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2002
Saab 9-3

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$27,995
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 5dr HB SE
    Starts at
    $27,995
    21 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 3dr HB Viggen
    Starts at
    $38,095
    19 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 5dr HB Viggen
    Starts at
    $38,095
    19 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Conv SE
    Starts at
    $39,995
    21 City / 33 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Conv Viggen
    Starts at
    $44,995
    19 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3 2002 Saab 9-3

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Expert 2002 Saab 9-3 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By
Full article
our expert's take

STOCKHOLM, Sweden — The first Saab I ever sat in was a vintage 96 — a Sixties-era hatchback with a quirky two-stroke, three-cylinder engine and a distinctive teardrop shape — that was owned by a high school buddy. It didn’t run and, to the best of my recollection, never did — even though we tried to fire it up a couple times.

Later, early in my automotive journalism career, I was lucky enough to test drive one of the first turbocharged Saabs, a black 99 hatchback. An experimental model that supposedly was one of the first of its kind in North America, this particular Saab evokes fond and brittle memories: the indescribable sensation of feeling the turbo kick in under heavy throttle and the wacky-looking Saab — it vaguely resembled a Bauhaus-inspired bathtub on wheels — literally lurching to one side, a victim of prodigious torque steer that has marked virtually every turbocharged Saab since then.

That car was great fun — until I was victimized by a hit-and-run driver in, of all things, a little red Pinto who fled the scene after she had managed to accordion the front end while running a red light in downtown Detroit.

Some three decades later, with one of Europe’s most idiosyncratic automakers now part of the General Motors Corp. family, it seemed appropriate to sample the newest Saab, the redesigned 9-3, on the company’s home turf in Sweden.

After a 225-kilometer drive from Stockholm north to the province of Uppsala, this amalgam of German-Swedish engineering — much of the new chassis is shared with the Opel Vectra — looks and feels more like a GM product than it does a Saab.

And that’s not necessarily a condemnation.

The biggest stretch is the switch of Saab’s mainstream car from its traditional hatchback body style to a more conventional four-door sedan configuration, a blatant attempt to reach a much broader audience that does not, as a rule, cotton to hatchbacks. This move alone causes the new 9-3 to surrender a good portion of its “Saabness,” despite the automaker’s mostly successful efforts to carry over the trademark front-end styling from the previous generation. The new shape is clean and appealing; it’s just not terribly distinctive.

Once ensconced in the cockpit, most traces of the former 9-3 have been erased, except for Saab’s stubborn insistence on locating the ignition switch below the shift lever on the center console (a dubious hallmark that may placate Saab loyalists, but will likely leave newcomers to the brand scratching their heads in puzzlement).

A surprisingly bland and generic instrument panel has replaced what was, at least for me, a striking and very individual interior face on earlier Saabs. The only other real giveaway on the new car, outside of the griffin logo in the center of the steering wheel, is the clever design of the little joysticks that control airflow through the vents.

Rear-seat occupants will find that, with a longer wheelbase and wider body , the new car feels much roomier than its predecessor. Trunk space, however, has been seriously compromised in the switch from five to four doors (14.8 cubic feet vs. 21.7 on the outgoing model).

In keeping with Saab’s long-term commitment to world-class safety, standard features on the new 9-3 include antilock brakes, traction and stability control, side air bags for front passengers and side air curtains that extend to the rear compartment.

The influence of GM and Opel and on the new 9-3 isn’t all bad. The new car is fun to drive, if not particularly memorable. The chassis is taut and compliant (at least on the smooth Swedish roads), the steering progressive and controlled, the brakes crisp and responsive. Both the standard 15-inch tires and the uplevel 17s exhibit good grip, without much sacrifice in ride comfort.

Indeed, the precision and solid feel of the chassis bode well for next year’s replacement for the Chevrolet Malibu. Like the Vectra and the new 9-3, the 004 Malibu will be built on a version of this corporate platform, which carries the internal GM designation Epsilon.

The choice of turbocharged powerplants includes a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder that delivers 175 horsepower and a higher-pressure 2.0 that makes 210 horses. Both engines are based on the GM L850 global family that also does duty in Opel and Saturn vehicles, and have been extensively reworked by Saab engineers.

We were able to sample a base 9-3 Linear model with the 175 horsepower engine and an Aisin-Warner five-speed Triptronic-style automatic transmission, as well as the higher-output model with a Saab six-speed manual gearbox (even though the latter configuration won’t be offered in the United States until next March).

Both engine/transmission combinations are lively and entertaining, yet don’t provide the same sense of exhilaration and that unmistakable kick-in-the-pants rush that earlier Saab turbos did when the blower suddenly kicked in with a whoosh.

Saab, with a huge dollop of technical assistance from Russelsheim, has created a really terrific Opel — a competent mid-size four-door sedan that is at least as good as the Volvo S60, if not quite competitive in performance, looks and panache as BMW’s benchmark 3-series.

It just doesn’t seem like much of a Saab.

2002 Saab 9-3 review: Our expert's take
By

STOCKHOLM, Sweden — The first Saab I ever sat in was a vintage 96 — a Sixties-era hatchback with a quirky two-stroke, three-cylinder engine and a distinctive teardrop shape — that was owned by a high school buddy. It didn’t run and, to the best of my recollection, never did — even though we tried to fire it up a couple times.

Later, early in my automotive journalism career, I was lucky enough to test drive one of the first turbocharged Saabs, a black 99 hatchback. An experimental model that supposedly was one of the first of its kind in North America, this particular Saab evokes fond and brittle memories: the indescribable sensation of feeling the turbo kick in under heavy throttle and the wacky-looking Saab — it vaguely resembled a Bauhaus-inspired bathtub on wheels — literally lurching to one side, a victim of prodigious torque steer that has marked virtually every turbocharged Saab since then.

That car was great fun — until I was victimized by a hit-and-run driver in, of all things, a little red Pinto who fled the scene after she had managed to accordion the front end while running a red light in downtown Detroit.

Some three decades later, with one of Europe’s most idiosyncratic automakers now part of the General Motors Corp. family, it seemed appropriate to sample the newest Saab, the redesigned 9-3, on the company’s home turf in Sweden.

After a 225-kilometer drive from Stockholm north to the province of Uppsala, this amalgam of German-Swedish engineering — much of the new chassis is shared with the Opel Vectra — looks and feels more like a GM product than it does a Saab.

And that’s not necessarily a condemnation.

The biggest stretch is the switch of Saab’s mainstream car from its traditional hatchback body style to a more conventional four-door sedan configuration, a blatant attempt to reach a much broader audience that does not, as a rule, cotton to hatchbacks. This move alone causes the new 9-3 to surrender a good portion of its “Saabness,” despite the automaker’s mostly successful efforts to carry over the trademark front-end styling from the previous generation. The new shape is clean and appealing; it’s just not terribly distinctive.

Once ensconced in the cockpit, most traces of the former 9-3 have been erased, except for Saab’s stubborn insistence on locating the ignition switch below the shift lever on the center console (a dubious hallmark that may placate Saab loyalists, but will likely leave newcomers to the brand scratching their heads in puzzlement).

A surprisingly bland and generic instrument panel has replaced what was, at least for me, a striking and very individual interior face on earlier Saabs. The only other real giveaway on the new car, outside of the griffin logo in the center of the steering wheel, is the clever design of the little joysticks that control airflow through the vents.

Rear-seat occupants will find that, with a longer wheelbase and wider body , the new car feels much roomier than its predecessor. Trunk space, however, has been seriously compromised in the switch from five to four doors (14.8 cubic feet vs. 21.7 on the outgoing model).

In keeping with Saab’s long-term commitment to world-class safety, standard features on the new 9-3 include antilock brakes, traction and stability control, side air bags for front passengers and side air curtains that extend to the rear compartment.

The influence of GM and Opel and on the new 9-3 isn’t all bad. The new car is fun to drive, if not particularly memorable. The chassis is taut and compliant (at least on the smooth Swedish roads), the steering progressive and controlled, the brakes crisp and responsive. Both the standard 15-inch tires and the uplevel 17s exhibit good grip, without much sacrifice in ride comfort.

Indeed, the precision and solid feel of the chassis bode well for next year’s replacement for the Chevrolet Malibu. Like the Vectra and the new 9-3, the 004 Malibu will be built on a version of this corporate platform, which carries the internal GM designation Epsilon.

The choice of turbocharged powerplants includes a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder that delivers 175 horsepower and a higher-pressure 2.0 that makes 210 horses. Both engines are based on the GM L850 global family that also does duty in Opel and Saturn vehicles, and have been extensively reworked by Saab engineers.

We were able to sample a base 9-3 Linear model with the 175 horsepower engine and an Aisin-Warner five-speed Triptronic-style automatic transmission, as well as the higher-output model with a Saab six-speed manual gearbox (even though the latter configuration won’t be offered in the United States until next March).

Both engine/transmission combinations are lively and entertaining, yet don’t provide the same sense of exhilaration and that unmistakable kick-in-the-pants rush that earlier Saab turbos did when the blower suddenly kicked in with a whoosh.

Saab, with a huge dollop of technical assistance from Russelsheim, has created a really terrific Opel — a competent mid-size four-door sedan that is at least as good as the Volvo S60, if not quite competitive in performance, looks and panache as BMW’s benchmark 3-series.

It just doesn’t seem like much of a Saab.

Factory warranties

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years / 50,000 miles

Consumer reviews

4.2 / 5
Based on 27 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.3
Interior 4.1
Performance 4.4
Value 4.3
Exterior 4.5
Reliability 4.0

Most recent

  • Car that definitely fits personality

    I continue to have the pleasure of owning and driving my 2002 SAAB 9-3 for 18 years. It has transitioned from weekend drive to daily commute, which has been nice. I enjoy everything about it, from its quirkiness to unique yet timeless presence. I have had fairly all standard work done on it, in accordance with the maturity of the car. I receive compliments from you
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    15 people out of 15 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Best car I’ve ever owned

    I’ve owned my 2002 9-3 for 16 years, have had many cars and this is the best, absolutely love it. Reliable, great in snow, 5 speed manual makes it sporty, handles well and engine is bullet-proof. Once got a full sized washer in the trunk. I drive it almost every day and still fun to drive. Take good care of it and you won’t be disappointed, my youngest son was raised in this car and now drives it when he can pry it out of my hands!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    7 people out of 7 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best car ive ever owned

    This has got to be the best car ive ever owned, even after wrecking it. I got it fixed aftet 2 yeats and it started righ up and is just as dependable as it ever was. Ill keep this car as long as possible. I love it
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    5 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Exciting and comfortable European ride.

    Great drop-top with performance, styling, and reliability. Too bad this company stopped making autos (but continue to make airplanes). I'd like to have kept mine, but my older self needed something a bit more fitting my age (but, not a wheelchair, mind you!).
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • So far very reliable

    Fast & Fun little car. Have made some minor repairs, since I bought it. But we?ll worth it. Will look for another one just like it some day.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • cant beat the car for the price

    i have had 6 saabs ,900,900se,9-5 at this time own two a 1995 900 se turbo 5-speed convertible,and a 2002 saab 9-3 se convertible turbo automatic. these saabs come with 4 wheel disc,weather band, black out dash lights ,automatic one button lowering of all windows,good 4cyl turbos with great pwr,and ride good compaired to other vecs ..wish they were still manufactured.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Beach car

    It's an excellent riding good-looking comfortable vehicle I'm just not into convertibles. I bought the car originally for my daughter who had already bought a car before I know
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Good performance on a budget

    2002 saab 9-3 is a fun car to drive, leather interior add comfort and the driving position is alright, though the steering wheel only telescopes so taller drivers may find it a bit tight. the car has a turbo and has a bit more punch than you'd expect from a 4 beater from the early 2000s
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 3.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Love my Saab

    I have a manual transmission Saab q-3 se. Great interior very upscale look to it. Leather seats, heated seats, hatchback, runs great drives like a champ. Gets great gas milage and looks great on the outside as well.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • This car... just wow!

    I just bought a Viggen, and it's amazing. When I say this thing is the most fun car I've ever driven, that is an epic understatement. This thing is a monster! It puts 260 ft/lbs through its front wheels! Even with TCS, the wheel wants to rip out of my hand. The handling isn't as precise as I'm used to, but the ride is awesome, for a sports model. The convertible top is tight as a drum, and there's no squeaks/rattles. The seats are comfy, and the seat heaters are a perfect temperature. The cons are, the digital display in the dash is fragile. I hate power seats, but that's my personal thing. Everything electric shuts down when the engine's off, so no rolling up the windows, or seat adjustments, just the radio. Lastly, the trunk is tiny. If you want to put the top down, you're left with a space 13" tall. Also, parts prices are insane. Let none of the cons deter you. This car puts the Enzyte smile on my face. Ifyou're looking for aconvertible that's fun, fast, and safe, then this is it. My only regret, I now live in fear a Viggen sspecific part will fail.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • good for $ spent

    This is a very good car, with an excellent reliability record and outstanding safety record. When you can get a $ 40,000 car for $ 7000, 11 years old, that's worth using Cars.com every time I need a vehicle----for myself, my business, or anyone in my business. Thank you CARS. com !! SCE. In the Biz.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Doing Business with Tony

    I went to Saldutti Vehicle Re-marketing, Met Tony, the owner. Great guy, he showed me the the Saab I was interested in. The interior was in excellent condition. all power package was in working condition. the paint was in good condition with a few minor chips. Tony pulled it out so I could take it for a ride. I was purchasing this car for my daughter, and I wanted to make sure she would have a safe car to drive. I had asked Tony all he knew about the car and to my surprise he was honest. I already checked the car out and everything he said was fact no games and no hard sale. The car ran a bit rough but it was an easy fix, with proper oil and high octane gas. I took it to my saab mechanic and he informed me I had a really great car. The O2 sensor needed to be replaced, I fixed that and had the oil change, and had the car completely detail. My daughter was so happy with her new car. I got it for a great price and an addition 425.00 for the oil, gas, detail and sensor, not a bad deal. When and if I need another car, I will call Tony Saldutti first. Ask the right question and he will always give you the right answers.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2002 Saab 9-3?

The 2002 Saab 9-3 is available in 2 trim levels:

  • SE (2 styles)
  • Viggen (3 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2002 Saab 9-3?

The 2002 Saab 9-3 offers up to 21 MPG in city driving and 33 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

Is the 2002 Saab 9-3 reliable?

The 2002 Saab 9-3 has an average reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2002 Saab 9-3 owners.

Is the 2002 Saab 9-3 a good Hatchback?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2002 Saab 9-3. 92.6% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.2 / 5
Based on 27 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.3
  • Interior: 4.1
  • Performance: 4.4
  • Value: 4.3
  • Exterior: 4.5
  • Reliability: 4.0
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