Saab 9-3

Name: 2005 Saab 9-3
Brand: Saab

EPA MPG: 24 mpg

RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

CR's Take

The 9-3 is a huge improvement over its predecessor, but it doesn't match up to the class best. Handling is sporty, capable, and enjoyable. Braking performance was exceptionally good. A stiff ride transmits each road flaw to the passengers, especially in the Aero model we tested with 17-inch performance tires. A lot of road rumble further detracted from comfort. The 210-hp, turbocharged engine delivers relatively quick performance but lacks the low-end punch of competitive V6s. The front seats are well-sculpted. Rear seat room is tight.

Reliability Details

Owner Satisfaction Details

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2005 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

This Car

100

0 - 100

Saab 9-3

vs. Similar Cars

Acura TSX

BMW 3 Series

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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2005 Luxury small cars Ratings

2005 Saab 9-3

$3,200 - $4,875

EPA MPG 24 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2005 Acura TSX

$5,125 - $5,525

EPA MPG 26 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2005 Audi A4

$3,225 - $5,775

EPA MPG 25 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2005 BMW 3 Series

$4,400 - $5,775

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2005 Infiniti G

$4,625 - $5,625

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2005 Lexus IS

$ NA

EPA MPG 20 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

$3,650 - $6,950

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2005 Volvo S40

$3,475 - $3,750

EPA MPG 25 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2005 Volvo S60

$3,950 - $4,950

EPA MPG 25 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2005 Volvo V50

$3,600 - $3,775

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

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Features & Specs

convertible

sedan

2 front, 3 rear

Front

2-liter 4 turbo (210 hp)
2-liter 4 turbo (175 hp)

5-speed manual
5-speed automatic
6-speed manual

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

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Model History

2007-2012

2007 Redesign Year

For 2007, the car was freshened with revised styling, better interior controls, an available AWD model and a turbocharged six-cylinder engine. While boasting impressive crash test scores and secure handling, the upscale European sport sedan category in which it competed was bristling with more capable offerings. The ride is stiff, the cabin is noisy and cramped, and fit and finish aren't as good as buyers expect in this segment.

2003-2006

2003 Redesign Year

The original 9-3 had secure handling, a large and versatile hatchback, and a full complement of safety features. However, it rode stiffly, was noisy, and had a cramped interior. For 2003, the hatchback was discontinued, leaving a four-door sedan, convertible, or wagon with a choice of turbo four-cylinder engines. Good points were sporty and capable handling, along with good braking. The front seats are well-sculpted, but the rear seat is tight. Some controls are overly complex and the 9-3 isn't as comfortable as some competitors.

1999-2002

1999 Redesign Year

The Saab 900 was renamed the 9-3 for 1999. The turbo Four and automatic transmission made for a lethargic takeoff. The V6 was dropped, and a high-performance, 230-hp Viggen model was added. A stiff ride, narrow cockpit, and cramped rear seat remained.