2008 Saab 9-3 Sedan Review

Sweetened in Sweden

The compact Saab 9-3 Sedan gets a makeover for 2008 that includes revamped styling, more power and added features, including all-wheel drive.

The Saab 9-3 Sedan is the sportiest model to be built off the General Motors global “Epsilon” platform, which also provides the underpinnings for the Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6, and Saturn Aura. While the current generation of Saab’s smallest sedan dates back to 2003, it received a moderate redesign for the 2008 model year, though most changes were cosmetic, rather than functional, in nature.

The 9-3 carries Saab-exclusive styling and components, and preserves such traditional Saab quirks as locating the ignition key low on the center console between the two front seats. The sedan comes in two trim levels, the 2.0T and Aero. A convertible and “SportCombi” wagon version are also available and reviewed separately (go to the Saab Showroom for details).

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The base Saab 9-3 2.0T model comes powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates acceptable acceleration with reasonably good fuel economy. The Saab 9-3 Aero version, meanwhile, features a 2.8-liter V6 that uses variable intake valve timing and a twin-scroll turbocharger to generate about 25 percent more muscle, with added torque for quick launches and strong highway passing abilities.

The Saab 9-3 Sedan offers a slick-shifting, six-speed-manual transmission as standard equipment. We recommend it for driving enthusiasts. Most commuters, on the other hand, will likely prefer the optional automatic, which has five speeds on the Saab 9-3 2.0T and six speeds on the Aero. Both allow manual gear selection for those who like to have it both ways.

A sport-tuned suspension and standard stability control system ensure crisp and secure handling and a comfortable ride. The Saab 9-3 Sedan lands somewhere between the BMW 3 Series (which is more sporty than the Saab) and the Audi A4 (which is less sporty) in terms of overall driving excitement. The Aero variant emphasizes handling over ride comfort, and it leans more toward the BMW in this regard.

The Saab 9-3 Sedan feels agile and is rewarding to drive vigorously. At the same time, it remains comfortable for long-distance cruising.

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Safety is a proud Swedish tradition. The Saab 9-3 Sedan upholds the tradition with standard four-wheel disc antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, traction control, “active” head restraints, and front side and side-curtain airbags. A sophisticated all-wheel-drive system is optional, but only on the Aero.

The system improves traction on slick roads and is supplied by Haldex, which also provides all-wheel-drive systems for fellow Swedish firm Volvo. It is also said to boost acceleration and stability when traveling in a straight line.

Saab 9-3 Sedan Vehicle Summary

The Saab 9-3 Sedan has a tidy, leather-lined cabin that remains quiet on the highway and is sufficiently spacious for four adults, with a fifth able to squeeze into the backseat for short trips. The clean layout and well-designed controls are a nice contrast to the overly complex interiors of so many luxury sedans.

The seats are among the most comfortable and supportive we’ve tested, on par with the BMW 3 Series’. They’re supple, but with the right amount of support in just the right places for long-term comfort.

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Standard features cover all the bases, including GM’s OnStar communications/safety system, XM satellite radio and rain-sensing wipers. The Aero adds items like a premium five-channel Bose surround-sound audio system and high-intensity discharge headlamps that illuminate the road through curves.