Saab 9-3

Name: 2004 Saab 9-3
Brand: Saab

RECALL ALERT: There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 6 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

First Take

The redesigned 9-3 is a huge improvement over its predecessor, but it doesn't match up to the class best. Handling is sporty, capable, and enjoyable. Braking performance was exceptionally good. A stiff ride transmits each road flaw to the passengers, expecially in the Vector (now called Aero) model we tested with 17-inch performance tires. A lot of road rumble further detracted from comfort. The 210-hp, turbocharged engine delivers relatively quick performance, but lacks the low-end punch of competitive V6s. The front seats are well sculpted, but head room may be tight for taller drivers. Rear seat room is tight.

Reliability Details

Owner Satisfaction Details

See All Ratings & Specs

2004 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

No Data Available

Crash and Rollover Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

See All Ratings & Specs

Crash and Rollover Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

See All Ratings & Specs

Owner Reports

Worse Better

Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

Crash and Rollover Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

See All Ratings & Specs

2004 Luxury compact cars Ratings

2004 Saab 9-3

$3,175 - $4,800

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Acura TSX

$5,125 - $5,175

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Audi A4

$3,200 - $5,000

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 BMW 3 Series

$4,050 - $5,400

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Buick Regal

$3,925 - $4,100

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Infiniti G

$4,625 - $5,125

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Lexus IS

$ NA

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

$3,450 - $5,925

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2004 Volvo S60

$3,550 - $4,700

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

See All Luxury compact cars Ratings

Seating

2 front, 3 rear

Drive Wheels

Front

Warranty

Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties

convertible

sedan

5-speed Manual
5-speed Automatic
6-speed Manual

2-liter 4 turbo (210 hp)
2-liter 4 turbo (175 hp)

Model History

2007-

Current Generation

For 2007, the car was freshened with revised styling, better interior controls, an available AWD model and a turbocharged six-cylinder engine. While boasting impressive crash test scores and secure handling, the upscale European sport sedan category in which it competed was bristling with more capable offerings. The ride is stiff, the cabin is noisy and cramped, and fit and finish aren't as good as buyers expect in this segment.

2003-2006

2003 Redesign Year

The original 9-3 had secure handling, a large and versatile hatchback, and a full complement of safety features. However, it rode stiffly, was noisy, and had a cramped interior. For 2003, the hatchback was discontinued, leaving a four-door sedan, convertible, or wagon with a choice of turbo four-cylinder engines. Good points were sporty and capable handling, along with good braking. The front seats are well-sculpted, but the rear seat is tight. Some controls are overly complex and the 9-3 isn't as comfortable as some competitors.

1999-2002

1999 Redesign Year

The Saab 900 was renamed the 9-3 for 1999. The turbo Four and automatic transmission made for a lethargic takeoff. The V6 was dropped, and a high-performance, 230-hp Viggen model was added. A stiff ride, narrow cockpit, and cramped rear seat remained.