Saab 9-3 Sportwagon (05-11) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on 09 November 2005

Last Updated: 20 November 2009

Estate cars used to look like saloons with some extra bodywork grafted on, but this is no longer the case and the Saab 9-3 Sportwagon is an excellent example of how designers seamlessly integrate the estate body so the car looks like it was designed as a wagon from the outset. The engines are the same as found in the saloon and the modern interpretation of the Saab interior is only marred by too many obvious cost savings in the trim. Sadly the model is starting to feel dated and although Saab promotes it as being sporty to drive, it's not as enjoyable as other similar-sized cars. The fact it's an estate adds practicality but if you want outright carrying ability, look elsewhere. A facelift in mid 2007 brought a much more aggressive look and a redesigned interior too.

3.5 out of 5

Other Saab reviews

3.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£18,515 - £34,950

Used price range:

£2,128 - £18,200

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Sharp styling on newer models, strong turbocharged engine performance, comfortable ride

Lack of rear space, feels dated inside, alternatives are better to drive, boot isn't particularly generous

Driving & Performance

Performance

4 out of 5
"There's a single, non-turbo 1.8-litre petrol engine at the bottom of the line-up which is a little..."
Handling

3.5 out of 5
"The ride is excellent on standard models, smooth over every surface, without being wallowy. The..."

Comfort

Comfort

3 out of 5
"Front-seat passengers fare better than those in the rear in the 9-3 Sportwagon, although Saab could..."
Practicality

3.5 out of 5
"It may be more versatile than the 9-3 saloon, but the Sportwagon doesn't match a BMW 3-Series..."
Equipment

4 out of 5
"All Sportwagons have a CD player, air conditioning and electric windows. Linear models have 15-inch..."
Behind the wheel

3 out of 5
"Saab likes to make associations with it's aviation heritage and the dash layout of the 9-3 certainly..."

Costs

Running costs

3 out of 5
"Priced to undercut premium rivals from Audi and BMW, but other cars with 'quality' badges could pose..."
Green credentials

2.5 out of 5
"The 9-3 performs reasonably on the eco front but there are no specific low emissions models..."

Safety & Reliability

Safety

4 out of 5
"The standard 9-3 gained the maximum five stars for occupant protection in the European New Car..."
Reliability

4 out of 5
"Saabs tend to be very reliable. The only question marks would be over the cheaper-feeling pieces of..."

Buying & Selling

Buying new

3 out of 5
"The facelift in 2007 breathed new life into the 9-3 with a sportier and more athletic look. But that..."
Buying used

3.5 out of 5
"The Saab 9-3 Sportwagon was launched three years after the saloon model so it's less common on the..."
Selling

3 out of 5
"Saabs have quite a following among buyers looking for a leftfield choice. All are easy to sell on..."