Owner reviews for the Saab 9 3
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Overall rating 4.5/5The Saab 9-3 is a distinctive family car that’s famed for its cosy and unmistakable Scandinavian style.
London
London
Slough
Wokingham
Wokingham
Wokingham
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4.5/5Thoughtful safety features and a spacious interior make it an interesting option for those craving comfort in their daily drive. Drivers first fell in love with the Saab 9-3 when it hit the road in 1998, with models running through to 2011. Available as a saloon, estate (SportWagon), and convertible, the 9-3 was known for its sturdy safety record and driving comfort. The earliest iterations have a sportier, hatchback look, while later generations – especially from 2002 onwards – cut a sleeker figure. While the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 do turn heads, the Saab 9-3 gets the edge by giving you more standard kit for your money. From heated seats to turbocharged engines, there’s plenty to enjoy across the range – and with excellent seat support and clear controls, every drive feels effortless. But while the 9-3 is safe and sensible, its handling isn't as sharp as some German alternatives.
All Saab 9-3s are packed with safety features including front, side and curtain airbags, head restraints, anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control. Some of the later models had Isofix child seat anchors as standard, and their robust crash protection bought them a solid reputation for safety.
Earlier first-generation 9-3s (1998–2002) featured petrol and diesel engines from 1.8 to 2.3 litres, with turbo versions available. Second-generation models (2002–2011) saw a wider range, including 1.8, 2.0 and 2.8-litre petrol turbos plus popular 1.9-litre diesel and TTiD units.
Most Saab 9-3s come well-equipped, including air-conditioning, alloy wheels, electric windows and a quality sound system. Higher-spec trims bring leather seats, cruise control and climate control. Bluetooth and sat nav were optional on later models, so availability varies.
Fuel economy is not an exact science and your engine choice makes a big difference. Later 1.9-litre diesel models can return up to 62 mpg according to official figures, while petrol engines typically offer 25–35 mpg. Turbocharged diesels are popular for their mix of punch and low running costs, which is especially useful if you're racking up the miles.
Be sure to give the service history a good once over and confirm that all electrical functions (windows, air con, infotainment) work as they should. Early diesels can wear their high-mileage hard, so keep an eye out for signs of turbo or injector issues. To banish your doubts, consider using The AA Vehicle Inspection service.
The Saab 9-3 has generally proven dependable, especially later models from 2006 onward. Parts supply is still reasonable in the UK, but it’s worth checking you have access to a good independent Saab specialist. Regular servicing will help you avoid problems with diesel engines and electrical systems.