Search Car Reviews:





Driver Power 2007
 

67Saab 9-382.77%

Saab 9-3

A relatively high 18 per cent of 9-3 owners say their cars havenÂ’'t lived up to expectations – – a sobering statistic for Saab bosses. So where does it all go wrong for the 9-3? Build quality and reliability –– often regarded as the cornerstone of Swedish design and engineering –– are the big problems. A position of 74th in the former sector and 82nd in the latter are poor results for a rival to the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4. Indeed, the only highlight in the scoresheet is 13th overall in the comfort chart.

Your Quotes

“While it can be pretty good in some parts and even excellent in a few areas, overall my Saab 9-3 doesn't quite make the grade.”

Mr Michael Whitelegge - Bedfordshire

“Disappointed, it is apparently based on the old Vauxhall Vectra, and boy does it feel like it!”

Mr Andy Harman - Powys

“Good enough tool for the job.”

Mr Peter Ashley - Surbiton

“Convertible turbo absolute joy in the summer.”

Ian Hart - Leeds

“Previously had a Vectra and it was much better specified and better fuel economy. I really thought the Saab would be a step up. Wrong.”

Mr Ian Lowe - Lancs

“It's a very very pleasant car to drive. Initially it was a little slow but with the Saab power upgrade it's become a joy with no fuel economy penalties for the additional 30% power that is noticeable. It has never let me down in two years of commuter motoring and a few motoring holidays and the only problem I have had with it that the internal heater fan mounting broke and could not be switched on in recirc mode. This was fixed under warranty.”

Mr Bruce Gray - Worcestershire

“Comfortable, fast, relatively economical, great boot. Suited to motorways rather than bends.”

Mr Peter Shaw - Surrey

“Supremely comfortable and supportive seats. Even though the car is aimed at junior execs, it is quite practical for families too with a good sized boot and folding rear seats. A few rattles but nothing too intrusive. Outstanding value for money compared to other junior execs. Would benefit from a more powerful diesel, however.”

Mr Paul Rose - Warks
Social Bookmarks
  • facebook
  • digg
  • delicious
  • furl
  • stumbleupon

Sponsored Results

RATINGS (1 is best)

Ratings

100th

50th

1st

  • Reliability
  • Build Quality
  • Running Costs
  • Performance
  • Braking
  • Ride Quality
  • Handling
  • Practicality
  • Comfort
  • Ease of Driving
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  •  
  • 82
  • 74
  • 56
  • 46
  • 59
  • 72
  • 77
  • 67
  • 13
  • 64

PREVIOUS RESULTS

  • Manufactured
  • 2006 Result
  • 2005 Result
  • 2004 Result
  • 2003 Result
  • 2002 Result
  • 2002-present
  • 58th
  • 48th
  • 45th
  • 57th
  • 74th

MANUFACTURER VERDICT

Despite its tiny model range and lack of innovative design in recent years, Saab can still rely on the support of its loyal customer base. However, with a three-place drop down the chart, are fans of the Swedish firm getting fed-up? Iffy reliability is matched by mid-table finishes in most other ranks. Only the outstanding comfort of SaabÂ’'s models has saved it from embarrassment.

FURTHER READING

OWN A CAR LIKE THIS?

Company Website | Media Information | Contact Us | Privacy Notice | Subs Info | Voucher Codes | Sitemap
Our Other Websites: Computer Buyer | Computer Shopper | Custom PC | Den of Geek | Evo | Fortean Times | IT Pro | Know Your Mobile | London is Free
MacUser | Men's Fitness | Micro Mart | Mobile Computer | Octane | PC Pro | The First Post | iGizmo | iMotor | DigitalSLR photography | bit-tech | Dennis Comunications | Mac Channel | Channel Pro