Saab 9-3 Saloon (2002 - 2011) 2.2TiD Vector 4d (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Seeing as I also have an Alfa GTV V6 for the summer months, probably a bit Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

My family like it and they feel safe, which is the main thing. As for anyone else, who cares!

Would you buy this car again and why?

I think I would go for one of the later cars when values drop some more, very much like the 9-3 TTiD 180 (in black). As I do a lot of driving, the safety aspect of these cars is very important and not much comes close to a Saab (except a Volvo).

What are you likely to buy next?

No plans (at the moment).

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,595

When did you buy the car?

March 2013

Did you get a good deal and why?

The deal was very good, to include: 6 months tax, 3 months warranty, new MOT, full service, x4 new all season tyres, alloy wheel refurb, few tidy up bits and a replacement waterpump. Stereo was broken, so got the cost of replacement refunded so I could sort it out locally.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I wanted a good value, comfortable motorway cruiser that had a high level of specification, safety and economy.

What was the dealer like?

Very pleasant independent that I made a 150 mile trip to go an see this car, Good phone discussion prior to visit, very helpful in every way possible. Picked me up from train station on collection day.

What's it like to drive?

Compared to my previous Alfa, the steering is a bit vague when pushing on, but as I bought it for motorway crunching it does the job spot on. Feels safe and secure, quite comfortable cruise machine.

What's it like to park?

Not had any issues, but thinking of getting the SPA pack added (parking sensors) for the rear, as its a little awkward to judge in tight spaces.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Early days yet - but the stereo panel was broken from the start and got a replacement ICM from Saab Specialist (cost covered by dealer for this to be sorted).

What's most practical about your car?

Very spacious, huge boot for a saloon car with 60/40 fold back seats make it a good load carrier when required. Plenty of in-cabin storage bins, air cooled box, several cups holders for all passengers. Well thought out.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Just the usual toys, like cruise and dual zone climate system.