2001 Saab 9-3 Review
Fuel Economy
22 mpg
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
An offbeat alternative to the staid German sedans that dominate the category.
Pros
Comfy interior, versatile hatchback model, torquey turbo motor, quirky personality.
Cons
Controls not always intuitive, offbeat image, severe torque steer in SE and Viggen models.
What's New for 2001
The base convertible has been dropped for this year while all other models get two new colors. The OnStar telematics system and traction control are now standard.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
2nd Saab Convertible
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Saab 9-3 SE 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Review
Own 1 bought this for my daughter. Comfortable, safe, style and expect the same high reliability I have experienced in the 5 years I have owned mine. Disregard the comments about GM build quality, all built in the same factory forever. Not a Sedan so don't expect the same trunk space or the feel. Understand a convertible before you buy one and if you buy a used car understand that repairs will be necessary. I really like the car which is clear since I now own 2. BTW my other car is a new MB, so my standards are high.
Favorite Features
The seats are about as comfortable as any car, bar none. The ride is solid as is the car. Again it is a convertible so some "minor" bumpy on rough roads. Since I ride on well maintained roads most of the time I have no issues. Great looks, fun with the top down, very good in the snow. A buy used.
Suggested Improvements
The newer cars have evolved so the trivial issues have been taken car of in the newer year models.
Stalwart
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Saab 9-3 SE 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Review
After 8 largely trouble-free years I felt it's time to give this car its due on Edmunds. Its best features are the fun factor - great responsive motor and handling, classic styling (the newer cars have become too homogeneous), and reliability which is surprising for Saab. There have been a couple costly part replacements, but over time that's to be expected. It's certainly been more reliable than our '05 Toyota Sequoia. After 8 yrs my eyes have begun to wander to possible replacements (e.g., M3), but the Saab keeps running strong, and if I "traded up" I suspect I'd miss the Saab more than I'd like the newer car.
Favorite Features
Strong turbo engine, once I get to second gear, manual transmission, great sense of control on the road. Like how the red car stands out in the parking lot. Great interior space with hatchback. Thick comfortable steering wheel. Great mileage.
Suggested Improvements
More lateral leg room for driver and passenger (manual trans. takes up space); original radio display lost pixels after 6 yrs.
Mixed Feelings - Saab Enthusiast
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 7 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 5 |
| Comfort: | 6 | Interior Design: | 2 | Reliability: | 5 |
| Fuel Economy: | 4 | Exterior Design: | 7 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Saab 9-3 SE 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Review
While I am a SAAB enthusiast, I have been less than enthusiastic with this car. When purchased, the vehicle was in good condition and looked over in Denver. However, within months I was repairing. Some cosmetic - totally my prerogative, and others necessary. Here's the necessaries: 1. Fog lamps cracked on the highway - design flaw of glass with no protection. These are $200/ea 2. Water Pump + hosing 3. Serpentine belts 4. Multiple headlamp halogens & multiple brake pad sets (I drive 5600/yr) 5. Engine Mts., Trans. Mounts 6. Front Wheel Bearings (under 70K) 7. Window motors + mechanism 8. Hydraulics for the top 9. SID re-manufactured 10. Mass Airflow meter It feels like a $$ pit.
Favorite Features
TOP! TOP! TOP! Sound System is supreme. Turbo option is a real performer. Memory seats a plus. Tonneau cover (it neatly hides the top) gives the car a finished look.
Suggested Improvements
Steering - many aftermarket parts to strengthen this though. Fuel Efficiency needs some major work (even in the 2009). Interior was cheaply designed in 2001 (thanx GM). GENERAL RELIABILITY NEEDS SOME MAJOR WORK. I had a 99' Prelude prior to this I bought new and put 150000mi and it was more reliable
9-3 Viggen - Wolf in Sheep's Clothing
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Saab 9-3 Viggen 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Review
This is my second Saab. My '99 9-5 was comfortable luxury at a great (used) price. The Viggen has all the comfort and luxury and outstanding performance too. The turbo kick at almost any speed is exhilirating. Torque steer is an issue, but there are aftermarket cures for that. Exterior look of the car is very "euro" and hatchback yields excellent cargo capability. Interior is comfortable, lack of cupholders just emphasizes that you should be driving the car when you are in it, not drinking (or talking on the phone). No automatic available anyway, so keep your hands free for driving! Viggen's have a loyal following too, so expect used prices to be pretty stable.
Favorite Features
Stealth power. Rarity. Everyday usability. Manual transmission. Heated seats. Seat memory. Steering wheel audio controls. Overall luxury. Reasonable used prices.
Suggested Improvements
More power? Aftermarket kits are available. Better handling? Again, check the aftermarket. It is a powerful FWD car, torque steer and understeer are part of the package!
Best car I have owned
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 10 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
Review
I have 96K miles on my 9-3 and have not had any problems. The car has been completely trouble free. The engine has plenty of power along with excellent gas mileage. A shame Saab did away with the hatchback. The newer models look more like every other cookie cutter car. Love this car so much we sold our Volvo and purchased another 2001 9-3
Favorite Features
Unique styling makes it stand apart from the usual cookie cutter cars everyone else drives. Hatchback provides tons of room. Neat features like the push button winter mode which is helpful during snowy conditions. I like the key ignition on the floor.
Suggested Improvements
Cup holder is awful! They must not drink coffee in Sweden.
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