Saab's best-selling car gains a base-trim convertible and an available navigation system for 2005, but loses some other features. The 9-3 comes as a 4-dr sedan and a 2-dr convertible with a power top, heated glass rear window, and a rollover bar that pops up if sensors detect an impending tip. Both body styles offer base-trim Linear, luxury-oriented Arc, and sporty Aero models; the Linear convertible is new for '05. All use a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cyl engine with 175 hp in Linears, 210 in Arc and Aero. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard; Aeros previously came with a 6-speed. A 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate is optional; the Aero's includes steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles. Linear and Arc have 16-inch wheels; Linears previously came with 15s. Aeros have a sport suspension and 17-inch wheels. The 17s are an Arc option. All 9-3s have 4-wheel antilock disc brakes and antiskid/traction control. Sedans have front side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags. Convertibles have front side airbags designed to protect the torso and head.

Leather upholstery is optional on the Linear convertible, standard on other 9-3s. Previously standard on Arcs, wood interior trim is optional. Sedans have 60/40 split folding rear seatbacks with trunk pass-through. The navigation system is a new Arc and Aero option. A tire-pressure monitor and OnStar assistance are no longer available. Saab is owned by General Motors, and the 9-3 shares its basic platform with the Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6.