Saab 9-3 Convertible (2007-) Review

Overview

• Next: Reliability and Quality

The good-looking 9-3 Convertible, a four-seater with a traditional cloth top, has consistently sold out its rivals from BMW, Audi and Mercedes for a number of years. It scores on its solidity and safety (it's achieved a five-star Euro NACP score) as well as its style - and the fact that it undercuts the German models on price helps too.

Saab launched an all-new 9-3 Convertible in 2004 - a huge advance on its predecessor, offering much-improved driving dynamics, refinement and general abilities - and has now made mid-cycle updates (summer 2007).

The engine line-up now includes a 180bhp diesel engine, badged 1.9 TTiD and a 255bhp 2.8 V6 Turbo, as well as 150bhp, 175bhp and 210bhp four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo engines, the 150bhp 1.9 TiD diesel and the 175bhp and 200bhp Biopower engines, which can run on E85 fuel (an 85% ethanol/petrol blend). Transmission options include revised five- and six-speed manual gearboxes, and five- or six-speed auto 'boxes with sequential shift modes.

The XWD four-wheel-drive system, new to the 9-3 saloon and Sportwagon, may be offered at a later date.