Model tested: Saab 9-3 2.0t BioPower Vector Sport
Price: £25,385
Date tested: January 2008
Road tester: Andy Goodwin

Overall rating: 74%
The Saab 9-3 is the mainstay of the Swedish manufacturer's range. Renowned for its durability and practicality, Saab has a strong following, but competition is intense; can the 9-3 cut it?

1. Looks
The 9-3 has always had a subtle but elegant appearance, and its facelifted nose and tail enhance this while giving it a touch of aggression.
7/10

2. Looks inside
Simple, comfortable and stylish describe the interior. The seats are comfortable and well suited to long journeys. The chunky steering wheel has controls for the stereo and major instruments are clearly marked.
7/10

3. Practicality
Rear head room and leg room are good, the 425-litre boot swallows suitcases with ease and there are useful cubby holes dotted around the cabin.
7/10

4. Ride and Handling
The 9-3 is a quiet and very refined cruiser which cossets passengers and eases away the miles. But, if you push harder the 9-3 feels less composed. Our Vector Sport was happiest during relaxed driving.
7/10

5. Performance
With 200bhp the 2-litre turbocharged engine gives 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds and a 143mph top speed. Where the car excels is on the motorway; the six-speed gearchange requires a firm hand and feels imprecise.
7/10

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6. Running Costs
Our 9-3 2.0t averaged 32mpg; the diesel 1.9TiD averages more than 40mpg. Depreciation is poor while insurance ranges between groups 11 and 17.
8/10

7. Reliability
The Saab 9-3 has a well-proven reliability record and shares many components with the Vauxhall Vectra, so parts are widespread and thoroughly tested. The 9-3 feels extremely solid while on the move, and appears to be well built from the outside.
8/10

8. Safety
The 9-3 has a five-star EuroNCAP rating. There are driver, passenger and curtain airbags plus electronic brake force distribution.
9/10

9. Equipment
All 9-3s have traction control, dual-zone air conditioning, electric windows, CD-player and an MP3 connection. Most models come with rear parking sensors. An omission is the lack of a rear windscreen wiper, making visibility poor in our wet weather.
7/10

10. X-Factor
The Saab 9-3 has excellent refinement which lends itself perfectly to long distance mile munching. Appreciate this and Saab's subtle design ethos and you will get on well with the 9-3.
7/10