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The Bottom Line:
Good crash-test scores and ample safety gear give the 2008 Saab 9-3 a high safety ranking from TheCarConnection.com.
Around The Web
“A long list of standard safety equipment”
“crash-resistant structure and features”
Five stars, driver side impact
Top Safety Pick
FEATURES | 8 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
Buyers of Aero models are entitled to a session at the Aero Academy, to learn to drive their Saabs safely and effectively
Kelley Blue Book
The hydraulically-powered, triple layer roof deploys in just 20 seconds
The Auto Channel
An entirely new optional leather interior makes its debut for 2008
Cars.com
The 9-3 Saab convertible comes with many of the expected--and some unusual--features, but considering its rather high MSRP, that shouldn't be a surprise.
As expected, ConsumerGuide lists a plethora of standard features, including "Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls,...tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat, driver-seat lumbar adjustment (convertible), center console,...heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player,...[and] floormats." At the other end of the spectrum, Kelley Blue Book reports that Saab 9-3 Aero buyers "are entitled to a session at the Aero Academy, to learn to drive their Saabs safely and effectively."
Among less esoteric features, Cars.com reports that an "entirely new optional leather interior makes its debut for 2008. Gray is out as a color choice; it's been replaced by black." XM Satellite Radio and OnStar are also now standard on the Saab 9-3 Convertible.
As is typical, moving up to the 9-3 Saab Aero trim means getting more goodies standard. ConsumerGuide reports these to include "8-way power passenger seat...[and] Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer." According to Kelley Blue Book, Saab 9-3 2.0T models have 14-spoke, 16-inch alloy wheels, while the Aero package offers larger 17-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels, and low-profile tires.
One standard feature of the Saab 9-3 2008 Convertible that impressed most reviewers consulted by TheCarConnection.com is the power convertible top. The Auto Channel notes that "the hydraulically-powered, triple layer roof automatically latches to the windshield header and deploys just 20 seconds making it among the fastest in its class."
Dashboard controls are an area where reviewers have mixed feelings about the 9-3 Saab's offerings. Kelley Blue Book says, "Straightforward in layout, the instrument layout was clearly developed for easy and helpful reading." According to ConsumerGuide, "the audio and climate controls are intuitive and easy to operate," but they don't like the optional navigation system that "absorbs audio controls" and complicates what should be simple adjustment. Edmunds calls the Saab 9-3's climate and audio controls "generic GM units," but the "longstanding Saab-isms remain, including a floor-mounted ignition switch and a night panel button that darkens all non-essential dashboard lights to reduce eye fatigue."
Conclusion
The 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible is well appointed, but it's pricey even without some of the options.
