Saab 9-3 (2002-) Review

Overview

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Sweden takes on Germany

This 9-3 has been Saab's first credible contender in the compact executive market in a long time; not since its definitive 900 Turbo models of the mid '80s could Saab stand alongside BMW, Audi and Mercedes with a well-built, dynamic sports saloon worthy of its badge -and the inevitable high-profile marketing campaign behind it.

Despite a shared basic platform, the 9-3 feels significantly different to its GM relative, the Opel/Vauxhall Vectra, with its own suspension and a far more sporting character. Saab positioned the 9-3 Sport Saloon (its full name) further upmarket than before, hence the 'executive' saloon body style rather than a hatchback; the Sportswagon estate goes up against the likes of the BMW 3-Series Touring, Audi A4 Avant and Volvo V50. There's also the popular Cabriolet (see separate review).

First launched 2002, the 9-3 is now feeling a little dated (an all-new model is not due until 2008) but still holds its own. For 2004, 2.0T Aero and 2.2 TiD models gained six-speed manual transmission as standard, which improved fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions; for 2005, the 2.2 TiD engine is replaced by 150bhp and 120bhp versions of a 1.9-litre diesel unit, more economical and fuel-efficient without sacrificing performance. Also new to the range is the 2.8 V6 (250bhp), an Australian-built Holden engine as used in the closely-related Cadillac CTS, which shares much of the 9-3's underpinnings, and at the other end of the range, the Vauxhall/Opel 1.8i (122bhp). The other Saab petrol engines continue in varying forms, badged 1.8t (150bhp), 2.0t (175bhp) and 2.0T (210bhp).