Acceleration
"2.0T models fairly quick, but launch, passing response dulled by brief turbo lag; test convertible with automatic did 7.8 sec 0-60 mph. V6 helps Aero models feel stronger from a stop, furnish better passing response, but they also suffer some turbo lag. Saab says Aero sedan does 6.4 sec 0-60 with manual transmission, 6.6 with automatic. Manual has light feel, long throws."

Value
"Saab's 9-3s are Recommended as dynamically capable, fun-to-drive cars, especially the solidly built convertible. Direct competitors from BMW and Lexus have rear-wheel-drive designs that handle better in fast cornering, and those, plus the Audi A4, offer all-wheel drive for all-weather security. But 9-3's 2.0T models beat most rivals on price, and the Aero's turbocharged V6 allows it to compete in power. "

Ride
"All 9-3s firm, poised, but 2.0Ts are most compliant over bumps. Taut sport suspension, low-profile tires cause Aeros to thump, jiggle over larger bumps. Convertible structural impressively rigid, with little of the body flex found in some 4- and 5-passenger droptops."

Economy
Automatic-transmission 2.0T convertible averaged 24.0 mpg in mostly highway driving. No opportunity yet to measure Aero. Saab recommends premium-grade fuel for all 9-3s.

Noise
"Any 9-3 has more tire noise than class norm; SportCombi has more than sedan. Engines generally muted, but whine during acceleration. Wind rush apparent at highway speed, but doesn't disturb conversation. Convertibles permit more wind, road noise, but are not uncomfortably loud."

Comfort - Front
"Comfortable seats with good lateral support. Standard tilt/telescope steering wheel helps tailor position, though tallest drivers might wish for more rearward seat travel. Rear roof pillars, high headrests obscure aft visibility on all body styles."

Comfort - Rear
"Good head clearance. Knee room in sedans, wagons disappointingly tight if front seats more than halfway back. Same for toe space if driver seat isn't elevated. Rear leg room cramped in convertibles, and 2-dr body style taxes entry/exit."

Controls
"Main gauges easy to read. Most switchgear in center dashboard pod, angled toward driver. Climate, audio readouts in dashtop screen are separate from actual controls, requiring driver to look in two places to accomplish one task. Audio-system adjustments not self-explanatory. Ignition switch is on console, between front seats--a Saab tradition we find unobjectionable. Contemporary-design interior assembled with care, but not all cabin plastics up to premium class benchmarks. Turn-signal, windshield-wiper stalks suffer brittle movement. No opportunity to test with navigation system."

Cargo Room
"Sedan has tall trunk with considerable volume. SportCombi delivers true wagon utility. All have plenty of interior storage space. Glovebox door stylishly integrated into dashboard and opens to reveal large, deep compartment. Convertible's 12.4-cu-ft trunk among largest of any ragtop, but shrinks to 8.3 cu ft when top is stowed."