Saab 9-3 Convertible (2003-) Review

Comfort and Equipment

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The latest Saab Convertible is a quantum leap over the old in terms of comfort. Its massively more rigid body rids the cabin of squeaks, while vastly improved suspension provides a ride quality that is excellent aboard the lower-powered models, and pretty good in the case of the more stiffly sprung Aero. Windscreen shake  the sign of an insufficiently rigid body  is impressively limited. A triple-layer hood cuts the noise level too, the 9-3 pretty quiet at a cruise, although there is some low-frequency buffeting from the rear of the roof at speed.

The engines are disappointingly gruff when revved hard, but their strong pulling power generally means that this isn't necessary. The diesel is a bit clattery on start-up.

Front seats are exceptionally comfortable, the more confined rears less so, but overall the 9-3 is a civilised place to be hood-up, making it an entirely practical four-season machine. Hood down, it's pleasingly light on buffeting, especially if you order the optional wind-stop. The 9-3 Convertible is a full four-seater, but the rear compartment is somewhat confined and, in some dimensions, less roomy than the outgoing model's. That's mostly down to the extra body reinforcement. However, the light-coloured upholstery and headlining help prevent it from feeling too claustrophobic.

The narrowness of the rear seat produces cosy seating, but in contrast to some cabriolets, the backrest is at a comfortable angle, the seats are well shaped and headroom is decent. Legroom is not great, however, and long trips will eventually prove a trial for four. Still, there are no intrusive full-length floor consoles (as in the Volvo C70) to stop rear-seat occupants from stretching their legs out sideways.

Space up front, by contrast, is excellent in every direction. Hood down, the boot is pretty small, but hood up it expands significantly to at least become adequate  an attribute early 9-3 Convertibles lacked. There is also an optional boot-rack for skis, wakeboards and the like, which doubles as a spoiler when not in use.