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Saab 9-3 - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Saab 9-3 ranks 4 out of 7 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 78 published reviews and test drives of the Saab 9-3, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 9-3 is a sporty performer with a polished exterior, but its low MPG contribute to its perceived poor value for the class.

Ten years since its introduction, the 2009 Saab 9-3 is known for upholding the manufacturer's distinctly European persona. The auto press says the 9-3 has just enough power, refinement and quirk to be a strong alternative in the upscale small car class. But it also has some perceived flaws. Many auto writers say the 9-3 doesn't have enough upscale qualities, and its merely adequate gas mileage further hurts its perceived value.

Fortunately the entry-level luxury class has plenty of European-engineered vehicles to also consider. The Audi A3 is great if you're looking for a distinctive yet sleek style and outstanding power. However, the A3 can be pricey. Also check out the VW GTI, which has its own unique personality, but for a more competitive price.

Currently sold in two trims -- the base 2.0T and the Aero model, the 2009 Saab 9-3 is virtually unchanged since the numerous performance and design enhancements of the 2008 model year. It is still sold as a two-door convertible as well as a wagon, the Saab 9-3 SportCombi.

• "It offers a great combination of performance, comfort, and space, and real-world gas mileage that won't break the family piggybank." -- New Car Test Drive
• "The Saab does have unique design, a willing spirit, and an excellent optional all-wheel drive system in its favor." -- Car and Driver
• "Buy the 9-3 Sedan if you want a quick and nimble European sedan with just enough quirkiness to set it apart from the pack. Keep looking if you want larger and/or sportier vehicle." -- Forbes
• "The Saab 9-3 offers a lot more than just a convertible top for fair-weather driving. I would feel as comfortable in the Saab 9-3 convertible year-round as I would with any other front-wheel-drive sedan." -- Minneapolis Star Tribune
• "The revamped 9-3 takes us back to some of Saab's roots with crisp handling, manageable power, and a striking new look that includes snake-eye headlamps, piercing fog lights, a looming grille, and a clamshell hood that will be evocative for Saab fans of a certain age. Go back any farther and you'll need to break out the tie-dye and patchouli oil." -- Boston Globe
• "Saab, as a company, has always marched to a different drummer, and it seeks customers who do, too. You'll like the beat, if not the price." -- Orlando Sentinel
• "This new car is attractive, efficient, comfortable and sporty." -- AutoWeek

9-3 Performance - 8.3 (Very Good)

Reviews of the Saab 9-3's strong engines and swift transmissions are generally positive, as are comments on the sedan's ride quality. According to the Boston Globe, "This car is not a hot rod ... but it does fill the bill for those who want a little sport in their driving." But the 9-3's power results in less than ideal gas mileage for the class. The EPA rates the 9-3 between 15 and 16 mpg in the city and 24 and 26 mpg on the highway.   Read More

9-3 Exterior - 8.5 (Very Good)

After a facelift for the last model year, Saab 9-3's exterior design is one of its most distinctive and well-liked traits. Car and Driver says, "The look is edgy and mean and very nicely detailed. And yes, very Saab." The 9-3 now has a clamshell hood that gives the sedan a sportier appearance than before. Read More

9-3 Interior - 7.7 (Good)

The 9-3 has some of the most comfortable front row seats for the class, but some reviewers view the cabin's simplistic design as a lack of substance and quality. Representing the more positive reviews, AutoWeek says "these Swedes ... figured out a way to make the cockpit a place you'd like to stay and live in." But others argue closer inspection reveals inconsistent fit and finish. Read More

9-3 Safety - 9.3 (Excellent)

The 2009 9-3 does well in government and insurance industry crash tests, and is an IIHS "Top Safety Pick" for its good performance in front, side, and rear tests with standard electronic stability control. Read More

9-3 Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)

The 2009 Saab 9-3 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 2009 Saab 9-3's bumper-to-bumper warranty is good for four-years or 50,000-miles. It also has competitive powertrain coverage. Read More