Used 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible Consumer Reviews
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Great Drop Top for Weekend Drives
New Jersey Saab Owner, 05/18/2016
updated 05/18/2018
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
49 of 49 people found this review helpful
For a weekend driver the Saab price was a bargain. Why spend 40 grand (what this listed for when new) to get that wind in your hair feeling, when you can get a used Saab that has some class to it? Granted it can get expensive, but I do a lot of my own work, brakes, filters, oil, plugs, belts etc. The car itself is solid, tight steering, easy to work on, hugs the road, very quiet for a cloth top, and the 2.0 turbo has plenty of punch. MPG is terrific. The car is a looker, easy to park, gets plenty of comments and you don't see many of them around. The trunk with the top down can hold enough luggage for a long weekend. This is just right if you want a nice looking car gets plenty of attention, and if taken care of the 2008 has good reliability reviews. Since my original post in February I received two recall notices, one for the airbag and another for the seat belt, both of which were repaired by our local dealer. The Saab sat in the garage all winter and was started up every week. I am using synthetic oil, replaced the spark plugs, new battery, put on new brakes, and enjoying the ride. Now the warmer weather is here, it has been driven several times with no issues and look forward to the weekends. I now have 98,000 miles and it still runs like a champ. I has a MR2 which was a good car, but had no trunk or room for storage. The Saab is easier to get into, small enough to park in tight areas, yet big enough to carry a few bags of groceries. The back seat isn't roomy, but is big enough for guests on short notice on a spur of the moment trips. We are very happy with this vehicle it, was inexpensive as a used rag top, you don't see many on the road, we get lots of compliments, great gas mileage, and enough storage for a weekend jaunt for two retired people. The only drawback is you need the OnStar feature for the Bluetooth to work. Since GM no longer services Saab, the buttons are useless. It doesn't affect the performance of the vehicle and isn't a crucial factor for me. Here it is 2018, and the Saab is still running great. A great car for a weekend jaunt, and love the compliments especially with the top down!
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Why the hell didn't I consider a Saab before?
Al, 03/09/2016
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
28 of 28 people found this review helpful
I was in the market for a new car and was looking through all of the usual suspects; BMW, Mercedes, Infinity, Cadillac...blah, blah, blah! I had a very strict amount that I was willing to spend because of kids in college and having to purchase another vehicle for my wife and another for my daughter who gets her license in less than a year. So, while I was looking I happened to come across a couple of used Saab convertibles. I did some research and I could not find one really negative review. That was cool. I then called a trusted Euro Repair shop in my area. We discussed the Saab turbo 4 cylinder engine, reliability. maintenance fees, convertible top reliability - a basic rundown of his experience of this car. His overall input was that it was very reliable, fun and easy to work on car. He stated that if I took care of it and was REALLY methodical about changing the oil every 2.5K miles, it would last a very long time. So, with that I went to go take a look at the car. It was Silver with Black interior and it was in phenomenal shape. 82K miles. Very good maintenance records and it had been taken care of. Car Fax showed everything was clean. Away we went for the test drive! I immediately noticed that the instrument cluster is laid out very logically and easy to read. I absolutely love the ignition being in the center console. It's different! I fire it up, drop it in drive and head out on the test. Tight steering, front wheel drive 'pull' feels different than rear wheel drive 'push', but it bites and performs really well. Quite, low road noise and surprising performance are things that hit me right away. Seats are very firm but comfortable. I approach the freeway and push the pedal down. Wow! Nice! Great acceleration, handling and we quickly reach 85mph in no time and all of this while not even being in 'Sport' mode. I've driven and owned pretty much every import and I am embarrassed to say that I never looked at a Saab before. The fact that the company is no longer around makes me wonder if they would have been a little more Marketing savvy, if they would still be around. Who knows!!?? What I do know is that I love this car. Convertible top works flawlessly, it looks great, it performs incredibly well. Gas mileage is exceptional given the performance. Bang for the buck, I could not have made a better choice. I'm looking forward to many road trips in this awesome ride! Great fun!
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2008 Saab 9-3 for sale near you
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- Aero ConvertibleMSRP: $5,9501 mi away
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I've never been so loyal to a car before!
Westie, 04/10/2017
updated 02/19/2025
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
16 of 16 people found this review helpful
Update: it’s Feb 20, 2025, and nothing’s changed! I adore this car, and it’s held up wonderfully at 17 y.o. Disclaimer alert- I loved the SAAB convertible concept years and years before I was able to buy one for myself. I had gotten my feet wet by purchasing a 2006 9-3 Sedan 2.OT, just to get into a SAAB (I had owned less expensive convertibles before that time). As smitten as I was by the handling and the look of that 9-3 sedan, I missed having a convertible so much, so I decided to trade it in for a convertible two years later. I purchased a like-new 2008 convertible 9-3 model in 2010, and my goal was to keep it looking as new as when I purchased it. Well, it's 2017 now, and it really looks the same as it did that first test drive. All biases aside, here's my take- it's a fantastic deal for the money, especially now. This is a car that was designed with safety in mind, and has pop up roll bars, safety alerts, and a number of airbags. It's also a tremendously fun car to drive. The four cylinder 2.0 turbo has plenty of power, and the turbo lag is fairly minimal, though I love the sound on a quick acceleration. The car is responsive, quick, and rides fairly quietly for a convertible. It's also pretty well insulated in the winter, and gets excellent traction with the right tires. I have the cold weather package, which is a must in the colder climates. As I sit here, I can't think of any unplanned repairs, either. It's been remarkably reliable (knock on wood). My only complaint is that I need to apply my high beams in more remote areas at night because the headlights aren't that bright (I had low beams installed, and that helps). But, other than that, this car feels like it was built for the long haul, and I plan on keeping it for a very, very long time. April 2019:I still have this car, and my feelings haven’t changed. This car still looks and feels like new at 78k miles (it’s now the fun “extra car”). GM skimped on some of the interior technology then, so it seems a bit dated now. It’s not a deal breaker, though. It’s a great car. February 2021: I still have the car. I took it in today for an oil change, and it’s still fun to drive on a winter day. We had to finally replace the vacuum pump, but it otherwise got a remarkable overall bill of good health. My car is mostly garaged now, and has 79K miles on it. I’m delighted at the lack of surprises in our 10+ years together, and the fun we still have. That turbo sound never gets old! The interior tech is a bit dated now, but I don’t have the passion for my 2020 Cadillac XT5 that I have for my now 13 yo Saab...not even close ;). February 2023: The world may be changing, but my loyalty to my Saab has not. This is a great car! August 2024: Still together! The car still looks great and is so much fun to drive. I had to repair the air conditioner and replace the exhaust system this year, but other than that, the car is really holding up. I have about 82k on the clock.
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Me and my Aero
beefa, 11/10/2011
2008 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.8L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
15 of 15 people found this review helpful
Absolutely love this car. Had mine for two years now as a daily driver. I put 100 miles a day on the car and my drive is the best part of my day. Great performance out of the 2.8T 6 cyl, matched with the manual 6 speed. The car accelerates effortlessly. No slowing down in the corners, the car holds the road while the seats keep me steady and comfortable. This truly is a FUN car to drive. Gas mileage is better than expected.
My First Saab
DoninVirginia, 11/21/2010
2008 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.8L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
After researching manufacturers such as Audi and BMW, I chose the Saab Aero Convertible. My criteria included 1) fun to drive, 2) performance, 3) curb appeal, 4) amenities, and 5) price. The 2008 Aero Convertible had it all. The 6-speed manual is fun to drive, and performs like a champ. It has a great look, small on the outside, but comfortable on the inside. I love the Xenon lights and the Bose Stereo. 2008 was the right price point. And this vehicle, steel gray with black top, had been meticulously maintained, with only minor wear noted. The key fob is also really cool. Although the interior materials may not be up to others, it is not worthy of the criticims.
Solid fun convertible
3rdSaabCvt, 10/19/2008
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
This is my 3rd Saab convertible and it's great. Nice balance of performance and economy. Ride and handling are way, way better than my previous ones. GM Ecotech engine could be more powerful but is extremely smooth and balanced. Interior is a downgrade from previous cars. Guages look cheap and SID information display was better when at eye level instead of buried in speedometer, but seats are super comfortable seats. Fuel economy is much better than EPA estimates. I'm getting 23 in town with AC on and 29 in my daily commute which is 80% highway, again with AC on. Fog lights should be standard and hidden exhaust pipe is cheap, should have polished tips. Great soft top - high quality.
Driving is fun again
double d, 07/23/2009
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
My wife and I recently bought a still new 08 convertible for our fun car (at a very good price). The cars we drive for work are good but boring. Not so with the Saab. I'm having a blast driving it. I haven't had this much fun driving in many, many years. Always looking for an excuse to drive anywhere, especially with the top down. The car is nimble and has a nice throaty exhaust - so different from the Asian cars I've owned. Exterior styling is not as thrilling as other cars in its class but that's OK because its unique styling has a timelessness about it that should make it a pleasure to own for many years.
Nice Car at a discount
Michael, 03/21/2009
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I just bought my Saab a week ago and in my short time I am very happy with the car. It is a bit noisy with the top up in traffic but the stereo does a good job of helping to overcome that. The engine is energetic and delivers good around-town acceleration, the transmission is slow to downshift in the standard driving mode. Visibility is ok, but the soft top does create some blind spots when up. My fuel mileage was ok for first two tanks - avg 21.5mpg with mostly city driving. I like this car, but couldn't see spending $44k for it as on the original sticker. If you get a good deal, enjoy - if not, I think the other Swede might be a bit classier for the same loot.
Tough love
jay molluso, 04/03/2016
updated 10/12/2021
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Love my Saab and now the car had a total electrical meltdown for a half an hour. Then it started again. The shop ran their scAn and checked it out and cannot find a problem! This happened a week ago. Will I love it or lease it???? Update. Meltdown occurred several years ago. No problem since then . update never had the electrical problem again. The car is now 10 years old and ,with 41,000 miles runs beautifully. Just had it detailed and had to replace the top about 6 months ago($2000 ouch). still love my SAAB
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Saab
Marlene, 01/21/2016
2008 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.8L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
4 of 8 people found this review helpful
This is my second Saab convertible, probably the best car I have ever owned!
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Nice car for the money
tony w., 06/04/2008
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a really nice car and we get lot's of compliments everywhere we go. Fuel mileage is good and the rear seat is bearable for children on intermediate length trips. Speaking f trips, there is actually room for luggage in the trunk with the top down, go figure. Good job saab
Wow a 150 mph car on a budget.
Flud, 03/20/2017
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Find a good place for service. Drive it enough to keep the battery charged and keep the wheels balanced and you can scoot with the top down and have a lot of fun. It's a beautiful car the quality of the car is really good, I keep it shiny and clean. I love my little Saab.
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Uncomfortable Seats!
NOVA SAAB 9.3 Owner, 05/13/2009
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
1 of 7 people found this review helpful
Maybe I just got a lemon. The seats on this otherwise wonderfully fine convertible are HORRIBLE. I really don't know what to do and I grimace every time I'm about to get into the car. Just for this reason, I recommend nobody consider this car.
hot to trot !!
kellee, 06/21/2008
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is an absolute dream!! People comment on the beautiful lines, especially with the top down. Peppy, fabulous European design, interior is very functional and roomy. Drove the BMW M3, Audi A-4 convert., Volvo and more. This is the best, for the money, that I drove. Sporty, peppy and a real cutie. The A/C takes NO time to cool down and that is key in Texas!!
Saab-The Bedington Terrier of Cars
Spencer Aronfeld, 07/20/2008
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had a Saab 25 years ago and still dream about it. I test drove every car on the market and nothing provided the drive, look, quality and fun of the 9-3 for the price. BMW too expensive. Lexus, too boring. MB too common. This is a unique car. I leased it with an automatic (my only regret so far) in Fusion Blue. Dealer worked hard to make the deal. On Star is a great feature and already worked to unlock my car when I left the keys in side. If you want a unique car with lots of personality, I recommend it. Make sure dealer puts air in tires and balances wheels before you drive off lot if, like mine, it had sat there for months. Saab is a European car owned by GM. Love it!
2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible, wow!
Russ, Largo, Fl, 07/26/2008
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Move over Mercedes CLK 320 convertible. I've owned one and the Saab is 12k less with far more features, standard features and the most awesome driving experience you will ever have hands down. This vehicle is the very best mixture of luxury and sport I've ever encountered. Its handling is crisp, yet comfortable and eager to please. It's as if the driver is one with the car. Very simply, you put gas in it and the car takes care of itself. It monitors all essential functions, has XM radio, OnStar, remote top down, additional lighting, superior guages, 3 comfort zones and so much more. Leases included all maintenance and bumper to bumper warranty. This is positively one sweet machine.
Awesome Car!
JoeyDropTop, 10/04/2008
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am so happy with my purchase! I have been interested in this 93 for some time now! I shopped for a while, compared, and I am glad to say that my New Saab is amazing! Fun to drive, and FAST for a 4 cylinder! LOVE the turbo! Love the remote top down! And gotta love the ICE BLUE color!
Happy camper
JB, 03/11/2009
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded a 3 year old Eclipse Spyder convertible for an 'executive used' (3400 miles) 2008 9-3 2.0T - bright yellow convertible ! My Eclipse was my second and a great car - but the Saab (my first) surprises me every day. Automatic windshield washing - and running lights - (the lights turn into a right or left turn) - the seats are form fitting and very comfortable - the car holds corners at full acceleration like a dream. I'm getting about 25% better mileage than my Eclipse - 26 - 27 mpg in all kinds of driving. And it's Superbowl winning - Pittsburgh Steelers colors - what's not to like ! This is a great car, and the way I bought it - it's a great price (almost 60% of retail!)
Truly Surprised
Max Andrews, 04/11/2009
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We weren't even going to stop at Saab - I'm so glad we did. Twenty years of luxury cars and convertibles, and I haven't had this much fun driving since my first Miata. Traded from a Mustang GT Convertible, and ride is 1000% smoother. Wish I'd bought one years ago.
Love my Saab
skm95t, 05/19/2009
2008 Saab 9-3 2.0T 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this a week and our family loves our Saab. My 4 yr old always ask "Can we ride in the red car with the top down". The car gets pretty good gas mileage, it's quick and agile around town and on the highway. The 2.0T is more than enough power. The back seat is big enough to put our car seat in backwards, and our 4 yr old has plenty of room for many years. Adults can easily sit back there. The power roof works great. The stereo, A/C, and all the other instruments are easy to use.
2008 Saab
Barry Brooks, 03/24/2025
2008 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.8L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Would give it 10 stars if I could. Properly maintained this car, based on owner reviews, should provide 100,000 plus miles. Loved every minute with it but am running out of garage space. Too bad Saab stop producing all models.
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