreciate the cavernous cargo hold. Fold down the split rear seat and a nearly 50 cubic feet of storage space is revealed. There's also a rear-seat pass-through for carrying skis and other long objects.
Saab comes with good seats. The backrests in the 9-3 are well contoured for side support, and there's plenty of thigh support for long trips. Velour and leather upholstery are available.
True to Saab tradition, the dominant interior hue remains black. Saab stylists believe black makes it easier to find buttons and other controls.
Saab upgraded door and window seals on the 9-3, but it's still not quite as quiet as some of the other vehicles in its class.
The climate control system delivers plenty of heat with good defrost distribution. Saab has improved its air conditioning system, and this one works well. Vent knobs look and work great.
Saab's Night Panel display, inspired by its aircraft design, improves night vision by allowing the driver to reduce the distracting light coming from the instruments. Even the most well-designed instrument panel can become harsh and distracting on long, dark nights of driving. Simply press a button to black out everything except the speedometer. If there's a problem, such as low coolant or fuel, a warning light will automatically pop on.
Saab has traditionally emphasized both active and passive safety features, and the 9-3 interior won't disappoint those who consider safety a key attribute. Dual front airbags are complemented by side-impact airbags. But the most innovative feature is the Saab Active Head Restraint system. In a rear impact, the headrests swing forward just enough to catch and cradle your cranium, reducing the odds of whiplash and other head and neck injuries.
