Used 2003 Saab 9-3 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Overwhelming experience!!
LUV4SAAB, 01/22/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my new 9-3 Sport Sedan about a month ago, and let me tell you, I wish this car were out 3 years ago!! The styling of this new Saab is outstanding. This is the first Saab I've owned, and heads are turning as I drive. The power in the Linear model is great. I love the ability to switch from auto to manual for a little more excitement in driving. The sales staff I worked with was phenomenal as well. I've never had such a positive and honest car buying experience.
Fun to Drive
Julian93, 01/25/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best handling car I've ever driven. Beats its German competitors hands down,
2003 Saab 9-3 for sale near you
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Replacement for the Bimmer
pskim72, 01/29/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
One of the best sport sedan I've driven. The design is fresh and appealing. Performs heads on with the BMW 3 series.
More of the same
Bueller, 07/16/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Similar to other reviews, I've had numerous electrical and mechanical issues since purchasing the car 4 years ago. The HVAC blower has been looked at and 'fixed' 5 times now. Window motor replaced. Fading door handles replaced. Interior finishes now chipping off. Hood Saab emblem is cracked and deteriorating. Excess brake dust.
SAAB 2003 LINEAR
JAT8, 01/31/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car is well designed,looks good,is fun to drive and a great value.
Fast
xian, 02/04/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is great. I leased this car with the all the options they were offering, sans the 17 inch wheels (I have the 16's). This is really sharp. The manual didn't quite match up with the CD changer, and the OnStar was not ready when I picked up my 9-3 (the dealer told me the software was not ready). So far, for my first Saab, it's been great.
Love / Hate Relationship
Vectra, 07/28/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is such a great car, it is a shame that I have a Lemon. I was not worried about buying the Vector as soon as it was made available b/c of SAAB's committment to quality, however have ended up driving the loaner car more than my fun Vector. There is something draining the battery when the car is off and they have replaced everything: CD Changer, 300W Amp, Window Controls, Battery, you name it. Unfortunetely due to the fine print on the contract since I used GMS discount I have no protection under the Lemon Law. I hope they get it fixed b/c it is a great car.
Worst Car Ever Owned
cdukes1984, 11/10/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great looking car with excellent performance but you can't go a week without finding something else wrong with it. Bought it with 41000 miles on it and had to replace the transmission and radiator. The wiper motor, front wheel bearings and window motors are all going to need to be replaced soon too. Definitely will never buy a Saab again.
awesome
odininfl, 09/21/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The new 9-3 is awesome. I compared it to the BMW 3 series and it performs better. The price you can't beat. If you are looking for something no one else has that handles great, this is the car.
The fresh new kid on the block...
fedomg, 02/09/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Many years have passed. Now, value for the buck has a new dimension with this entry luxury car, the best in this category I´ve driven. ¿5 extra grand for a similar equiped 330I? NO WAY. One thing is clear, once again BMW will have to rise the bar, if they want to keep market share. Bravo for Saab !
Value
HKC_93, 01/04/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car fun and jazzy. Its distinctiveness is one of the main draw for me, of course, value counts too, it has all the luxry you want plus more... Get one with sports package, you won't be out of style for a long time.
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.
We both love this car
bmccoy, 01/14/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Those who have rated the car poorly in this forum must really like the old hatchback style, but that's why I never owned one before. This car is beautiful both inside and out. Some said its cheap and GM ruined it, but if you read the automative journals, this is the best car Saab ever produced. The linear model is fast enough for me. It accerlates quickly and gets up to speed in seconds. Handling is this cars best attribute. It simply carves up twisty back roads. The interior is laid out very well. There are a ton of features and the profiler system is great. Put simply, this car is terrific. I have never gotten up early on a weekend just to go for a drive!!
Great car
jh, 02/09/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best Fun Car I have ever owned/Great!
different is good!
VINCENT, 10/29/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The new 9-3 is the real deal, I test drove a Linear model and was pleased with the car. It's fun to drive and I just can't say enough about the interior! I love the look and feel of the interior. The only drawback from the Linear is its 175hp. it needs atleast 10-15hp more. It does not feel as fast as a 325i from BMW.
New 9-3 Just What Saab Needs
jimdl, 02/11/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The new Saab 9-3 Linear is just what Saab has needed for many years. This car epitomizes fun to drive -- truly a pleasure in wet, snow, and on dry pavement. The 9-3 is sure footed and give the driver all of the information needed. Smooth acceleration and all the power you need for around town or on the road. Great storage and styling and phenomenal safeth features. The radio controls are a little daunting at first, but once you get used to them, they're really quite logical. A definite winner!
This is a cool car!!
Saabdriver, 01/28/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I wasn't going to purchase this car; what I really wanted was a Volvo S40. But after I test-drove it, I fell in love. The 9-3 is as sophisticated as the S40 but with more features. It has a sporty engine like the A4 but without the high torque. It is one of the best cars in its class. It's comfortable, has tons of amenities and great performance. In addition to all of that, my dealership in Akron, Ohio (Towell Saab) gave me one of the best deals going on this car. I can't believe what I'm paying (or not paying). If you are in Ohio, go there to get your Saab!
Welcome to the premium-class SAAB!
William C. Eastwood, 08/24/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A good friend of mine works at SAABs NY office and got to test the new 9-3, as a good friend of his I got to drive it to. What can I say, a wonderful car. I'm considering getting rid of my BMW 330Ci and getting a new 9-3 Aero when it hits the market, I suggest you do the same!
My Saab has been a great purchase
Harmiclir, 03/31/2009
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had a few minor problems in the first year but since then, nothing. Granted, it's a fairly low-mileage car but it rides well and has been reliable. I still get compliments on the way it looks. I have no idea how the problems with GM cutting Saab free will play out or affect future value but so I'm glad I bought the car and have never understood the concerns raised by many old-time Saab-snobs.
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!
Not a Grand AM!!!! This is a nice car!
WillieG35sedan, 02/03/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I want to get a crying towl out for Zeke, Bernie S and Saab driver. I applaud GM for the exterior styling (if they are responsible). How can these guys rate the care so low without owning one? We just traded a 2000 BMW 328 to lower our payment. This car is not a BMW, but it is light years ahead of a Grand AM!.
Great new platform
nomorebmw, 09/19/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The new 9-3 is a great car. Far superior to the rest of the European competition.
Marvellous Saab
Murf, 02/05/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Saab has delivered a serious competitor to BMW's and Audi's at an EXTREMELY competitive price - the 93 sports sedan is fast, safe, and packed with standard features that would cost $000's in similar European cars. Handling, agility and stylish looks are major pull factors. I test drove every car in its class and then some and for the money, there is no question that this is the leader of the pack.
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.
awesome
Robert Pelton, 10/07/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
new styling and very fast. I love the way this car performs.
100% Mistake
Displeased, 05/11/2009
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car seems to have spent as much time being fixed as being driven. It is now in the shop for oil leaking from a vacuum pump and a broken bolt that was supposed to hold the sway bar in place. Just replaced the blower motor for the heater two days earlier. In the time we've owned it, we must have gone to the dealership at least 20 times. All I can say is if you ever buy a Saab voluntarily, you have just made the worst mistake in your car buying life.
New Saab 9-3
Gerardo, 02/10/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
If you are like me wondering wich car to get ( a Passat, a Volvo S40 or a Audi A4) do not get confussed this is the car.It has an agile response with a steel ,but sensitive feel of total control.The CBC, ESP,ReAxs & ABS work together as a symphony.Beware: this car is highly addictive.Almost a bet of you try it,you buy it.... Only minor:Get the 150 infotainment system (at minimum,you won´t regret,the 75 is not good as the car) if you get the 16¨ alloy wheels expect to get a 35 psi front and 32 psi rear wheels at least( making it little bumping),but who cares if you are having a car like this!!!
Quick Review
Mavv23, 10/30/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Simply put--this is by far the best GM sedan on the market. Moreover, when I matched it against the stiff entry- level luxury class, it was by far the best value for the luxury offered. But,I did have the GM discount--a whopping 3400.
buying 9-3 linear in one month
tobethebest, 02/14/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just got home from test driving the 2003 Saab 9-3 linear. I was very impressed with the drive and comfort. I was receiving plenty of looks from good looking girls on and around my University campus. This car made me feel good when driving. I felt more confidence within myself. It's amazing how driving a car can make you feel, and the Saab 9-3 made me feel great. I am currently an Audi owner. For the price the Saab is a much better deal. Looking forward to hearing other's comments!
What a Shame!
citizen1130, 02/23/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I own a 2003 Saab 93 Arc and I must admit, the drive and performance are awesome. That being said, I wouldn't get another one even if they paid me to do it. I bought this car with at little less than 31000 miles and it's been HELL ever since. Among the problems, to name just a few; power steering failure (while I was driving!), blower motor failure, wiper motor failure, hand brake stuck in the upright position and SIM module failure (which cost about $1000 to replace). I've owned many cars in my life from beat-up Chevys to Bimmers and I've never, ever had so many critical safety issues with any of them. Especially at so low mileage. It's the most UNRELIABLE vehicle on the road.
Sporty Fun
TL09, 02/19/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great vehicle. Very fun to drive. Handles extremely well.
HUGE Mistake
brian, 05/09/2009
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded my infinity g20 (loved that car) to saab of tampa (only because the miles were getting high). I picked a 2003 9-3 linear with 38,000 miles on it. The price seemed too good to be true. The car looked great... And that's about it!!! To many problems to list, about 2,200 dollars and a year later traded it in for a 2009 xterra. DONE WITH SAAB!!!!!!
Best Car on the Road
heystupid, 11/03/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nothing comes close. Anyone who complains about this car has neither driven it nor seen it.
premium-class SAAB!!!
CBK, 02/19/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best handling car I've ever driven, beats its German competitors. A true premium entry level luxury sedan.
Parts on indefinite backorder!!!
Jules, 05/12/2009
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had a lot of Saab's and no car has given me as many problems as this one. It was in the shop over 7 times in 1 month alone. Recently the alternator went and then the vacuum pipe and now a $34.00 hose that is on back order Saab Corp. says indefinitely. Thanks to GM the quality of this car and the company has gone down the drain. WATCH OUT!!!
THIS CAR IS GREAT!
dreamcar, 02/21/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The new Saab 9-3 is a great car. Its handles wonderfly and I dont have to worry about safety either. It has saftey features out the wazoo, along with all of the performance feature, which really make it a fun car to drive.
Disappointed First Time Saab Owner
maddux111, 06/10/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive and looks good. Poor product quality. Turbo had to be replaced and the car repainted due to peeling paint. Car had less than 1500 miles on it when both occured. Customer Service Center very poor. Poor radio sound and cup holders have a tendency to spill cups. Service at the Dealership great. This car has not represented the quality that Saab markets itself as having. Great Dealership, poor product quality and poor customer service. Not worth the money. Buy a BMW!
Bad Decision
Mike29, 11/25/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After I purchased my 9-3 I have had nothing but problems with it. I have had to replace the tires twice in 2 years. I only drive it 7500-8000 mi a year. I have had a check engine light come on several times which three Saab dealers can't come to a conclusion on. I have had my power steering shut off while driving with my young sons in the back seat. Other than the MPG and turbo this car is not a good decision to purchase. I WILL NOT be looking at purchasing another Saab anytime soon!
Great Car
patrick008, 11/07/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just picked the car up a few weeks ago. Great vehicle. Looks like it's Bye Bye BMW
SAAB convert
DJN, 06/12/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The combination of great styling, handling, performance, and (relative) affordability of the new 9-3 Vector made me a Saab convert! Just as good as its German competitors, with better looks. The Vector is very fun to drive, no sign of torque steer or turbo lag. It handles great and has decent power. The interior is very comfortable and well laid-out.
just average
TONTO, 07/02/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the 9-3 is OK but I expected better handling and more responsive pickup. i just hope it doesnt wind up in the shop too many times.
AERODYNAMICS EXTREME
Honest, 10/02/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just can not get out of my car! It is wonderful! My friends who have BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus cars all respect my ride and wants to exchange cars for a day to see what all the hype is all about. Not a chance! They better go get their won. I like a competing growing car with an interesting history. SAAB never dies, literally!
Not overly impressed
MikeC, 07/09/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I must admit, part of this is my own fault. I test drove a Vector model since it was the only manual transmission model the dealer had. I then bought an Arc to save some $$$. Well the difference in handling is very noticable. My Arc is too softly sprung to offer top-notch handling. Plus the seats are much less supportive than in the Vector. A major improvement over previous Saabs but still no BMW or Audi.
Too much GM -- really a SAAturn 9-3
Wiggy, 07/11/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The SAAB 9-5 is a great car, while the more I live with the 9-3 the more disenchanted I become. The stereo is horrible, it sounds like it is from a Cavalier rental car, and for this reason alone I would NOT recommend this car!!!! This cheapness / poor quality is found throughout the interior, which has the cheap look and feel typical of GM products. Instead of feeling like I'm driving a quality Euro car (as I did with the 9-5) I feel like the 9-3 is a glorified Saturn, or should I say SAAturn!
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.
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.
Still Get Compliments on the Car
Harry 19, 07/01/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I did have some fairly minor mechanical problems the first year, all of which were covered under warranty--nothing since. The car still turns heads after all this time--people assume I paid a lot more for it than I did. The ride is a little stiff and the model has improved since 2003. I still enjoy it and never had some of the mechanical problems that other '03 owners seem to have encountered. I enjoy driving the car and will probably buy a 9-3 again but hope to be able to keep this one going another few years at least--I don't use it much more than 7,500 miles a year and if I can avoid any major problems expect to hold it until it dies.
My last SAAB
jmklwck, 01/13/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased new - experience has been less than stellar with immediate recalls of front wheel axles. As the weather got colder the first winter (2 months after the purchase) the car would not immediately start. After repeated trips to the dealership the problem was resolved with an adjustement to the engine software. Multiple recalls on the vehicle - seat belts, gas cap, etc. I have had a constant check engine light issue which I was told was a secondary vacuum pump for the turbo ($600+) that I have chosen not to repair since it service tech stated it only affected mileage which I have seen no change.
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 Swedish Sport
dtmarz, 07/23/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Black ARC is definitely the best Car I've ever owned. My smile starts every time I click the key fob to unlock the door, and the light flash a quick Hello. Everything you read about the great safety features, can be matched with the performance and attention to user details (for the driver and all the passengers). Saab shows it's serious about building a great car, not marketing hype.