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2001 Saab 9-3 Full Review
Date Published: 5/22/08
Also in the 2001 Saab 9-3 Review:
2001 Saab 9-3 Review
Smaller Saab features base-trim 2- and 4-dr hatchbacks, uplevel SE 4-dr and convertible, and high-performance Viggen versions of all three body styles. All have a turbo 4-cyl engine: Base has 185 hp, SE 205, Viggen 230. Viggens come only with 5-speed manual transmission; other models offer optional automatic. Traction control new standard feature, joins antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags, and front head restraints designed to minimize whiplash injury. Convertible power top has heated glass window. General Motors owns this Swedish automaker, and GM's OnStar assistance system is standard; includes voice-activated phone, e-mail, and Internet connection. OnStar is free for first 12 months. All but base 9-3 has free scheduled maintenance for 3-years/36,000-mi., excluding wear items such as tires and wiper blades.
Competition
This hotly contested segment has a clear benchmark; it is the Acura TL (and its 2-door cousin Acura CL). The TL succeeds in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. If you are leaning more toward the luxury scale, the Lexus ES 300 might be a more practical purchase.
We also recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored Audi A6, the comfortable Buick Park Avenue, the affordable and fast Infiniti I30.
We also recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored Audi A6, the comfortable Buick Park Avenue, the affordable and fast Infiniti I30.
News
Saab's junior line suffered a U.S. sales setback in calendar 2000, sliding 13.3 percent to just under 19,500 units. Likely factors are an aging design--rooted in the 1994-vintage 900 series--and stiffer competition, especially from other European makes.
A redesigned 9-3 is due to appear in early 2002 as an '03 model. As General Motors now owns all of Saab's car business, the replacement will follow big-brother 9-5 in adopting GM corporate engineering--specifically the new front-drive Epsilon platform destined also for the redesigned 2004 Chevy Malibu, Pontiac Grand Am--and next-generation 9-5. The next 9-3 is said to be a little smaller than those cars, but slightly longer and wider than the current model. Spy photos of late prototypes suggest styling will mix Saturn and 9-5 elements. Though "less Saab" in basic design, the '03 will retain Swedish power, a brand-new turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cyl with Saab's recently developed variable-compression system. Rumored horsepower is 225, high for the displacement, but the new engine is said to be thriftier and cleaner-running than today's turbo 2.0-liter. Models should comprise the usual hatchbacks plus a sedan. New-generation convertible and high-performance Viggen versions will be added sometime later.
Come 2004, Saab will enter the fast-growing "crossover" market with a retooled version of the Buick Rendezvous/Pontiac Aztek wagons. As-yet unnamed, this vehicle will built alongside its cousins in Mexico, not in Sweden--a first for a Saab--though it will have Saab looks and maybe even some trademark brand features like a floor-mounted ignition switch. All-wheel drive is reportedly standard, making this the first Saab not available with front-wheel drive. Sources also say the Rendezvous/Aztek 3.4-liter pushrod V6 will be swapped for a version of the 9-5's turbocharged 3.0-liter overhead-cam V6.
A redesigned 9-3 is due to appear in early 2002 as an '03 model. As General Motors now owns all of Saab's car business, the replacement will follow big-brother 9-5 in adopting GM corporate engineering--specifically the new front-drive Epsilon platform destined also for the redesigned 2004 Chevy Malibu, Pontiac Grand Am--and next-generation 9-5. The next 9-3 is said to be a little smaller than those cars, but slightly longer and wider than the current model. Spy photos of late prototypes suggest styling will mix Saturn and 9-5 elements. Though "less Saab" in basic design, the '03 will retain Swedish power, a brand-new turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cyl with Saab's recently developed variable-compression system. Rumored horsepower is 225, high for the displacement, but the new engine is said to be thriftier and cleaner-running than today's turbo 2.0-liter. Models should comprise the usual hatchbacks plus a sedan. New-generation convertible and high-performance Viggen versions will be added sometime later.
Come 2004, Saab will enter the fast-growing "crossover" market with a retooled version of the Buick Rendezvous/Pontiac Aztek wagons. As-yet unnamed, this vehicle will built alongside its cousins in Mexico, not in Sweden--a first for a Saab--though it will have Saab looks and maybe even some trademark brand features like a floor-mounted ignition switch. All-wheel drive is reportedly standard, making this the first Saab not available with front-wheel drive. Sources also say the Rendezvous/Aztek 3.4-liter pushrod V6 will be swapped for a version of the 9-5's turbocharged 3.0-liter overhead-cam V6.
2001 Saab 9-3 Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Rear-seat room/comfort (convertible) |
| Braking | Rear visibility (convertible) |
| Cargo room (exc. convertible) | Rear-seat entry/exit (exc. 4-dr) |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Good overall. Test 5-speed base model did 0-60 mph in quick 7.5 sec. SE and Viggen quicker still (6.1 sec for Viggen, says Saab). However, there's marked turbo lag and, in SEs and Viggens, some unruly torque steer--pulling to side in hard throttle.
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Good overall. Test 5-speed base model did 0-60 mph in quick 7.5 sec. SE and Viggen quicker still (6.1 sec for Viggen, says Saab). However, there's marked turbo lag and, in SEs and Viggens, some unruly torque steer--pulling to side in hard throttle.
Fuel Economy
Base 5-speed 4-door averaged 21.3 mpg in our tests, 5-speed SE convertible 19.4. SEs and Viggens take premium fuel.
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Base 5-speed 4-door averaged 21.3 mpg in our tests, 5-speed SE convertible 19.4. SEs and Viggens take premium fuel.
Ride Quality
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 are more comfortable on any road.
| 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 are more comfortable on any road.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Sporty and predictable in all models, with good cornering grip and accurate steering. Traction control is useful safety feature and corrects a competitive deficit.
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 7 | 6.6 |
Sporty and predictable in all models, with good cornering grip and accurate steering. Traction control is useful safety feature and corrects a competitive deficit.
Quietness
Engines muted, wind noise somewhat disturbing for the class. Tire noise on SEs and Viggens intrudes over coarse surfaces. Sedans properly rigid, but convertible flexes noticeably except on smooth roads, and last test example's top creaked.
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
| 6 | 4 | 5 | 5.2 |
Engines muted, wind noise somewhat disturbing for the class. Tire noise on SEs and Viggens intrudes over coarse surfaces. Sedans properly rigid, but convertible flexes noticeably except on smooth roads, and last test example's top creaked.
Controls
Generally good, but the SE's automatic climate system can lose its settings between startups. Floor-mount ignition switch is a Saab trademark. Detail finish good, materials classy.
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.5 |
Generally good, but the SE's automatic climate system can lose its settings between startups. Floor-mount ignition switch is a Saab trademark. Detail finish good, materials classy.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Lots of head clearance and good leg room on firm, chairlike seats. Most drivers should feel at ease, though rear visibility not great in hatchbacks, awful in convertibles with top raised.
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 5.7 |
Lots of head clearance and good leg room on firm, chairlike seats. Most drivers should feel at ease, though rear visibility not great in hatchbacks, awful in convertibles with top raised.
Room/Comfort (rear)
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.
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
| 6 | 3 | 4 | 3.5 |
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
Hatchbacks have wagonlike room and versatility. Convertible has good-sized trunk for a ragtop. All get fold-down rear seatback.
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
| 7 | 2 | 7 | 3.5 |
Hatchbacks have wagonlike room and versatility. Convertible has good-sized trunk for a ragtop. All get fold-down rear seatback.
Value within Class
Quirky describes 9-3, and compromise is the byword for its turbo-engine performance. But 9-3 has its charms, obvious mostly to Saab loyalists. For near-luxury Swedish-style, more buyers turn to Volvo's newer S60 sedans and V70 wagons.
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
| 4 | 2 | 2 | 4 |
Quirky describes 9-3, and compromise is the byword for its turbo-engine performance. But 9-3 has its charms, obvious mostly to Saab loyalists. For near-luxury Swedish-style, more buyers turn to Volvo's newer S60 sedans and V70 wagons.
Total Score
| Base 4-dr hatch, auto. | SE conv, auto. | Viggen 2-dr hatch, man. | Class Average |
| 60 | 45 | 54 | 51.3 |
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
| Low Score | 42 | |
| Average Score | 51 | |
| High Score | 60 |
2001 Saab 9-3 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 03/07/2000
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| Base 2-door hatchback | $26,495 | $25,170 | $575 |
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| Base 4-door hatchback | $26,995 | $25,402 | $575 |
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| SE 2-door convertible | $39,995 | $37,395 | $575 |
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| SE 4-door hatchback | $32,595 | $30,737 | $575 |
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| Viggen 2-door hatchback | $37,995 | $34,955 | $575 |
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| Viggen 4-door hatchback | $37,995 | $34,955 | $575 |
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| Viggen 2-door convertible | $44,995 | $41,395 | $575 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base
Powertrain
2.0-liter turbocharged dohc 4-cylinder 185-horsepower engine, 5-speed manual transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, front seat active head restraints, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, interior air filter, OnStar System w/one year service (roadside assistance, emergency services; other services available), power steering, telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, driver seat manual lumbar adjustment, split folding rear seat w/trunk pass-through, cupholders, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/cassette/weatherband w/CD changer controls, steering-wheel radio controls, power antenna, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, variable intermittent wipers, rear defogger, rear wiper/washer, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic-off headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, headlight wiper/washer, front and rear fog lights, cornering lights, rear spoiler, 195/60VR15 tires, alloy wheels.
SE convertible adds to Base:
Powertrain
2.0-liter turbocharged dohc 4-cylinder 205-horsepower engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, 8-way power driver seat, folding rear seat w/trunk pass-through, leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood interior trim, upgraded sound system, power convertible top.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: rear wiper/washer, rear spoiler.
Sport suspension, 205/50ZR16 tires.
SE hatchback adds to Base:
Powertrain
2.0-liter turbocharged dohc 4-cylinder 205-horsepower engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Automatic climate control, leather upholstery, 8-way power front seats w/driver seat memory, leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood interior trim, power sunroof.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
205/50ZR16 tires.
Viggen adds to SE hatchback:
Powertrain
2.3-liter turbocharged dohc 4-cylinder 230-horsepower engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Special interior trim, front sport seats, folding rear seat w/trunk pass-through (convertible).
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: power antenna.
Aerodynamic body cladding, performance sport suspension, 215/45ZR17 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Premium Pkg.
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||
|
SE convertible
|
$1,495
|
$1,301
|
|
Automatic climate control, 8-way power passenger seat, driver seat memory, rear spoiler.
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||
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Powertrain |
||
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4-speed automatic transmission
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Base, SE
|
$1,200
|
$1,044
|
|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
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Power sunroof
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Base hatchback
|
$1,150
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$1,001
|
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AM/FM/CD player
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Base, SE convertible, SE hatchback, Viggen
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$0
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$0
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Leather upholstery
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Base
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$1,350
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$1,175
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Includes leather-wrapped steering wheel.
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Heated front seats
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Base, SE convertible, SE hatchback, Viggen
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$450
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$392
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Special paint
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Base, SE convertible, SE hatchback, Viggen
|
$450
|
$392
|
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2001 Saab 9-3 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Saab 9-3 2-door hatchback | Saab 9-3 2-door convertible | Saab 9-3 4-door hatchback |
| Wheelbase, in. | 102.6 | 102.6 | 102.6 |
| Overall Length, in. | 182.3 | 182.3 | 182.3 |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.4 | 67.4 | 67.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.2 | 56.0 | 56.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2980 | 3200 | 3020 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 21.7 | 12.5 | 21.7 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.0 | 17.0 | 17.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 4 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.3 | 38.9 | 39.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.3 | 42.3 | 42.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.9 | 37.9 | 37.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.1 | 33.0 | 34.1 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | Turbocharged dohc I4 | Turbocharged dohc I4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.0 /121 | 2.0 /121 | 2.3 /140 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 185 @ 5500 | 205 @ 5500 | 230 @ 5500 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 194 @ 2100 | 209 @ 2200 | 258 @ 2500 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 5-speed manual | 22/30 | 21/29 | 20/31 |
| 4-speed automatic | 21/28 | 21/28 | --/-- |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Saab 9-3 2-door hatchback | Saab 9-3 2-door convertible | Saab 9-3 4-door hatchback |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | 3/36,000 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Sweden, Finland
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Also in the 2001 Saab 9-3 Review:
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