While some reviewers have complained that the new 9-3 still suffers from torque steer, they are incorrect. Even with the traction control system switched off, the 2008 model restricts this undesirable characteristic better than any other Saab or any other front-wheel drive car of similar engine output; it's an exceptional achievement.

Active and Passive Safety Systems Galore
Apart from respective engine performance and ride quality of the two versions, the other key difference between the base and Aero sedans appeared in the braking department.


The base sedan offers 285-mm front ventilated discs and 278-mm solid rear discs, while the Aero receives upgrades on all four corners: 314-mm front discs and 292-mm rear discs. Stepping from the Aero to the base sedan, the braking force was noticeably less; the base model seemed not up to the challenge of truly sporty driving.

The systems on all versions include an automatic brake boost feature under heavy braking, as well as ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution and another system that aids braking performance when cornering.

On the passive safety front, the Saab 9-3 continues an established tradition of superior standards. The new model again offers a passenger compartment constructed of high-strength steel, six standard airbags and active head restraints, while a tire pressure monitoring system is now standard.

The results? The new sedan is the first car with standard safety equipment to receive a "double best pick" rating and the new 9-3 convertible is the only soft-top to receive a top-pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Final Analysis
On the styling front, the new 9-3 features a more aggressive front fascia (particularly on the Aero versions) and a return to the classic Saab clam-shaped hood. The sedan cuts a unique and stylish profile on the road, but the SportCombi wagon continues to veer too far in the direction of sheer quirkiness to resonate with a mass audience.

The base price for the 2008 Saab 9-3 sedan is $35,950, while the Aero sedan rings in at $43,990. For the base and Aero versions of the SportCombi, add $1,600 to each tally. Pricing for the 9-3 convertible has yet to be confirmed.

While the new Saab 9-3 represents a significant step forward for the brand and the company, that pricing may not be attractive enough to divert people's attention away from the more established players.

If the company could be convinced to drop the price of each model by a few thousand dollars, popularity of the 9-3 would likely skyrocket. But maybe Saab prefers customers who prefer the road less traveled...


Decent engine performance
Impressive ride and handling
Slick new front-end styling
Fully transferable warranty
Superior safety standards

Base versions not as stylish or nimble as Aero models
No paddle shifters for the automatic
Lightweight braking on the base model



SportCombi styling is awkward
Pricing may not be competitive enough


Photo Credit : Mark Hacking