2000 Saab 9-3: Road Test
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2000 Saab 9-3 ▼
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- MSRP: $26,100 -$44,995
- Invoice: $24,534 -$40,945
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Our road test for the 2000 Saab 9-3 includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Saab 9-3 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Saab 9-3, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Saab 9-3 help you decide if a 2000 Saab 9-3 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.3 |
Good overall. We timed a 5-speed base convertible at a quick 7.5 seconds 0-60 mph. However, there's marked turbo lag and, in SEs and Viggens, some unruly torque steer--pulling to the side in hard throttle.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
A base-model 5-speed 4-door returned 21.3 mpg and a base 5-speed convertible 19.4. SEs and Viggens take premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 5 | 4 | 5.3 |
SEs and Viggens have stiff high-performance tires that transmit lots of irritating thump and jiggle on small, sharp bumps. Base models have softer tires and should be more comfortable on any road.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 7 | 6.4 |
Sporty and predictable in all models, with good cornering grip and accurate steering.
QUIETNESS
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
Engines are muted and wind noise low. Tire noise on SEs and Viggens intrudes over coarse surfaces.
CONTROLS
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
Generally good, but the SE's automatic climate system often loses its settings between startups. The floor-mount ignition switch is a Saab trademark.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 5.4 |
Lots of head clearance and good leg room.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 3 | 4 | 3.3 |
Fine comfort and room in the hatchback's outboard positions; squeezed in the center. Convertibles have limited leg room, and seat only two in back because of a much narrower seat.
CARGO ROOM
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 2 | 7 | 3.6 |
Hatchbacks have wagon-like room and versatility. The convertible has a good-sized trunk for a ragtop. All models have a fold-down rear seatback.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 2 | 3.3 |
Though modified in numerous ways from the old 900, the 9-3 is as just quirky--and as compromised in its turbo-engine performance and quavery convertible body. Saab loyalists will love it anyway, but for near-luxury Swedish-style, we'd opt for a Volvo S70 sedan or V70 wagon.
Total Score
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 45 | 54 | 49.3 |
Total Score: 53
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