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TheCarConnection.com's editors read the latest reviews on the new 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible to write this comprehensive review. Our car experts also drove the Saab 9-3 Convertible to be able to deliver our definitive opinion on the car, to compare it with other cars in the class, and to offer our take when other reviews differ.
Likes:
- Convertible appeal
- Four-seat utility
- Good interior room
Dislikes:
- Expensive
- That distinctive style won’t appeal to everyone
- Quirky bits, such as the ignition placement
- Slower than the average Euro convertible
The 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible is newly restyled and reengineered, and it has four-seat capacity along with a choice of turbocharged engines.
The 2.0T models come standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 210 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual is the standard gearbox, while a five-speed automatic is an option. The 2.0T also sports 16-inch wheels and standard tire pressure monitors.
The Aero model gets its motivation from a turbo 2.8-liter V-6 with 255 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a six-speed manual standard; a six-speed automatic is an option. Saab promises 0-60 mph times of less than seven seconds. Saab offers a 280-horsepower version of this engine, as well as all-wheel drive, in the 9-3 wagon and sedan, but not in the convertible.
A power driver seat is standard on the 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible, along with a Bose audio system with XM Satellite Radio and OnStar. Bi-xenon cornering headlamps will be an option in the United States. An iPod connectivity kit is available, but Bluetooth isn't offered at all.
We like the Saab convertible for what it is, but while it's a big step forward for the brand, it's just not the same proposition as the four-seat convertibles from Audi and BMW, which we like a little better. It's neither as quick as the twin-turbo BMW 335i nor as sleek as the Audi, and both of those convertibles offer much sharper handling and a more controlled feel.
