Used 2003 Saab 9-3 Consumer Reviews
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The BEST european sport sedan under 35k
Juanjo, 10/12/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Absolutley the best sport sedan on the market, far superior than AUDI A4 and BMW 3 series; VOLO S60 doesnt even come close to this car really a jewel
Great car at a great price!
fych3173, 08/01/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Saab has really put together a wonderful car! All the gadgets in the car are so cool. Its very functional, fun to drive, beauty to look at, excellent cornering, quick acceleration, comfortable even for a 6'4" person.
2003 Saab 9-3 for sale near you
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- SE ConvertibleMSRP: $4,9951,754 mi away
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So Far So Good
Code7700, 03/08/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was a bit nervous buying a first year model. Especially since I've never owned a Saab before. But this car is unlike the Saabs of yesteryear. It looks great (not quirky), it drives great, and for a few dollars more than a Maxima, the fit and finish 100 times better than any car in its price range. For well under $30,000, you can be driving a car that easily competes (and in many cases beats) $35,000 - $40,000 Audis and BMWs in terms of quality, ride, finish, and customer service.
swedish built??
chuckgolf, 08/17/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
did not meet my expectations... turbo has a lag, not as much power as i thought...built way too low to the ground... sporty look without the sporty performance... winter driving is fair...but look out for that snow.... cracked bumper a few times driving through it..
The Last Saab
Pat, 12/31/2004
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
WE have had nothing but trouble with this car from day one. The biggest complaint is the hesitation which the dealer has not repaired, we are in arbitration. All the problems with this car have not been repaired. My wife has to constantly take it back for repair
So Sad
liz in az, 05/13/2004
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My first luxury car loved it but it was in the shop every couple of weeks for the first four months. Undiagnosed stalling, clutch lost pressure, wouldn't restart. Dealership tinkered and replaced the turbo. After almost a year it still has stalling/restarting problem. A beautiful piece of art but I need a dependable ride. Fun to drive but I can get C-class Mercedes for the same - I'm out of here when lease is up.
DO NOT BUY THIS CAR!!!!!!
César Mauras, 08/19/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It squeaks and rattles. Very unpleasant to drive. The quality of the interior material is very poor. It does feel like driving a Cavalier or a Saturn. I agree with the other reviewer who said that they should change the name to SAAturn. OnStar is nice if you like to be put on hold.
Great Built Cars
Purduegemini, 03/24/2005
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the best car that I have ever owned. I had a problem with some of the pixels going out of my display. I took it to the dealership and they fixed that plus replaced my door handles, seat belts, lug nuts, full maintance, and the list goes on all for free!! Great built cars.
03 9-3, 4th Saab in 20 yrs
rgc2200, 11/27/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best built, handling Saab ever. How was torque steer and turbo lag finally eliminated? Very cool looking in 16"launch/touring + 5 speed manual. Not a rocket, but plenty fast, and will keep you out of trouble. Larger then expected inside, head room galore (i'm 6'4") and with ease of seat fold down/ski pass through, don't miss the hatch back. Unsure why they aren't selling! Waiting for 2nd key, onstar installation and fixing one minor defect (source button on steering wheel upside down). after 3 weeks, I love the car and value, and unique look. I happily pass scores of A-4's and 3 series bmw's each morning!
2 Years and going strong
Dr Mercado, 07/06/2005
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I know what Audi & BMW can be (A4 & 3 series). I decided on this one for its safety features and handling manners. I see some other owners have not had the luck I am going to mention. No fails, no problems. Ride is a pleasure, turbo lag could be something that may bother you if you like make frequent accelerations below 60 mph) hint: I use the tiptronic and get some difference!). My wife is so happy that we are just waiting for the new 9.3 V6 Turbo.. The car is excellent after 2 years, with no strange noises or something to complain. If you buy, chances are that you will keep it fon long & happy.
Excellent Value for European Import
JW Driver, 08/26/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my second Saab and the new 9-3 is a vast improvement over the older 900 and 9-3 hatchback series. This car is fun to drive and inexpensive given the design, power and attractiveness of the vehicle. You'll feel priviledged to own and drive the new 9-3.
Fun and Safe Car
driver-pilot, 01/14/2009
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got a Saab 9-3 Arc used and this car is definitely something different. You have to notice the sloped hood and clean exterior styling, a testament to Saabs new-age design. The interior is pretty roomy, but the paint can scratch off and some parts feel like cheap plastic was used. The CD changer works well as does the radio. This car drives excellently, and using the sport shifter allows you to get some pretty solid acceleration times, with the turbochargers help though! Highway performance is EXCELLENT, and the car handles exceptionally especially when the ESP control is on. We even took it up to the mountains and it handles excellently even with front wheel drive.
Totally New Car
former ford driver, 10/23/2002
updated 01/11/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Unlike any Saab I've ever driven. A true premium entry level luxury sedan. Holds its own and then some compared to the BMW 3's and Audi A4.
FUN CAR
Peteran, 07/31/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been driving it for a week now and let me tell you, that the SAAB commercial about a "direct link between the right foot and a smile" IS TRUE. my wife keeps telling me that every time I accelerate " I never saw you smile so much" followed by "agony and screaming". options: Moonroof and Heated seats, I also had the dealer install a rear spoiler and the sport muffler. It really brought the car out even more, too bad I can't post a picture.
Buy one and enjoy
David, 12/06/2005
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been more than pleased with it's reliability, exceeding my expectations. I have the manual trans. with the 175 hp light pressure turbo. To me, this is the best set up. The engine is smooth and powerful, with no turbo lag, not to mention 28-29 mpg. The interior is roomy with the best seats in the business. The dash has been the only quality let down. Thought I have had nothing go wrong, the centre consol units up the dash seems very flimsy, not tightly secured to the dash. Otherwise, the doors shut with a solidity that is reinforced with the excellent safety ratings (Best in Class!) I recommend SAABs to anyone wise enough to stray from the heard and follow your own road.
2003 9-3 is a great car!
Paul in Boston, 09/03/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am very happy with the 2003 9-3. My first service kicked at 14,400 (most of my driving is highway). Have 15,700 miles after 7 months of ownership. The SID tripped once giving me a faulty gear box reading which I need to have the dealer reset, otherwise it has been 7 months of solid reliability and great driving. I highly recommend it.
Great BMW alternative
Chuck E, 11/30/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has everything we need, good looks, safety, decent power, sporty handling, and a reasonable price. Until recently, you had to sacrifice something if you didn't get a BMW. This new Saab isn't a BMW, but costs less and comes very close. Quick and smooth for a 4 cylinder turbo car.
turbocharge your life
chad clarke, 09/06/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
-YEAHHH, ever since the purchase of my new saab i have had nothing but good times. I can honestly go out and just drive this car for fun. It has enough room for me and four of my friends to go golfing anytime and gas mileage that will blow your mind with all the power that the car has. Also I like the fact that I didn't pay ten thousand dollars to much for this car like a consumer who went out and bought a bmw like a fool.
Unique & Fun to Drive
UKRich, 06/04/2004
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A distinctive car on the streets of Boston: uncommon, elegant & sporty. Fast but not that fast: Good acceleration, but sometimes slow to take off. Very effective overtaking at 80mph. Handling is precise and very enjoyable to drive. 6M gear box is OK but often grates when changing, even with clutch fully down. No fix from Saab. Mileage is great. And you're talking to the guy who got 17mpg out of a PRIUS. Mental driving = 25mpg/35mpg when cruise set to 65mph coming back from VT. Outstanding. Good in snow with new Continental tires. Clean looking interior design but front door panel inserts rattle. Would I buy again? Yes absolutely. No regrets just fun
I love my Saab
Lucy Florses, 12/13/2007
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new, I had 1 problem with it took it to the dealer, they fixed it. The problem is with a rattle but I have never heard from it since. I love the turbo, it makes you think it's a v6. I still get around 32 on highway and 24-29 in town. I never had any electrical problems with it. I have about a 2 hour drive each day and it has suited well. I will always drive saab from now on, this is my second one, the last one was crushed by a drunk driver with my daughter driving, she walked away without a cut.
Guess I've been lucky
kjsouth725, 12/23/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car for 5 years and it's the most comfortable car I've ever driven. And everyone loves how it looks. The biggest negative is the cost of repair. I haven't had many (knock on wood) but those that I've had are expensive. Then again, it's less expensive to than an Audi or BMW. Second big complain is that the wheels are held on my bolts, not lugs. All five need to be at proper torque for the wheel to balance. Also, the wheel hub and bolt are softer metal, so I've already had to re-tap one wheel twice due to electric wrench happy mechanics.
Love it!
Travis Cole, 07/09/2009
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Saab used, I've had a couple issues but I still love the car. It has enough get up and go, and to me is just a thrill to drive! The only real problem I've had with the car is on 2 occasions there was a computer issue, the computer wasn't telling the car to shift gears basically. The first time this happened it fixed itself after I restarted the car a few times. The second time I had to have the computer reset at the dealership ($100) and they put in all the updated software. I get tons of compliments on the car, and I get excited to drive it every time I get behind the wheel!
I wrote off Saab until this I drove this
Saabhappy, 08/01/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I went to the dealer to turn in my '99 on lease and saw the new style. I thought I would just drive it for the heck of it and go off to the BMW and Mercedes dealer to pick up either a 3 series or C-class. I was impressed with the new 93 so much, that after driving the 3 series BMW and C-class Mercedes, I couldn't pass up the Saab. A heck of a lot of value for the money, the handling felt better, the ride more supple and the handling was on par with the others. I have been nothing but pleased with the dealer follow through and it seems as if Saab is finally ready to be a true contender/leader in the entry lux market.
Do Not BUY A SAAB!!!
Saab Consumer, 06/17/2004
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was thrilled when I bought my new Saab 9-3. Less than a month into this car, all hell broke loose! So much for a reliable car, in less than 10 months my car has been in the shop 23 times. Saab Corporate has refused to buy the car back stating that is has to break at least once more to qualify under the Lemon Law. Go to BMW, Audi...anywhere, but to a Saab, trust me, I widh I had!
A lemon?
Saab-ing in NJ, 09/09/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Are computer glitches common with this car? I loved my new Arc -- until day 2 of owning it, when I had to have it towed in because of a computer glitch that made the car barely move when accelerating from a stop. I'll never feel safe again, because I'm afraid of the next computer failure. And safety was a big part of why I chose this car!
No ordinary Euro sedan
scdo, 12/17/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I considered several of the other high- end vehicles, but I was truly convinced that Saab offered much more and was all around the best choice. Now the Jones' will have to try to keep up with me!
Fun to drive, great mpg
heilig, 12/20/2007
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had some problems with this car (HVAC fan broke twice, emission control blower, front lights burned out), but all in all this has been a fun to drive, economical car. I drive between 75 and 80 MPH and regularly get 32 MPG at these speeds. Acceleration when driving 55 to 90 MPH is excellent.
Disappointment
DiAnn, 06/19/2004
2003 Saab 9-3 SE 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm a VW convertible owner,until purchasing the 9-3.What a disappointment.I have definitely discovered that the Germans are better engineers than the Swedes.The ride is rough; the air-conditioning is poor and the interior convenience is non- existent.The interior is cramped; options are inconvenient. The cup holder is horrible unless you like hot coffee spilled on your radio controls.The window controls located in the console are right where they can be bumped several times during any ride, a window suddenly going down as you drive.The pick-up of the turbo 4 cyl. is very good and the braking is superior.Other than that,my purchase has been an expensive mi
Great Car for the Money
nbcmarine, 08/02/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I started out looking for a brand new BMW. Someone suggested I check out the new 9-3, I'm glad I did. Price wise its a great value compared to the Bimmer. Handsome all around, I was impressed by its Scandanavian attributes and performance. Do yourself a favor before you buy any car in that price range and check this one out. The car really is a great value when you consider that a Nissan Maxima or Honda Accord with similar option about the same as the Saab.
First Saab not my last
RJM, 03/09/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just got the 9-3 Vector. Wow, clean lines, more power than needed, handles like its on rails. Innovations galore, some from old Saab some from GM, just a great blend. Tested G-30, A-4, BMW 3 and Baby Caddy.. 9-3 Vector is the very best mix of technology, power, appeal, and price.
A great car - maybe
Curtis, 01/17/2007
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this with just over 50,000 miles on it last year. I always go for extended warranties and was surprised to learn that the dealer could upgrade to GM Certified status even though it had over 50,000 miles. This cost me an extra $2,000, but covers just about everything for 3 years. Turns out I'll probably need it. Been in the shop 8-10 times. Mostly electrical. Burned up center display, check engine light on a lot, replaced headlamp assembly, stability control failure, front bushings replaced, replaced outer door handles, replaced all peeling interior handles and parts, all done under warranty and with a Cadillac CTS loaner (free). Love the car, but after the warranty??
So far so good
FitnessCC, 07/17/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Six weeks into owning the Arc, and I enjoy driving it more and more....The ride and handling are exceptional. Performance is very good, but definite turbo lag takes some getting used to. Had early problem with a couple of stalls in stop and go situations, but either break-in or dealer "reprogramming" seems to have corrected the problem. I think the car looks (and works) as good as the BMW 3-series, for thousands less. Interior is very comfortable for a car this size.
Worst Car Ever
SaabLemon, 01/30/2007
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has been in the shop every three months, nothing but problems - it looks good, but it doesn't work. Absolutely a lemon. It is 3.5 years old with 35k miles on it and it needs another $2000 worth of work - radiator leaking, transmission leaking, front and back brakes/rotors need replacing, 4 new tires, the battery was replaced one week ago. The electrical system was worked on at least 6 times, the window got stuck open, the alarm would go off randomly even when I was in the car with the key etc. etc. Don't buy a Saab - GM ruined the make.
Fun to Drive Again
NJ Dad, 12/22/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Saab 9-3 is sporty and fun to drive, at a price that is affordable, even in comparison with some of the more run-of-the-mill sedans. I must admit I was concerned about getting a 4 cylinder car, but the turbo seems to give the car more acceleration power than my 6 cylinder car had.
Saab 9-3 Auto
Robertsc, 07/19/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
JUst leased a saab 9-3. The computer system is a bit confusing, and the ventilation system is not quite as good as the one on my 98 outback. Overall I enjoy driving it, auto is smooth, sound system is great. Small rattle in passenger side door. overall a pretty good car.
Great car
jcworrel, 04/01/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Saab is still making improvments on a great car. I've always liked Saabs since I owned my first 1987 Saab 900S. I am still impressed with the overall quality of the car and the great handling. To say that GM has ruined Saab is a very misinformed statement. Test drive one and see for yourself. Also, to say that it drives on a Grand Am platform is also inaccurate. More accurately, the Grand Am will be fortunate enough to ride on a Saab platform. Lucky for Pontiac since this car handles superbly and Grand Am's handling leave much to be desired. I would know since that's what I traded in for this Saab.
Flat out outstanding vehicle
NeilN, 07/12/2004
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Not one complaint about this car. It has exceeded my expectations in every way, and my expectations were high.
SAAB 03 9-3
jac, 04/06/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have found the 9-3 to be fun to drive for local around town, but not for drives over 100 miles straight. The seat comfort is very lacking, inspite of seat controls, lumbar control, etc. I have found good driveability in winter conditions (snow, ice and cold) and diving performance has not been affected. I purchased this vehicle based on the re-design plans and merits. I did not test drive, prior to purchase (ordered prior to models coming to country)and I am not sure that I would have purchased if I would have tested it. The On-star is shown on steering wheel , but has not been installed and install is planned for later this year.
saab 9-3 nightmare car
Erik the great, 07/20/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car WILL NOT and DOES NOT work or drive well after 85000 miles.....it's worth more in parts and pieces than it is put together. If saab really makes jet fighters..............they're FALLING OUT OF THE SKY. This is by far the most unrelaible foriegn car available in the us market, notwithstanding Jaguar.
Value to the extreme
ValueSports, 04/08/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
First of all, I paid manufacturer's invoice on a new Linear with driver's package, 16" wheels, heated seats, and sunroof. I highly recommend the infotainment version of the stereo, otherwise the dash looks too bare (and somewhat cheap) with the standard Linear radio. With the rebate at the time, the car was under $25,000 and no one in there right mind can compare anything at that price point to this 9- 3. Not BMW, not Volvo (I've owned both recently), not Audi, and not Mercedes. To put it mildly, this car is the best value available if you know how to negotiate with a dealer. If you are looking for something better, be prepared to spend well over $30k.
Love it!!!
FRG, 01/04/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had the car for 3 months now and still love it. Over the last 4 decades I have owned dozens upon dozens of cars and motorcycles and, so far, this is my favorite car. I believe it will remain my favorite as long as it is as reliable/trouble-free as it is "fun to drive."
Germany take notice!
wubba, 10/27/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I wish the last guy/gal who rated it a 1.0 (and drove down the overall ratings) would admit they are working for BMW. I'll wave bye-bye as I pass you're ass on the autobahn. ...Test-drove the 3, IS300, A4 and C class, if you like <b>DRIVING</B> a car visit you local SAAB dealer.
NO REGRET
gthehun, 08/01/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I can go on an' on what made me buy a Saab, but I don't want to take all day...Bottom line: I LOVE THIS CAR !!! My previous cars were Acuras and Bimmers and I used to have a 900 turbo hatchback in my teenage years and that car was a blast so when I first saw the pictures and specs. of the new Saab 9-3 last summer in Europe I thought:"give it a chance"...and BINGO.
Major Disappointment
Twiggy, 07/14/2004
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
1.5 years into my lease and I can't wait for it to end. It's apparent that now that GM owns 100% has lowered SAAB quality down to GM levels -- quality far far below the 2000 SAAB 9-5 I had before. Squeeks, rattles, the clock won't keep time, and the world's WORST stereo system -- other than AM talk radio I leave it turned off it's so bad. This was the third -- but will be the last - SAAB in this household. I want a quality car, not a GM car. Next stop, Toyota / Lexus or Honda / Acura. Save yourself much grief and avoid this badge-engineered Malibu.
Poor Quality although Sharp Exterior
carrot, 08/21/2004
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car has been in the shop for more than 10 times in less than a year. The engine light is constantly on due to the poor quality of the electronic (e.g., computer)and mechnical design (e.g., brake). It has been the worst car I have ever driven. I will never ever even consider the SAAB brand when I look at any new cars in the future.
Lots for the Money
newsaabdriver, 08/04/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Leased the ARC model after looking at the Acura TSX and others. Saab is a ton of car for the money. Acura was too bland. The Saab blows the Acura and BMW away in driver information and features. Saab's 210 hp and 221 lb/ft torque make the car feel more like 250hp b/c turbo acceleration. Lag is noticable but present only under 2000rpm, above 2K rpm it is strong. Our's is a week old and Onstar registration of the car is the only issue. Buy an Arc rather than a loaded Linear (cheaper that way). Dealer experience was good and I expect more of the same in the future - all service covered is a plus (not so with Acura).
One year mark
scj, 08/25/2004
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Outstanding 1st year. Have owned Audi Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Volvo, Acura in the past. Saab 9-3 represented the best value when we went for a new car in August '03. Car has lived up to expectations. The car has the right amount of torque for daily driving. It is pleasant and smooth with adequate power when pressed. The Linear is a nice balance of riding comfort and handling agility (only my Porsche handled better). The car is one of the safest ever built (refer to crashtest.com for testing done worldwide).
9-3 Linear: Fun and Practical
GolferJim, 03/10/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My first Saab; I'm very pleased so far. The 175hp turbo and automatic are very flexible. Gas mileage (27+ mpg) has been better than I had hoped for with the Auto. Handling is xlnt; not M3 great, but better than the Acura TL we had. Some of the SID functions are awkward, but most controls are good. The 150wt stereo needs help, 6-CD changer is good. I have gotten a number of "thumbs up" from people looking at the car for the first time. It's sharp in silver. The exterior fit and finish are as good as any. The interior materials look good, but not quite A4-good. The heated seats are very comfortable. I also consideded an Audi A4 and Mazda 6s.
Awesome Car!
Saab Bob, 10/02/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Saab really hit a home run with this one!
Lindy's Review
Lindy 9-3, 09/09/2004
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Beautiful car. Very speedy. Does hitch a bit a lower speeds. Interior comforts abound. Dials/switches could be clearer.