2008 Saab 9-3 Wagon Safety Review [ 2007 ]
in Affordable Full Size Wagons
Based on analysis of 27 9-3-Wagon reviews and test drives.
Safety - What the Auto Press Says
Saab's 9-3 SportCombi receives solid scores in government and private crash tests, and is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) "Top Safety Pick."
The government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the 2008 Saab 9-3 SportCombi four out of five stars for driver and passenger protection in frontal crash tests, four out of five for rear seat passenger protection in side impact tests and five out of five stars for the front seat passenger protection in side impact crashes. Additionally, the Saab 9-3 receives four out of five stars for rollover resistance. IIHS gives the 9-3 its highest rating, "Good," for overall protection in crash tests.
Accident Avoidance
The Saab 9-3 should be commended for its safety precautions. Forbes calls safety "a proud Swedish tradition," and the Detroit News says, "Saab traditionally has put a high priority on safety, and the SportCombi continues that tradition." To help drivers avoid an accident in the 2008 9-3 SportCombi, Saab includes a traction control system, an electronic stability program and an antilock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution.
Crash Protection
The About.com reviewer had first-hand exposure to the 2008 Saab 9-3 SportCombi's protective structure and equipment. While testing the vehicle, he had a minor fender bender where another car attempted to pass on the right as he turned:
"The impact wasn't severe enough to set off the 9-3 side airbags, but it was a significant hit with the brunt of the force directed at the passenger's door. The Saab's body structure absorbed the impact, so while there was significant damage to the 9-3's door and fender, there was no damage to the interior door panel, or more importantly my wife Robin's leg. The other car literally bounced right off the Saab...I'm just very glad we were driving a Saab that day."
All 9-3 SportCombi's have adaptive driver and front-passenger air bags, head-curtain side air bags for outboard seats and torso-side air bags for the front. Saab's Park Assist System for driving in reverse is available in various optional packages.
