Used 2010 Saab 9-3

With its trademark Saab styling, room for four persons and a power-operated soft-top, the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible is a favorite with sun worshipers and Saab enthusiasts everywhere. Compared to the first few generation Saab convertibles, the newest 9-3 is far more rigid, far more reliable and a fair bit quicker. The 9-3’s upswept beltline creates a tall trunk that allows for plenty of luggage even when the top is retracted, and the choice between base or Aero trim – both powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine – means no matter which model you choose, sluggish acceleration will never be an issue.

Though not as gutsy as last year’s turbo V6, the 210-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the 2010 Saab 9-3 Aero model is still a joy to drive. The smaller and lighter four-cylinder turbo adds less weight to the 9-3’s front end, making this engine ideally suited to those who love tearing through corners. The 9-3’s strong engine is complemented by responsive steering, strong brakes and a choice of two smooth-shifting transmissions. While the rear-wheel-drive BMW 3 Series Convertible still sets the category standard for driving dynamics, the 9-3 delivers more athleticism than most drivers will ever care to attempt to wring from such a vehicle.

Like the Sedan, the 2010 9-3 Convertible sticks to the traditional Saab instrument panel and center-console ignition key design (except that now you don’t have to have the car in reverse to remove the key). An excellent set of sport seats holds you comfortably for hours and, with the power top in place, the interior is nearly as quiet as a 9-3 Sedan. The rear seat has been narrowed to accommodate the top, but you can still squeeze two passengers back there for short trips. The 9-3’s trunk is surprisingly accommodating.

The sleek look that has always defined Saab convertibles is present in this one as well. The three-port split grille, low front air dam and wraparound headlamps work perfectly with the low-slung body and high rear deck. The convertible top stows neatly beneath a body-colored tonneau cover, which produces an uncluttered silhouette. Aero models show off with a sleek rear spoiler and more aggressive lower body cladding.

Roll Bar
Especially when driving the performance-oriented Aero model, it’s nice to know you have pop-up roll bar protection.

Console-Mounted Ignition
The center console-mounted ignition continues a long-standing Saab tradition.

The 2010 Saab 9-3 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, six-speed manual transmission, traction control, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, automatic climate control, rear fog light, remote keyless entry, power driver’s seat, dual heated power mirrors with turn signals, front side-impact airbags, AM/FM stereo with CD and auxiliary audio input jack, a power top, glass rear window, leather seating, cruise control, leather-wrapped tilt wheel with touch controls and 17-inch alloy wheels. The Aero features front fog lights, two-tone leather seating, wood trim interior, 300-watt 10-speaker audio, 17-inch wheels with V-rated tires, OnStar, SIRIUS/XM Satellite Radio and a six-speed manual transmission.

Options include a five-speed automatic with manual shift control, six-disc CD changer and DVD-based navigation. The 2.0T offers the Comfort Package that adds a garage door opener, headlamp washers, heated front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror and "Express Up" power front windows with remote control. The Aero Premium Package adds a power passenger seat, HID cornering headlamps, dual heated power folding mirrors with auto-dimming feature, memory for the driver’s seat and mirrors and Rear Park Assist.

The 2010 Saab 9-3 2.0T and Aero models offer a choice of six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions. The automatic transmission includes a manual-shift provision, with a Sport mode that holds gears longer during acceleration and alters the shift points for braking. The 2.0T’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides plenty of punch, nearly imperceptible turbo lag and very reasonable fuel economy.

2.0-liter in-line 4 Turbocharged
210 horsepower @ 5500 rpm
221 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/29 (manual), 19/27 (automatic)