2008 Saab 9-3 - Performance Review

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Shopping for a 2008 Saab 9-3? MSRP: $28,445 - $45,640

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The reviewers at TheCarConnection.com agree with most of the online reviews about the 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible's performance. It's quick, but is it quick enough? For a tanning booth on wheels, it's probably just right.

According to The Auto Channel, the 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible is offered in an "all-turbo powertrain line-up," with the lower-end 2.0T getting a "210 hp 2.0-liter four cylinder" and the 9-3 Saab Convertible Aero having a "2.8-liter V6 rated at 255 hp." ConsumerGuide notes that "the 2.0T models are fairly quick, but launch response is dulled by turbo lag." Kelley Blue Book disagrees and believes that "the turbo four-cylinder engine only suffers a 'little turbo lag' even with the automatic transmission." As for upgrading to the Saab 9-3 Aero and its V-6, Car and Driver complains that the extra horsepower "were not readily apparent."

TheCarConnection.com notes the 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible’s top rating is more than 50 hp shy of the six-cylinder in the BMW 3-Series Convertible, for comparison. However, Saab promises 0-60 mph times of less than seven seconds. Saab offers a 280-hp version of this engine, as well as all-wheel drive, in the 9-3 wagon and sedan, but not in the convertible.

ForbesAutos reports that both the Saab 9-3 2.0T and Saab 9-3 Aero come standard with "a slick-shifting, six-speed manual transmission...recommended for driving enthusiasts"; they predict that commuters will prefer the five-speed automatic for the 2.0T and six-speed auto on the Aero--noting that the automatic transmissions "allow manual gear selection for those who like to have it both ways." The reviewers at Car and Driver weren't impressed with the six-speed manual shifter and claim that it "still feels as if it were attached to the transmission with ropes." Kelley Blue Book notes that the 9-3 Saab's automatic transmission experiences a "bit of downshifting delay and slight hesitation on light acceleration." On the other hand, they really like the six-speed manual and think that "it's among the best for easy shifting."

The Saab 9-3 Convertible 2.0T with the six-speed manual transmission achieves a respectable 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, according to the EPA. The V6 Aero model has not been tested by the EPA, but Saab claims 15/24 mpg (city/highway) with the automatic transmission and 16/26 mpg with the manual.

ForbesAutos notes that the 9-3 Saab's "sport-tuned suspension and standard stability control system ensure crisp and secure handling with a relatively calm ride." They also credit the Saab Convertible for its class-leading structural rigidity, "which means it shakes and rattles less over bumps" than many other open-top cars. ConsumerGuide agrees that the 9-3 Convertible's ride quality is "firm and poised" and compliant over the bumps. Kelley Blue Book says the 2.0T "exhibits a serious Eurosedan personality," but the steering has a light touch. Car and Driver agrees: "the steering still feels overly light most of the time."