Saab 9-3 Sedan

saablcp · September 2005

F.Y.I.: '06 Saab models have never been subject to the "G.M.employee pricing for
everyone" promotion.'06 G.M. employee purchasing is subject to the traditional qualifying standards.

birdboy · September 2005

has anyone seeen the sportcombi in any showrooms as of yet. I was told Oct 23rd for upstate new york.. Also, has anyone out there gotten better than 28mpg with their 2005 automatic 43 cyl Saab9-3 Thanks..

bigfeets · September 2005

Has anyone else had problem of shoe hitting computer troubleshooting terminal which is located above and between brake pedal and accelerator in recent 9-3's? If so, any known cases of service department being able to relocate the terminal and wires?

airpower · September 2005

Dear Future Combi Buyer -

I own a 2005 Saab 9-3 convertible 2.0t (Linear) with a five speed manual transmission.

This is my 5th Saab, and I love everything about it except for the radio system.

I drive 70 miles a day in a 60/40 highway/city mix. I currently have 2,751 miles on the car and keep track of my miles per gallon on a spreadsheet. I average 70MPH on the highway.

I have so far averaged 29.72 miles per gallon.

schoup · September 2005

With the new total value promise by GM that you will no longer see huge incentives on Saab throughout the year. What Saab is trying to do is the following. I use to work for GM so I have friends who told me the scoop.

Saab is attempting to create a buying process that is percieved by the customer as simple and direct. ...less haggling, incentives, rebates. By closing the gap between MSRP and transaction the aim is to continue the strong flow of traffic into the stores and stabilize residual values. To offset this new pricing structure the level of incentive spending will not be as high as in past years . However, they are not eliminating incentives. There will continue to be an appropriate level of incentives available for each model in order to remain competitive. Also, it should be noted that your available percentage margins on vehicles and options will not be impacted for the dealers. So they still get there 2.2% holdback, etc.

The example given to me was :
The MY2006 9-3 2.0T Sport Sedan when popularly equipped with metallic paint, automatic transmission, heated seats, and sunroof is nearly $1600 less than a similarly equipped MY05 9-3 Linear. Plus the popularly equipped version of the MY06 9-3 2.0T Sport Sedan features more power (at 210hp vs. 175hp), body color exterior trim, automatic climate control, wood dﾃｩcor interior trim, and headlamp washers.

・ｽ The MY05 9-3 Arc Sport Sedan had a starting MSRP of $30,250. For approximately the same price ($30,245) a MY06 9-3 2.0T Sport Sedan comes with all the equipment found on a MY05 9-3 Arc PLUS metallic paint, automatic transmission, heated seats, xenon lights, 6-disc CD changer, and moonroof

Essentially, what I am gatherinf is that getting a Saab at invoice is going to be a reasonable deal. Those $1500-2500 rebates that were around a good portion of last year even before GM emplyee pricing went into effect aren't going to be around unless Saab hits a real market sales slump.

Any comments.

wmquan · September 2005

I'm sure that's what GM is hoping, but the market will dictate the reality. The 9-3 is now mature in its lifecycle, and, SportCombi aside, it's not as if the sales are going to grow. Even the SportCombi won't likely be a huge seller. Overall, 9-3 sales are much more likely to decline than increase.

There is just too much competition (older and newer) in this segment, and I'm sure we'll see significant incentives. Will they be as deep as before? Probably not. Will we be able to buy similarly equipped 9-3's at the same price as during the heavy incentives/employee discount period? You bet.

birdboy · September 2005

thanks airpower,I presently own a 2002 passat tubo and have had 4.5 good years with only a few reliability setbacks. I test drove the 06 2.0t 9-3 auto and really liked the ride and feel. It was similar to the passat but with a bit more roadfeel>Two very important features in a car to me aside from the drive are the seat comfort (a plus for the saab) and the sound system. The posts that I read were very discouraging about the stereo used. Is the upgrade any better? Since the info center is connected to the radio , I would assume after market radios are a no no? How is the Saab in snow ? Also thanks for the thoughts about GM and pricing. I am hoping to catch a good discount or I may go for the new 06 Passat similarly equppped for thousands less minus the hatch/wagon. any advice or guidance is greatly appreciated.

birdboy · October 2005

listened to the base 130 watt radio yesterday in an 06 9-3. I found it to be much like you all have been reporting. Will the bumped up amp and a speaker change remedy this ? The radio is not the most important feature to me , however sound quality does interfere with the wow factor. I am sure the same radio will be offerered in the 9-3 combi. Any recommended remedies? Thanks

whskvs · October 2005

Just checking back in after leasing a 9-3 Vector 2 1/2 years ago. While it is a *blast* to drive and sticks to the road like glue, it has been the worst car I've ever had in terms of things going wrong with it (next to a used Ford Escort I bought at 16 y.o.). From the steering column having to be replaced at two weeks, to going over a bump and the entire car going dark, to going away on vacation and having the car be dead when we got back - twice, a year apart - to seat belts locking up, to the car locking us out, to the keys not working in the ignition...you name it.

Caveat emptor.

freaking102 · October 2005

I used this board quite a bit a few years ago before I bought my 2001 9-3 (bought certified used with extended warranty). My 2001 9-3's warranty is expiring at xmas, so gotta sell -- and thought I would tell y'all about the great Saab warranties and service. Warranty was great: covered 2 DI cassettes, 2 turbos, one computer display, one broken AC knob, one new sunroof (replaced the whole thing to rectify weatherstripping that peeled), some kind of loose exhaust manifold, one alternator, one oil drip (I think this was an oil pump replacement), and a lot of days in loaner cars. I highly recommend that you own a Saab under warranty, the service departments are great. The loaners were a blast. Get to know your service rep by name so you can get a Saab loaner rather than being put into an econo rental -- flirt a little! I only recommend you own past warranty if you are independantly wealthy!

fsmmcsi · October 2005

How do those who have the current model 9-3 like the front seats? I bought the Chevy Malibu version of the car and the seat is giving me lower back pain due to the lousy bottom cushion and lower back cushion, but I see that the Saab seats is somewhat different, so am thinking of changing to the Saab foam and cover (I know it would not be cheap, but it would be way cheaper than replacing the Malibu).

saablcp · October 2005

Chevy Malibu version of the 9-3??????.The only similarities between a Malibu and the 9-3 are platform.So....someone buying a Camry sedan just bought the Toyota version of the Lexus RX330 S.U.V.? Anyway..... Saab seats have long been the standard by which the industry is judged,incredibly comfortable and supportive for both short and long term driving.As to compatibility in any other interiors you start getting into federal safety standards and may have to pursue this through a licensed handicap conversion outlet to make sure any changes are in compliance with federal safety standards regarding seating

r34 · October 2005

I think some people were confused of the shared platform. Yes, 9-3SS shared the same platform with Malibu and G6 but they are quiet different. It is not liked Camry/ES330 or Passat/A4. Those are more aliked (they look aliked too).

9-3SS has much more superior engine management system, suspension, interior, and it was made in Swedan. There were certain things didn't get carried over to other GM vehicles.

9-3 has comfortable but I think the old 9-3 hatchback has much more comfortable seats than 9-3SS (thanks GM !! Look what you did to 9-3 !).

dhanley · October 2005

In some way the new 9-3 was a step backwards.

The interior is not as roomy or as comfortable, and the interior is definitely lower quality.
Quite a bit of "practicality" has been lost, some from loss of hatchback, but not just that.
The old turbo engine had more "kick"

On the other hand, the new car handles a lot better, and the lack of turbo lag makes the car a lot more tractable in normal driving conditions.

mcclearyfl · October 2005

My 2002-SE with 30,000 miles has been remarkably free of problems, and the lease was due to expire in January 2006. I have now paid off the outstanding lease and have purchased the car.

A major Saab promotion was free service up to and including the 30,000 mile service, with a 36 month limit. But my lease was for 48 months, so I finished up paying over $500 at 46 months. What possible difference is there to Saab if the 30,000 mile service is performed after 46 months instead of 36? This is effectively discriminating against low-mileage owners.

Normally I would just have ignored the service and returned the unserviced vehicle in two months to Saab. My decision to purchase, however, made this service important, since I was also able to get a clean bill of health on the car's mechanical condition. Nevertheless, why not a free service for 30,000 miles when the service is within the lease period?

mcclearyfl · October 2005

Couldn't agree more. During the 30,000 mile service on my 2002 (see above post) I was loaned a 2005 9-3. I was astounded how cheap the interior appeared (and my loaner had leather heated seats, so it wasn't your base 9-3). Controls seemed less substantial. There is no elegant wood trim on the dash. Tire noise remains unacceptable. It was peppier from traffic lights (it was an automatic; my 2002 is stick shift) but sluggish at higher highway speeds. Contrary to DHanley, however, I found the steering imprecise -- though lower effort than the 2002.

One big advantage of my brief experience with a 2005 -- it confirmed in spades that I made a great decision in sticking with my 2002.

dhanley · October 2005

I didn't say the steering was better-but handling. Take a corner too fast on the old and new 9-3 and the new 9-3--the SS is much better at this.

r34 · October 2005

The old 9-3 has much better seats (better leather & more comfortable). The side backup lights are good. The road feel is stronger (maybe just to me), The hatchback is more useful and unique. However, the body roll is quiet serious and it has more rattle noise.

Yes, 9-3SS has better handling and "more up-to-date" but I cannot stand the vinyl-like leather seats, non-hydraulic trunk handle,.

I test drove both but I ended up with a certified 9-3 hatchback because it is more liked a Saab and the hatchback is more useful and unique.

k34 · October 2005

I have a 03 93 and have had problems with weather seals around the windows. The window actually got stuck because of the weather seal and ultimately broke the window regulator which cost $960.00 to repair. My car is less than 3 years old , but because mileage was over 50,000, Saab says it's not their problem. (Obviously, one of the quirks about Saabs is that the more miles a day you put on the engine, the more it affects your power windows.)
Customer service has been rude at best. I enjoy driving my car,(soon to be someone else's though) but with so many choices I figure it's time to move on. Anyone else having these issues-- if not look out. The service dealer says he has seen this same window issue multiple times. Also, any advice for dealing with customer servce would be helpful.

kylep86 · November 2005

i posted a question on another saab board here but didn't really get too much advice. At the moment i have a 04 jetta gls 1.8t with all the works (leather, heated seats, multi-function steering wheel, etc.) If i were to get another car i would want all the same features, and i know saab would have all of them. I'm thinking about trading it in on a certified 9-3 se, around a 2002. Does anyone have any advice to say about the 9-3's that could help me out? anything...Thanks.

pat · November 2005

Well, there are a lot of comments here already that may be helpful to you. If you haven't yet, you might try paging back or using the Search This Discussion feature. It would be helpful if you asked specific questions, also.

diehldun · November 2005

but I'm currently in the market for an entry-level, luxury/sport car for my son (high-school). He's done really well in school, so mom and I have decided to reward him with a new car sometime in January. (He's hinted that he likes all of the below). Here's what we're looking at:

2006 Audi A3 2.0 T
I've had my eye on this one for a while. However, when I compare it side-by-side to the Lexus IS, I see a huge different in terms of interior quality, value, etc.

2006 Lexus IS250 AWD
He's planning on going east-coast for college, and we've had great experiences with Lexus. I can get a relatively good deal on them. The GPS is a must.

2006 Saab 9-3 2.0T/Aero SportCombi
I have a feeling we're going to end up getting this one. We've never owned a Saab, and I'll be honest with you guys: Saab sounds lika cult to me :shades: that's really quirky. We never seriously considered the 9-3 until we heard about the SportCombi.

Here's the question: are the differences (performance, value, luxury, etc.) noticible between the 2.0T and the Aero? Given that this will be his first car, we want to buy a safe, "luxurious" but somewhat sporty ride that's reasonably priced. And is the GPS navigation popular? I know it probably isn't in the same league as Lexus' system.

(Sorry for so many questions!) Is this a good time to buy the 9-3? It seems like the 9-3 sedans are sort of midcycle. GM isn't planning on pulling the plug on Saab anytime soon, right? :confuse:

Thanks a bunch! I've been a longtime viewer of the townhall, finally joined!

dc_dave · November 2005

Let me get this straight, you are rewarding your H.S. student with either a Saab, Lexus or Audi, Wow! FWIW, I am starting my dissertation for my PhD this summer and I'm rewarding myself with either the Audi A3 3.2 DSG S-line or the Sportcombi Aero. I'm leaning towards the Saab for three reasons: 1) I like the way the Aero Sportcombi looks better 2) Better overall value, more standard features 3) I'm more likely to get a great deal.

The Audi wins in terms of interior and all-wheel drive. I can't wait to test drive them both. Man, I wish I had you as a parent!

Dave in VA

gormerod · November 2005

I have a 2005 9-3 Arc (the same as the 2006 2.0T model) with the drivers package. In my experience, it has plenty of performance, good handling, and luxury. The Aero may be more than what you need. Also, placing a car with more power and speed than the 2.0T in to the hands of high school aged driver could be dangerous.

Good luck!

baritono · December 2005

Hi,
Thank you for this wonderful forum.
I am a happy owner of the 9-3 Arc, manual shift. I would appreciate if anyone with the same car experiences anything like this: I hear a rhythmical tik-tik-tik from the engine when not in gear. It does gets faster with acceleration, but goes away (or is being masked) by road nose, wind, engine power etc..Even though I bought it this week, I've already had a test drive with a manager from the dealer. He hears it as well, but assured me it is simply the "sound of the engine," and that" every car has its own unique engine sound." Friends, is the sound coming from your engine in the cabin while parked, noticeable? I have also mentioned to him that I feel the shifting from gear 1 to gear 2 is not as smooth as shifting from 2-3-4-3. Maybe I am being paranoid, but I spent a lot of $$ for my baby and I want to make sure I'll stay happy for years to come!!! Thank you in advance for any responses.
Gus

mark_wny · December 2005

The current Consumer Reports Car Guide says, to put it bluntly, that the Saab 9-3 is a lemon. I've seen the car in showrooms and I like it - but I'm wary, given CR's position. As Saab guys, what is your feedback?

gormerod · December 2005

I have a 9-3 2005 Arc with manual transmission and have no ticking noises or shift problems. I have doubts about the manager's explanation of your car's unique engine sound.

gormerod · December 2005

I purchased my 2005 9-3 in June of this year and have had absolutely no problems. I also noticed that CR's benchmark in this year's annual auto issue (their idea of an average rating) has high marks in almost every category.

I will not argue that Saabs will be as perfect as an Acura or Lexus, but I definitely do not see Saabs as lemons. I would not give up on what you like for CR's idea of perfection only to get bored with the car shortly after. Saab has its own unique look and following that appeals to me - it is not like every other car on the road.

Good luck!

saablcp · December 2005

First off if you use them as your only reference source you will eliminate virtually every car built in Europe regardless of manufacturer.I have 34,000 miles on my '03 Vector..car has not been flawless but no problems that could not be fixed in one day by service.Will replace car in April with another Saab 9-3,this time the Aero V-6.However,I am somewhat considering the restyled '06 9-5.It's really bigger than I need though.Kind of like deciding between a 3 and 5 series BMW.My other problems with C.R. would be the fact that there is often a significant discrepancy between their projected reliability of a model and the same cars posted used vehicle reliability history.They also do not give any insight into the nature of a cars reported problem areas.If it has a bad electrical system reliability history...what caused it? Does the wiring harness catch on fire or was there a run of bad power seat regulators that a tech can replace in 5 minutes while you wait?They also continue to mindlessly criticize certain cars for the same things year after year.YES! cars with handling pkgs.and low profile performance tire ride stiff and harsh!!YES!Compact and sub-compact cars hve limited rear seat room!!! YES!Convertibles have small trunks and more wind noise than sedans!!WHO DOES'NT KNOW THESE THINGS!Yet you'll continue to read them in reviews.Frnakly I think they should stick to rating refrigerators!

mark_wny · December 2005

to gormerod and saablcp, for your advice.

mooselook · December 2005

I just completed my lease on a 2003 9-3. Did I enjoy the car? Yes, absolutely. I always felt good about driving it. However, it was also the most problem-prone car I have ever owned (see my posts on this board). Other vehicles I have owned, have for the most part, been Japanese, but there's been a few American cars and an Audi A4 in the mix too. You're going to give up some reliability for the fun factor. In my experience, Consumer Reports has been pretty right-on, but they cannot measure how you feel when you drive your car. I don't regret my three years with the Saab, but I didn't lease another one...
Regards,
--***Mooselook***--

sloanesq · December 2005

CR is correct. The 9-3 is a lemon. I have a 2003 Arc and I have (sadly) gotten to know my dealer's service department very well. Two new recalls just were issued and I live in fear of he next message I will see on the information display that ends in "...Contact your Saab dealer." Stay far away from the Saab.

schoup · December 2005

Saabs reliability has inproved since 2003. The lesson is never buy the first year of a model that has major changes. 2003 was the first year of the 9-3 sedans and the end of the hatchbacks.

esfoad · December 2005

I agree with ^^^. We have an 04 9-3 aero convertible. 2nd year model but first year convertible. For us it's an awesome car. Our second Saab, replace an 01 convertible. So far no problems at all! Dealer service is fantastic (Reinertsen Motors in Denville NJ) and other than a couple of recalls, always done either while I wait or with a loaner car, no problems. I say give 'em a chance especially since the warranty is so good. Then change it before the warranty's over if you've had problems.

mark_wny · December 2005

what a forum!

tomw · December 2005

My experience with a 2003 9-3 matches the CR rating. Terrible. Electrical issues. Numerous (apparently irrepairable) squeeks and rattles. Window regulate went out. Various recalls. The WORST production stereo system in the market today (the Chevy Cavalier that I was given for a loaner had a much better sounding system.

I leased a SAAB 9-5 before, and it was a great car.

I attribute the difference to the fact that in 2000 GM took full control of SAAB, and apparently has decided to ratchet the quality down to GM levels (the 9-5 was designed before GM took full control, whereas the 9-3 was designed after GM took full control. In fact the 9-3 shares its platform with the Chevy Malibu and Pontiac G-6).

Avoid at all costs - between the 9-3 and 9-7 it is clear that SAAB's are, unfortunately, now just badge-engineered pieces of standard GM crap.

schoup · December 2005

I'm debating between two offers:

2005 Aero silver metallic, heated seats, automatic, xenon lights MSRP$36,595 sell for $28,967

2006 2.0T silver metallic, heated seats, automatic, premium pkg, moonrooof MSRP$32,165 sell for $29,500

530ir1150r · December 2005

If you plan to keep the car for more than 5 years, get the 2005; less, the 2006.

sloanesq · December 2005

You might be right, it certainly can't be worse. A friend of mine also has an '03 and he says he has had only some of the problems I've experienced. If the car were problem free, then it would definitely be a very good buy for the money. For my part though, I will never buy another Saab.

snaab1 · December 2005

I leased one of the early 2003 9-3's which had problems including door lock failure, driver side power seat motor failure, stereo that defaulted back to the 1st station setting every time you went to change stations, overly sensitive alarm (I never locked the doors for last 2 years), theft alarm would go off WHILE DRIVING, etc. I am now leasing a 2006 9-3 2.0T and can report 4 months of problem-free driving. I definately chalk the problems up to first-year bugs. But stay away from off-lease '03 models. I got sick of going to the dealer for warranty work and just lived with the problems until early lease turn-in.

blckislandguy · December 2005

Sorry for the late post. I guess I was stuned by the whole idea. I think IMHO that this list of cars is not the way to go.

A new Lexus for a HS kid?? Why not a men's dress hat and an Chesterfield overcoat?

A new Audi or a new Saab?? Whoa, this kid won't have any of the learning experiences that come from owning a four year or older car. These experiences while seemingly trivial are important in his developement into a self sufficient adult. They include first echelon car maintenace (fluids, tires, batteries, etc.), learning how to get along with garage employees who may not have gone to college, how to jump a battery safely, how to change a tire, how to buy replacement parts (OEM dealer vs aftermarket), and so forth.

Please consider an older Volvo, preferably not AWD, or a 9-5 Saab. He would learn to be a better driver if it were simply FWD with good winter tires. A used Audi will kill you in maintenace and most are quatrro. Make the buying process educational. Buy used, let him learn about CarFax, Edmunds.com, how to negotiate, etc. etc. If you don't agree with me and your kid grows up to be a self-centered individual who has no idea about how to buy, maintain, and drive a vehicle, and he panics when his Hummer gets a wheel bearing noise during his first convoy out to the airport....

jworthington · December 2005

I am seriously debating this issue. I cannot decide which one I want or need to go with.

I am looking at an Aero with everything at a military discount price of $29,759 + TTL. That is HARD to beat and within what I want to pay. Great safety ratings and a distinct look are what I am most pleased about. 2 years free maintenance is a big selling factor. The size is a little smaller than the TL in the backseat, though. (two kids in car seats)

Recently, I was turned on to the Acura TL w/Nav. Frankly speaking, the SAAB Nav sucks and the Acura is absolutely first rate. This is a big selling point along with the fact that the car (nav, climate, and radio) are all voice activated AND XM radio is included in the radio--something no so with the Aero.

I found an '05 TL loaded for between $30k and $31k with 5800 miles. I am going to offer, I believe, $31,500 for a new TL with the same package.

Which one do you all recommend. This decision is incredibly hard because they both offer me different things I want. Now, reliability....I am afraid I must go with the Acura on that one unless someone can tell me otherwise.

Thanks.

Jeff

dhanley · December 2005

I think your observations are generally in line with mine. The TL's nav is doubtlessly better and it has a few nicer options, and will *probably* be more reliable. The 9-3's perks are (to me) it's more-fun driving, safety(though the TL is still quite safe), and distinctness.

It's up to you which of those matter more.

jworthington · December 2005

Just bought the '05 TL w/ 6k miles and NAVI. Hard decision but when you figured that I saved $3k from a new TL that the dealer was trying to sell and I it was only $500 more than the SAAB, I had to take it.

1. Reliability
2. Resale value (heck, I might as well be a used car lot with the rate I go through cars)
3. Features
4. NAV and Bluetooth

I pick her up in Providence this weekend and begin the trek back to NC.

kk2482 · December 2005

When a car clicks in general it is usually one of two things

1. The oil wasn't changed correctly the last time it was maintained. Even a dealership can mess up on this - sad, but true. This can burn up your engine and the dealer should pay for it if this happens.

2. The spark plugs need to be changed.

*knowing that you are purchasing this vehicle new I would be quite leary and make sure the problem is fixed.

A very close friend just leased a 2005 93 Arc and when it had the clicking sound the dealership said it was 2 things - the sparks needed changing, and the oil filter wasn't changed out the last time it was maintained.

*my main question for you would be - was this car a dealer demo? if so then the oil and sparks may have needed replacing - but not at a few 1000 miles!! sheesh. Good luck with everything.

kk2482 · December 2005

It sounds like you have already made up your mind.

Acura TL
Navigation System is 1st Rate!
Voice Activ. Controls *all buttons
XM Radio included

SAAB Aero
Navigation System sucks
No voice activ.controls
Doesn't include XMRadio
A+ Safety Ratings
Distinct Look
2yrs $0 cost Maint.
Small Backseat

*** My biggest suggestion is for you to check out the following link and review the total costs for each car. The ratings are quite useful, and you can compare your selection with similar vehicles. Maybe this will help in making your final decision

***

http://www.edmunds.com/apps/cto/CTOintroController

Average Per Mile Cost to Own
05 SAAB Aero
$0.70

05 Acura TL
$0.63

jworthington · December 2005

Great website. Thanks!

ed108 · January 2006

Hey all,

I have an '04 Aero Convertible, 19K miles. I bought it certified about 4 months ago with 15K miles. In general it has been pretty good and lots of fun to drive - my wife drives it most of the time and she's absolutely in love with it. It's a great summer car (and living in Las Vegas means we have 9 months of summer, took it out today with the top down)

Two things that bug me about it:

1. A noise that comes from the driver's vent. When you accelerate it is a soft grrr sound. I took it to the dealer they can't figure it out. Initially they pretended they couldn't hear it until I convinced them that it was there. They kept the car for a week and couldn't find out what it was. Any ideas? Anyone else have this?

2. The mirror creaks like crazy when going over bumps and every road where I live is bumpy. Nothing seems to be broken, just cheap plastic that is not put together well.
Can you buy spare mirrors and re-install?

mberenson · January 2006

I am interested in buying a 2006 saab 9-3 sport sedan. I am wary because I have read conflicting stories as to their reliability, particluar fixing them. Any truth to this from your experience.

wmquan · January 2006

"Conflicting" stories on reliability simply means that some people have a lot of problems, others don't. Statistically, you are going to be more likely to have problems with a 9-3 than, say, a Japanese brand vehicle.

It also means that a lot of your ownership experience will be influenced by the quality of the dealership's service department. E.g. can they fix problems quickly without requiring repeated visits, and do they work with the customers well?

You should ask owners here about the Saab dealerships in your particular area before buying. If they are good, and you can put up with issues here and there, then a 9-3 is worth consideration. If not, look elsewhere.

I'm sure the 2006's will be improved over the 2003 I have. But, personally, I couldn't bring myself to buy one. My 2003 is coming off lease and I'm glad I leased it (back when they were being heavily subsidized). It's obviously had its share of issues, made worse by the uneven service experience at Barrier Saab in Bellevue, WA (Barrier dealerships in the Seattle area have issues in general, e.g. I've heard many complaints about Barrier Mercedes-Benz).

I can't imagine buying a 2006 at lease-end and putting up with more issues, more mediocre (or worse) service, and terrible resale at the end of the ownership experience.

It is otherwise a fun vehicle to drive. Saab hasn't mastered the mix of good handling/relatively comfortable ride as their German competitors have, however. But it's cheaper and I like the safety. Taking reliability out of things, the vehicle is a good value. Safety, fun, and plenty of equipment for the price. I just don't want to own one.

Saab 9-3 Sedan

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