2007 Saab 9-3 Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

Saab's best-selling car gets a freshened interior for 2007. The 9-3 comes as a 4-dr sedan, 2-dr convertible, and SportCombi 4-dr wagon. All are offered as the 2.0T with a 210-hp 4-cyl and as the Aero with a 250-hp V6. Both engines are turbocharged and come with manual or automatic transmission. All 9-3s have ABS and traction/antiskid control. Aeros have a sport suspension and larger wheels. Sedans and SportCombis have front side airbags and curtain side airbags. They seat five and have split folding rear seatbacks. The convertible seats four and has front side airbags designed to protect head and torso. It has a power fabric top, heated glass rear window, and a rollover bar designed to pop up in an impending tip. Leather upholstery is standard. All '07 9-3s get revisions to the instrument panel and interior trim. Saab is owned by General Motors, and the 9-3 shares its basic architecture with the Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6, and Saturn Aura.

Competition

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.

Our Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TSX and Audi A3.

New or significantly redesigned is the BMW 3-Series.

News

Revised 9-3s are said to be due this summer, timed to coincide with Saab's 60th birthday party. Though not altogether clear, these cars may be a full redesign on General Motors' new Epsilon 2 architecture that underpins the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu and an upcoming makeover for the related Pontiac G6. The 9-3 redesign shifts production from Saab in Sweden to a German plant under GM subsidiary Opel. Little else can be confirmed right now, but we'd look for existing U.S.-market powertrains to carry over with various updates. Spy photos of lightly disguised test prototypes suggest a bolder interpretation of current 9-3 styling, with some cues inspired by the recent Aero X concept car. More news as we get it, so keep checking back with us.

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2007 Saab 9-3 Road Test

Pros	Cons

Handling/roadholding	Rear-seat foot room

Cargo room (SportCombi)	Engine noise (Aero models)

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

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	4.2

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	6.3

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	59.7

Scores for all Premium Compact Cars

Low Score		55
Average Score		59
High Score		67

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2007 Saab 9-3 Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 11/14/2006

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

2.0T 4-door sedan	$26,170	$24,678	$745

2.0T SportCombi 4-door wagon	$27,170	$25,621	$745

2.0T 2-door convertible	$36,770	$34,674	$745

Aero 4-door sedan	$32,745	$30,624	$745

Aero SportCombi 4-door wagon	$33,375	$31,473	$745

Aero 2-door convertible	$42,375	$39,960	$745

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

2.0T

Powertrain

2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, traction control.

Safety

Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags (sedan, wagon), front-seat active head restraints, automatic roll bar (convertible), antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor, emergency inside trunklid release, daytime running lights.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, power steering, tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat w/trunk pass-through (sedan, wagon), heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital-media player connection, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, cooled glovebox, variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, rear defogger, power convertible top (convertible), automatic-off headlights, floormats.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, rear fog light, 215/55HR16 tires, alloy wheels.

Aero adds to 2.0T:

Powertrain

2.8-liter turbocharged V6 engine.

Comfort and Convenience Features

8-way power passenger seat, power sunroof (sedan, wagon), AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, satellite radio.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Rear spoiler, xenon headlights, front fog lights, sport suspension, 235/45VR17 tires.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
Premium Pkg.
2.0T	$1,795	$1,616
Rear-obstacle-detection system, 8-way power passenger seat, driver-seat memory, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, upgraded sound system, wood interior trim (sedan, wagon), automatic up/down front windows, remote power-window operation, remote power sunroof operation (sedan, wagon), remote top operation (convertible), rain-sensing wipers, xenon headlights, front fog lights.

Premium Pkg. w/17-Inch Wheels
2.0T	$1,995	$1,796


Touring Pkg.
Aero	$1,195	$1,076
Rear-obstacle-detection system, driver-seat memory, universal garage door opener, automatic day/night rearview, compass, remote power-window operation, remote power sunroof operation (sedan, wagon), remote top operation (convertible), rain-sensing wipers.

Navigation/Audio Pkg.
2.0T	$2,740	$2,466
Navigation system, upgraded sound system, satellite radio. Requires OnStar assistance system.

Cold Weather Pkg.
2.0T, Aero	$550	$495
Heated front seats and headlight washers.

Powertrain
5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
2.0T	$1,350	$1,337


6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
Aero	$1,350	$1,337


Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
2.0T, Aero	$2,145	$1,931
Aero replaces in-dash 6-disc CD changer w/single-disc CD player. Requires OnStar assistance system.

OnStar assistance system
2.0T, Aero	$695	$626
Includes one year service.

Power sunroof
2.0T sedan/wagon	$1,200	$1,080


Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
2.0T	$895	$806
Includes satellite radio.

Appearance and Miscellaneous
Special paint
2.0T, Aero	$550	$495


Roof rails
wagon	$250	$225

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2007 Saab 9-3 Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	Saab 9-3 4-door sedan	Saab 9-3 4-door wagon	Saab 9-3 2-door convertible

Wheelbase, in.	105.3	105.3	105.3

Overall Length, in.	182.5	183.2	182.4

Overall Width, in.	69.0	69.4	69.3

Overall Height, in.	56.8	60.6	56.4

Curb Weight, lbs.	3175	3175	3480

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	15.0	72.3	12.4

Standard Payload, lbs.	--	--	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	16.4	16.4	16.4

Seating Capacity	5	5	4

Front Head Room, in.	38.9	38.9	38.0

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	42.3	42.3	41.4

Rear Head Room, in.	37.0	37.0	37.0

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	35.1	35.1	32.3

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Engines

	Turbocharged dohc I4	Turbocharged dohc V6

Size, liters/cu. in.	2.0 /121	2.8 /170

Horsepower @ rpm.	210 @ 5500	250 @ 5500

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	221 @ 2500	258 @ 2000

Availability	Standard	Standard

EPA City / highway mpg

6-speed manual	22/30	18/28

5-speed automatic	21/30	--/--

6-speed automatic	--/--	17/28

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 4-door sedan

Saab 9-3 4-door wagon

Saab 9-3 2-door convertible

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	5/100,000	--

Bumper-to-bumper	4/50,000	--

Corrosion	6/Unlimited on 9-2X, 9-5 Sedan, 9-5 SportCombi, and 9-7X SUV	10/unlimited on 9-3 Sport Sedan and 9-3 Convertible

Free roadside assistance	5/100,000	--

Free scheduled maintenance	3/36,000	2/24,000 on 9-2x.

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

Drivewheels: front-wheel drive

Tester's Comments

(what's this?)

Vehicle Evaluated: 2007 9-3 Aero
Trim Level: Aero
Arrival Date: 02/22/2007
Engine: Turbocharged dohc V6
Bodystyle: 4-door wagon
Transmission: 6-speed manual
4WD/AWD: No
Base Price: $33,375
Price as Tested: $37,110
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 4795
Mileage at End of Test: 5086
Total Measured Miles:
Total Fuel Used: 18.62 gals.

Major Options: Titan Gray Metallic, Front Heated Seats & Headlamp Washers, OnStar, Touring Package (driver's seat 3-position memory, express up and down with remote opening for the front power windows & moonroof, auto dimming interior mirror with compass and integrated garage door opener, rear park assist and rain sensing windshield wipers)

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 21.75 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None

From The Back Seat
Chuck Giametta The Saab 9-3 is the jewel of the GM fleet. Not only has it somehow retained its Scandinavian individuality, it's a design that -- somehow -- also lives up to the stereotype of appealing to the "thinking" car buyer. Alas, the Aero's taut suspension and relatively low-profile tires compromise ride quality and quietness too much. Saab should offer this wonderful turbo V6 with the base suspension, which is a marvel of comfort and composure.

Ed Piotrowski There have been several nominees, but 9-3 takes the crown for "the best car nobody knows about." It's incredibly fun to drive, has the versatility of a wagon body style, and offers a convertible that gives up little in structural rigidity to its fixed-roof stablemates. Prices get a bit steep when talking about V6 models, especially since you'll want to pony up for the automatic transmission. Thus, seek a judiciously equipped 2.0T for best dollar value. You'll also get a vehicle that has a better ride/handling balance and superior fuel economy. If you're in the market, don't forget to put the 9-3 on your shopping list.

< 2007 Saab 9-3 Photos

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Also in the 2007 Saab 9-3 Review:

Saab 9-3

Saab 9-3 Road Test

Saab 9-3 Prices & Equipment

Saab 9-3 Specs & Safety

Saab 9-3 Photos

Saab 9-3 Full Review

All Saab 9-3s

All Saabs