2008 Saab 9-3: Road Test
2008 Saab 9-3 ▼
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- MSRP: $28,080 -$45,640
- Invoice: $26,760 -$43,495
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Our road test for the 2008 Saab 9-3 includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Saab 9-3 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Saab 9-3, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Saab 9-3 help you decide if a 2008 Saab 9-3 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.4 |
2.0T models are fairly quick, but launch response is dulled by turbo lag. Passing reserves are impressive, though. A test convertible with an automatic transmission did 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds. The Aero's V6 feels stronger from a stop and furnishes better passing response. They have little turbo lag. We've not yet tested a 9-3 with AWD.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a 2.0T sedan with the automatic transmission averaged 23.3 mpg, a wagon averaged 21.8 mpg, and a 2.0T convertible averaged 24.0. Automatic-transmission Aero wagons averaged 20.6 mpg overall and 24.9 in mostly highway use. A manual-transmission Aero sedan averaged 22.3 while a similar convertible averaged 21.7. Saab recommends premium-grade gas for all 9-3s.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
All 9-3s are firm and poised, but 2.0Ts are the most compliant over bumps. Their taut sport suspension and low-profile tires cause Aeros to thump and jiggle over larger bumps. The convertible's structure is impressively rigid, with little body flex on uneven surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 7.3 |
All 9-3s feel nimble. The steering is precise, though some drivers might prefer a heavier feel. Aeros have better grip and response in turns than the 2.0T. The convertible's solid body structure means it handles almost as well as the sedan and wagon.
QUIETNESS
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 5 | 7 | 6 | 6.1 |
Any 9-3 has more tire noise than the class norm. Convertibles and SportCombis have more than the sedan. Engines are always heard but never sound unrefined. Wind rush is apparent at highway speeds but doesn't disturb conversation. Convertibles are not uncomfortably loud, top up or down.
CONTROLS
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
Audio and climate controls are intuitive and easy to operate. All 9-3s have their ignition switch on the center console--a Saab tradition we find unobjectionable. The available navigation system absorbs audio controls, complicating what should be simple adjustments.
DETAILS
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 7.2 |
Interior materials are assembled with care, but the overall ambiance is more tasteful, sporty simplicity rather than luxurious. Not all cabin plastics have the texturing and tactile feel that match class pacesetters.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Comfortable seats provide good all-around support. The 9-3's standard tilt and telescopic steering column helps tailor a comfortable driving position, though the tallest drivers might want it to go higher and may wish for more rearward seat travel. The 9-3's rear roof pillars and heavy glass tint obscure aft visibility, particularly with the wagon.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
Good head clearance. Knee space in sedans and wagons is disappointingly tight if the front seats are set far back. The same goes for foot space if the front seats aren't elevated. The seat is also too narrow for comfortable three-abreast travel. Rear legroom is cramped in the convertible, and its 2-door body style taxes entry and exit.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 4 | 7 | 4.3 |
Sedans have a tall trunk with considerable volume. SportCombi delivers true wagon utility. All have plenty of interior storage space. The convertible's 12.4-cu-ft trunk is among the largest of any ragtop, but shrinks to 8.3 cu ft when the top is stowed.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 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. The wagon offers SUV versatility with car-like fuel economy. They aren't quite as refined or sporty as their German rivals, but these Saabs also tend to be less expensive. The availability of all-wheel drive further bolsters the 9-3's Recommended status.
Total Score
| 2.0T sedan, automatic | 2.0T convertible, automatic | Aero sedan, manual | Aero SportCombi, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 69 | 61 | 68 | 70 | 65.4 |
Total Score: 67
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