2003 Saab 9-3: Road Test
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2003 Saab 9-3 ▼
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- MSRP: $25,995 -$39,995
- Invoice: $24,524 -$37,395
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Our road test for the 2003 Saab 9-3 includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Saab 9-3 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Saab 9-3, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Saab 9-3 help you decide if a 2003 Saab 9-3 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.1 |
Linear model slightly slow away from a stop, but picks up speed quickly to do 8 sec 0-60 mph in our test. Arc and Vector notably livelier, with plenty of passing power. Slight turbo lag and automatic transmission's slow downshifts produce a pause before power delivery. Manual transmissions' long throws, numb feel diminish sportiness.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Test automatic-transmission Linears averaged 21.8-23.5 mpg. No opportunity to measure with other 2003 sedans. Test 2002 SE convertible averaged 19.4 mpg. Saab recommends premium fuel for all.
RIDE QUALITY
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.4 |
Firm and poised. Linear's 15-inch tires the most forgiving. Optional 16s and especially Vector's 17s, are stiff, high-performance tires that generate thump and jiggle on bumps. Convertible flexes noticeably except on smooth roads, and test example's top creaked.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 8 | 5 | 7 |
Where the 9-3 really shines, especially Vector with its sport suspension and 17-inch tires. Stable through turns. Steering predictable, but slightly heavier feel would help, especially at high speed. Brake-pedal feel is overly sensitive, but stops are short.
QUIETNESS
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 6.1 |
Tire noise slightly more evident than it should be over some coarse surfaces, but engines muted and turbo emits only a slight hiss. Wind rush apparent at highway speed, but doesn't disturb conversation.
CONTROLS
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.4 |
Main gauges easy to read. Main switchgear in center dashboard pod angled toward driver. Climate and audio readouts in dashtop screen, remote from actual controls. Audio-system adjustments not self-explanatory. Ignition switch between front seats is a Saab tradition we find unobjectionable. Fine fit and finish in contemporary-design interior, but not all cabin plastics up to near-luxury benchmarks. Turn-signal and windshield-wiper stalks suffer brittle movement.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.1 |
Notably comfortable seats with good lateral support. Standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel helps tailor position, though tallest drivers might wish for more rearward seat travel. Some testers find sedan's rear roof pillars and high headrest obscure aft visibility. Rear visibility awful in convertible with top raised.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3.8 |
Good head clearance. Knee room disappointingly tight if front seats more than halfway back; same for toe space if driver's seat isn't elevated. Convertibles hold just two on small, narrow seat.
CARGO ROOM
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 4.1 |
Sedan's rear seatbacks fold to expand tall trunk's considerable volume. Plenty of interior storage space. Glovebox door stylishly integrated into dashboard and opens to reveal large, deep--and refrigerated--compartment.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 4.8 |
Its front-wheel-drive layout prevents the 9-3 from competing with the best in the class for ultimate handling prowess. And key rivals offer all-wheel drive for better all-weather security. Still, this is a dynamically capable, fun-to-drive car. Less quirky than 9-3s of old, it remains a nonconformist alternative to BMW, Audi, Lexus, and Acura, even if it's no match for overall value.
Total Score
| Linear, auto. | Arc, auto. | Vector, man. | SE conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 58 | 58 | 59 | 46 | 55.9 |
Total Score: 55
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