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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2009 Saab 9-3

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2011 Saab 9-3

Overview

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2009 Saab 9-3 Review

By KBB.com Editors

Saab claimed a whopping 2,157 changes and enhancements for its premium compact 9-3 series in 2008, so it should come as no surprise changes for 2009 are relatively few. A new Cross-Wheel Drive (XWD) option is available on 9-3 sedan and SportCombi models with the four-cylinder 2.0T. Saab's 9-3 Sedan and SportCombi compete against the Acura TSX, BMW 3 Series, Volvo S60, Audi A4 and the Volvo V50 wagon. Saab also continues to offer the front-drive 9-3 Convertible with a fabric roof.

You'll Like This Car If...

Some shoppers gravitate toward the Saab 9-3 partly because of its "stealth" personality; it delivers more in performance and handling than its straight-forward appearance suggests. Others simply like the car's solid, tight Eurosedan feel, which is likely to be enhanced further yet when the XWD option arrives.

You May Not Like This Car If...

Even more than their Swedish Volvo cousins, Saabs used to be known for various quirks and idiosyncrasies, which fans adored but some others disdained. Things like the console-mounted ignition – a long-standing Saab hallmark – can still prove too peculiar for some.

What's New for 2009

XWD on the base 2.0T model is the big news for 2009. The V6 Aero sees a significant bump up in horsepower, while an electronically controlled limited slip rear differential is added to Aero models with XWD. OnStar 8.0 now features Turn-by-Turn navigation and Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity.

Driving the 9-3

Driving Impressions Each 2009 Saab 9-3 exhibits a serious Eurosedan personality. Confident handling is the rule, especially in Aero trim. An Aero SportCombi exemplifies what the modern wagon experience should be: Well-behaved...

under all conditions. The 2.0T steers with a rather light touch, but one that's sure-footed. Spirited reaction from the 2.0T's engine, even with the automatic, exhibits little turbo lag but suffers a bit of downshifting delay and a slight hesitation on light acceleration. The Aero's V6 feels more effortless, and you immediately notice a difference in handling and roadholding. Aeros can be pushed vigorously into curves, remaining impressively flat and centered, and they ride more taut than front-drive 2.0Ts, but not uncomfortably, overcoming most pavement imperfections without fuss. Harsher bumps produce sharp body motions, but only for a moment. Saab's manual gearbox ranks among the best for easy shifting.

Favorite Features

Sport Button (With Automatic)
For those occasional moments when energetic driving proves irresistible, the Sport button keeps the transmission in each gear long enough to boost responses smartly. Surprisingly, it works better with the 2.0T. Sport operation in the Aero is more stern, and high engine revs get rather raucous.

XWD Availability
As a front-wheel-drive car, the 9-3 is often left out of conversations that include the BMW 3 Series, Infiniti G and other rear-wheel-drive sport sedans. A new performance-enhancing all-wheel drive system should have more people talking about the 9-3.

2009 Saab 9-3 Details

Interior

Sedans and SportCombis have seating for five passengers, versus four for Convertibles. Designers have substituted a black interior for the prior gray. Straightforward in layout, the instrument setup was clearly developed for easy and helpful reading. A big center speedometer is accompanied by relatively large fuel and temperature gauges and a sizable tachometer, but the optional navigation system's screen is rather small. Aero seats, in particular, are seriously sporty, keeping you in place and well-supported as well as comfortable and bolstered – though not excessively snug. Getting used to the console-mounted ignition key doesn't take too long.

Exterior

Influenced by the sleek Aero X concept car, the 2009 Saab 9-3 wears a sweptback face with a semi-wrap-over hood and curtly-tapered three-hole grille, reminiscent of front ends in notable previous Saabs. Aero-style wraparound headlamps can incorporate a headlamp cornering feature, which is standard on Aero models. Aeros have a unique front bumper, plus air intakes and brawny exhaust outlets that "really accent the power," according to Saab. Flared side-sill extensions and rain-sensing wipers are standard. SportCombis are a few inches taller than sedans or convertibles.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Standard equipment includes XM Satellite Radio, GM's OnStar communications system, rain-sensing wipers, a tire-pressure monitoring system and Saab's "quiet tuning" package. On 2.0T models, 14-spoke alloy wheels hold 16-inch tires, whereas Aeros and SportCombi XWD editions roll on 17-inch five-spoke alloys. Buyers of Aero models are entitled to a session at the Aero Academy, to learn to drive their Saabs safely and effectively. Both engines are available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or an automatic transmission, and automatic Aeros may be shifted using steering-wheel paddles.

Optional Equipment

Only a handful of options are offered, including an automatic transmission, power moonroof (for 2.0T models) and a DVD-based navigation system. Semi-aniline leather seat trim, with sport buckets, also is available. The 2.0T's Premium Package includes such extra as high-intensity-discharge headlamps, foglamps, memory for driver's seat and mirrors, rear park assist and walnut wood interior trim. A Cold Weather Package adds headlamp washers and heated front seats.

Under the Hood

In the base-model 2.0T, a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 210 horsepower, driving a six-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic (six-speed auto with XWD). A 280-horsepower, 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 engine goes into Aero models, with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Each automatic includes a manual-shift provision, with a Sport mode that holds gears longer during acceleration and alters the shift points for braking..

2.0-liter in-line 4 Turbocharged
210 horsepower @ 5500 rpm
221 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/29 (manual); 19/26 (automatic, sedan), 18/24 (automatic, SportCombi), 18/26 (manual XWD), 17/27 (automatic, XWD)

2.0-liter in-line 4 Turbocharged
210 horsepower @ 5500 rpm
221 horsepower @ 2000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/29 (manual), 19/28 (automatic), 18/26 (manual, XWD), 17/27 (automatic, XWD)

2.8-liter V6 Turbocharged
280 horsepower @ 5000 rpm
295 lb.-ft. of torque @ 1900 rpm (XWD)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/24

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2009 Saab 9-3 Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.2

Out of 10

Based on 546 Ratings for the 2003 - 2011 models.

Review this car

Value

8.4/10

Quality

8.4/10
Reliability

8.5/10

Performance

8.9/10
Comfort

8.8/10

Styling

9.0/10

Fantastic Luxury Sports Car, Extremely Fast

By SaabTurbo1 (MA) on Thursday, July 25, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 118,500

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Fast, fun to drive, great price, luxurious"

Cons: "No longer produced, repairs can be costly"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"An awesome luxury sports car, my Saab 9-3 is incredible in the speed and acceleration departments. It handles corners well, is great off the line, and is whisper quiet except for the whoosh of the turbocharger when the peddle is down. It's almost unbelievable how fast this thing is with all stock parts. It's also a really nice looking sports car, and has a lot of features that come standard: convertible top for the warm weather, which is great for going to the beach; heated leather seats for the winter; programmable climate control; steering wheel radio controls; CD player; great sound system; power windows; driver and passenger side air bags; leather wrapped steering wheel; power windows/doors/seats/mirrors; heated mirrors; alarm system; chip key; and so much more. Would recommend this car if you are looking for something luxurious but also sporty."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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Best car i have ever had.

By DenverDriver (CO) on Tuesday, July 16, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 53,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "handling, looks, performance, no turbo lag."

Cons: "base model not equipped as well as competitors."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"When i was on the market for a car i test drove a 08-328xi a 2010-tsx and the 2011 saab 9-3, i must say that all of the cars mentioned are great but there was something about the saab that made me choose it over the other ones. it drives so nicely and handles great, the bimmer handles great as well but you see them on every corner and i don't like the reliability reported on most of them. overall i would recommend a saab to everyone they are great cars!"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Terrific car - reliable and fun

By Frida (MN) on Monday, July 15, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 57,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "fun, reliable, understated yet attractive"

Cons: "was a little pricey; parts are expensive"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"This car is terrific. It drives well, really holds the road, has great acceleration and get's pretty good gas mileage for a 6 cylinder (9-3 Aero, 6-spd manual). I took it on a 1/2-country trip (Midwest to East Coast) and averaged 31mpg! Around town and for short highway trips, it's more like 21-24, but that's still good. I have the winter package (heated seats and mirrors; headlight washers; fog lights, front and rear) and it certainly comes in handy in MN! I would agree that the parts and labor can be expensive and difficult to find; but I have a reliable mechanic who loves SAABs and does fair, honest work. As well, this car has not been a troublesome vehicle. It's been reliable and has held-up very well. I'm considering getting a second one with a convertible top!"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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I love my SAAB 9-3 Aero

By Christa (IN) on Wednesday, April 24, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 101,323

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "handles great at 100mph. great car for great price"

Cons: "not much room for back seat riders."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I purchased this car new. I have driven it in Europe and it held up well on the roads and drove well at higher speeds authorized there. I did not need much service work on the vehicle for the first 3 years. The last 3 years I have had regular maintence, had to have the front coils replaced as well as the sway bar link. I have had a few other misc items done to the vehicle, but I do as much preventative matenience as I can. I have plenty of room in the driver and passenger areas, I love my Saab and will do everything I can to keep it for as long as I can. Take care of your Saab and it will take care of you. All I wish is the emblems stayed on it!!!"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Best overall value in a car at the price point.

By Cris (WI) on Thursday, March 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 91,499

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "great handling, styling & options. Impressive!"

Cons: "road noise may be a problem for some. Not me."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I am thoroughly impressed with the 2004 Saab 9-3 Aero.It's a classy car and a good family car, my children are nearly in their teen years and are actually enthusiastic to drive in it."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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AMAZING DRIVING EXPERIENCE

By a3ro747 (FL) on Thursday, December 13, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 150,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "price,fun to drive, build quality,functions"

Cons: "parts cost,availability of parts,resale value"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"i've owned this car for a few months now and i have to say this car is a great vehicle. i live in florida so i have my top down at least 5 times a week. i do my own maintenance so its not too expensive to maintain, car is super reliable even with 150k+ miles, no cel's or troubles of any kind, the cons of this car is the resale value, and the availability of parts ex- a hose broke 3 months ago and if ordered at the dealer it would have taken 5-8 weeks to arrive ( a $19 part), i had to manufacture it myself.other than that i recommend this car"

8 people out of 9 found this review helpful

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See all 546 reviews