2008 Saab 9-3 Wagon [ 2007 ]
in Affordable Full Size Wagons
Based on analysis of 27 9-3-Wagon reviews and test drives.
Saab 9-3 Wagon - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Saab 9-3 Wagon ranks 3 out of 6 Affordable Full Size Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 27 published reviews and test drives of the Saab 9-3 Wagon, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 9-3 SportCombi receives a good ranking because it is comfortable, distinct, and possesses an all-wheel drive system. However, its cabin quality is not up to the standards of its class.
Compared to its sister sedan, the Saab 9-3, the SportCombi provides sportiness and Saab individualism, mixed with the utility and practicality of a General Motors wagon. Car and Driver says the 9-3 SportCombi is a "premium wagon version of the mid-size 9-3 sedan ... built for comfort and speed and cargo ... what's not to like?"
What the SportCombi does have is a new all-wheel drive system that improves driver involvement and complements its quirky nature. But the Saab 9-3 SportCombi is pricier than some competitors and doesn't have a reputation for value over time. For 2008, the SportCombi receives some changes to the exterior. A new all-wheel-drive option for the Aero models will be introduced halfway through 2008.
The wagon is available in two trims, the 2.0T base trim and the sportier Aero.
- "Though the 2007 9-3 is a more conventional car than Saabs past, driving one is still a unique experience that starts the moment you turn the key." -- About.com
- "Wagon, SportCombi....whatever. The most important point is that the 9-3 5-door lives again." -- Road and Track
- "The SportCombi is a nice combination of sportiness and hauling function in a pretty, modern wrapper that offers nearly 60 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat flopped out of the way." -- Automotive.com
9-3-Wagon Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)
Test drivers find that the 9-3 SportCombi is powerful and handles well. According to USA Today, "Steering, braking, cornering all were crisp and sporty without imposing harshness or hair-trigger reactions." Subsequently, the 9-3 SportCombi's performance attributes rank high in its class. Continue with our full Performance Review to read about the 9-3 SportCombi's "Cross Wheel Drive" (XWD) system. continue
9-3-Wagon Exterior - NA
Reviewers agree that the 9-3 SportCombi is distinct and generally attractive. "Making a wagon look attractive isn't easy, but Saab has succeeded," writes About.com. Continue with our full Exterior Review to read the exterior changes the 9-3 SportCombi receives for 2008, or check out our photo gallery. continue
9-3-Wagon Interior - 7.0 (Good)
The 9-3 SportCombi has the minimalist design that most have come to expect from Saab, but its materials quality can't match other full-size wagons. Forbes describes the 9-3 SportCombi's interior as "a tidy, leather-clad cabin, which is sufficiently spacious for four adults, with a fifth able to squeeze into the backseat for short trips when the need arises." Even so, the 9-3 SportCombi's interior cabin ranks low in its class. Continue with our full Interior Review to read why some reviewers criticize its navigation system, or go to the 2008 9-3 SportCondi Photo Gallery to see pictures of its cabin for yourself. continue
9-3-Wagon Safety - 8.4 (Very Good)
The Saab 9-3 SportCombi performs well in government crash tests and is an insurance industry "Top Safety Pick." What's more, it features a wide array of active and safety equipment, including torso-side air bags. The Saab 9-3 SportCombi receives a high safety ranking relative to its class. Continue with our full Safety Review to read about 9-3 SportCombi's other standard safety features. continue
9-3-Wagon Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Saab 9-3 Wagon reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 9-3 SportCombi comes with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to read about Saab's competitive powertrain warranty. continue
