Positive Review
I have a 2004 Saab 9-3 Acr Convertible with 2.0L turbo engine. I have enjoyed everything about this car especially the gas mileage. It gives me the performance of a sports car with fuel consumption of a small compact car (28mpg hwy). The driver side mirror control switch does not work and should be recalled but that's it. Saab has the most intelligent on board computer I've seen in any car. It also has safety features to protect driver, all passengers and the car itself, including the electrical systems. In the past years the Saab was known for having the most electrical problems but now they have one of the best systems in the business. It is an awesome value at any price. This car competes well with any German or Japan Import and offers an outstanding driving experience. Saabs are under-rated; you get much more than what you paid for. Saabs are engineered to perfection in every way.
Critical Review
Purchased my 2007 SAAB 9-3 SportCombi new in October 2007. Initially a good car to own---fun to drive, fairly comfortable and good payload capacity. The car is fairly rare so it was nice having a vehicle that was relatively uncommon. Also, the free 3 year/36,000 miles maintenance package was a big plus. Unfortunately, the SAAB has been less than reliable and has gone through numerous sets of rear brakes and headlamps. At one point, all of the exterior lights on the left side of the car were out. Repairs are expensive and parts are difficult to obtain, particularly since SAAB filed bankruptcy. I have not been able to repair the left rear tail light for 6 months because a replacement unit (priced at a lofty $450) has not been available. Recently, the vehicle started experiencing cold-start problems. The vehicle would start readily, but would run extremely rough for approximately 10 seconds before the idle would become smoother. This problem is not evident if the engine is already warm. I took the SAAB to a local mechanic (because all of the nearby dealerships have closed) and was told---after attempts to correct the problem by replacing the spark plugs and cleaning the fuel injectors---that the engine would need to torn down at a minimum cost of $3,500. The car has always been well maintained and oil changes and other necessary maintenance has been conducted regularly. I've considered selling the vehicle, but depreciation has been substantial. Blue Book value for the car is less than $9,000. A friend of mine purchased a 2007 Audi A4 Quattro sedan for roughly the same price as my SAAB and the Blue Book value of his vehicle is nearly twice that of mine. The issues with the SAAB, and the significant depreciation has certainly dampened my enthusiasm with owning and driving the vehicle. While I liked the car very much during my initial 2 years of ownership, the last 3 years has been less than enjoyable. Even if SAAB had not entered bankruptcy and was still a viable automobile manufacturer, I doubt that I would purchase a SAAB vehicle again.
Showing 8 of 648 reviews.
comfertable, fun to drive, sounds good, UI inside
unreliable(ecu death), radio is almost impossible to work on, parts hard to find
been chasing issues on this car for the past 2 years(most of them trace back to the ecu) got a brand new ecu and a spacing kit and the ecu still died after 3 weeks.
has everything I wanted on it
needed a little tlc but ok for the cost
It does EVERYTHING well
Fast, efficient, fun, and reliable.
Rear seat space. New parts support is fading.
The 2008 Saab 9-3 offers great performance, comfort, and reliability, making it an ideal commuter. It handles highways well with solid fuel economy, quick acceleration, and a durable build. City fuel efficiency is less impressive, and the backseats can feel tight for adults. Parts can be expensive and hard to find for certain things, but proper, routine, maintenance keeps it running smoothly. If you're considering buying one, check the history and maintenance records to avoid inheriting costly issues. I've owned mine for more than a decade, it's been the best all-around vehicle I’ve owned.
I really have an affinity for this car and body style - convertible ? Yes please . They are not made anymore if you get a chance, buy one .
Fast acceleration. Short stopping distance
Hard to find competitors that can match performanc
If you are looking for a factory street racer this is a great choice. The v6 with ecm boost to 300 hp jumps in every gear using the 6 speed with paddle shifters. I love the oversized front and rear disk brakes with electric assist. Add v rated radials and you can easily go to the 160 rated top speed. Don't worry about stopping because it will push you against the shoulder harness in a very short distance.
Does it all well.
No more Saab
Two years so far and no complaints!! Its very well made and holds up. Fast and efficient. Safe. Handles very well! Looks amazing!! Laser Red w/ black lthr. These Saabs when well cared for are just a joy to own. It hits all the marks! Fast, fun, safe, and beautiful/rare but reliable!
Seat warmers, duel air conditioning, sun roof.
Not manufactured anymore.
A great car with a turbo engine, duel heating and cooling, duel seat warmers with 3 settings, leather seats, 6 cd disk changer, and a sun roof (that shouldn't be opened unless you want it to stay open). Not manufactured anymore, so it's a bit hard to find parts for. I love this car, it's just falling apart faster than my income to fix it.
Fast, agile and luxurious. This the 3rd Saab 93 that I own. Ive had two with the 2.0T and my 3rd one is the 2.6T option. Very reliable. However, expect parts to be expensive.