2007 Saab 9-3: Road Test
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2007 Saab 9-3 ▼
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- MSRP: $26,170 -$42,375
- Invoice: $24,678 -$39,960
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Our road test for the 2007 Saab 9-3 includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Saab 9-3 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Saab 9-3, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Saab 9-3 help you decide if a 2007 Saab 9-3 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
2.0T models fairly quick, but launch, passing response dulled by brief turbo lag; test convertible with automatic did 7.8 sec 0-60 mph. V6 helps Aero models feel stronger from a stop, furnish better passing response; they have little turbo lag. Manual transmission shift and clutch action not as precise as top rivals, making the smooth automatic a better choice. Saab says Aero sedan does 6.4 sec 0-60 with manual transmission, 6.6 with automatic.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
With automatic transmission, test 2.0T sedan averaged 23.3 mpg, 2.0T convertible 24.0 mpg. Automatic-transmission Aero wagons averaged 20.6-20.7 mpg overall, 24.9 in mostly highway driving. With manual transmission, test 2.0T sedan averaged 22.0. Regardless of body style, test manual-transmission Aero models averaged 17.2 mpg in mostly city driving, 21.7 with more highway use. Saab recommends premium-grade fuel for all 9-3s.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
All 9-3s firm, poised, but 2.0Ts are most compliant over bumps. Taut sport suspension, low-profile tires cause Aeros to thump, jiggle over larger bumps. Convertible impressively rigid, with little body flex on uneven surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7.3 |
All 9-3s feel nimble. Precise steering, though some drivers might prefer heavier feel. Aero has better grip, response in turns than 2.0T. Solid body structure means convertible handles almost as well as sedan and wagon. All versions nicely free of torque steer.
QUIETNESS
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 6.2 |
Any 9-3 has more tire noise than class norm; convertible and SportCombi have more than sedan. Engines always heard but never sound unrefined. Wind rush apparent at highway speed, but doesn't disturb conversation. Convertibles not uncomfortably loud, top up or down.
CONTROLS
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
Audio and navigation systems on 2007 9-3s are now the same as those in other GM cars. We find them intuitive and easy to operate, however using the dashboard-mounted cupholder impairs access to the auxiliary audio input jack. Navigation system absorbs but doesn't complicate audio functions. All 9-3s have their ignition switch on the center console--a Saab tradition we find unobjectionable. Interior materials assembled with care, but not all cabin plastics up to premium-class benchmarks. Turn signal, windshield wiper stalks feel cheap, have brittle movement.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
Comfortable seats, good all-around support. Standard tilt/telescope steering wheel helps tailor driving position. Tallest drivers may wish for more rearward seat travel. Center roof pillar compromises ingress with driver seat fully rearward. Rear roof pillars, headrests obscure aft visibility on all body styles.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
Good head clearance. Knee room in sedans, wagons tight if front seats set far back. Same for toe space if driver seat isn't elevated. Rear leg room cramped in convertibles, and 2-dr body style taxes entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 4 | 7 | 4.1 |
Sedan has tall trunk with considerable volume. SportCombi delivers true wagon utility. All have plenty of interior storage space. Glovebox door stylishly integrated into dashboard and opens to reveal large, deep compartment. Convertible's 12.4-cu-ft trunk among largest of any ragtop, but shrinks to 8.3 cu ft when top is stowed.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 6.2 |
Saab 9-3s are dynamically capable premium compacts that include lots of standard safety and convenience features. The convertible is especially well engineered. They aren't as refined or sporty as rivals from Audi or BMW, and those models offer the all-weather security of all-wheel drive, which isn't available on the 9-3. However, these Saabs tend to be less expensive and carry bigger discounts.
Total Score
| 2.0T sdn, auto. | 2.0T conv, auto. | Aero sdn w/nav. sys., man. | Aero SportCombi, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 62 | 55 | 60 | 62 | 59.5 |
Total Score: 60
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