Saab 9-3

Name: 2001 Saab 9-3
Brand: Saab

EPA MPG: NA

Owner Reported MPG:

EPA MPG: NA

Owner Reported MPG:

RECALL ALERT: There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Reliability Details

Owner Satisfaction Details

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First Take

The 9-3 is basically Saabs quirky 900 model, which dates back to 1994. Thats unfortunate, because some far more fundamental changes were needed beyond the name change. The base 2.0-liter, 185-hp turbo Four feels sluggish on takeoff; more powerful versions power the SE and Viggen models. Traction control is now standard on all models. The ride is stiff, and wind noise is pronounced. Handling is secure but not nimble. The cockpit is narrow, especially in the footwells. The rear seat is cramped, the trunk is large, and the hatchback configuration adds versatility. All in all, this car is seriously outdated, outclassed and expensive for what you get.

2001 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

No Data Available

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction 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

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

IIHS Side Crash

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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2001 Luxury compact cars Ratings

2001 Saab 9-3

$3,025 - $5,050

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2001 Audi A4

$3,075 - $3,150

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2001 BMW 3 Series

$3,375 - $4,525

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2001 Buick Regal

$3,350 - $3,475

EPA MPG NA

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2001 Lexus IS

$ NA

EPA MPG 20 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2001 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

$3,075 - $3,200

EPA MPG 22 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2001 Volvo S60

$3,175 - $3,350

EPA MPG 24 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

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Features & Specs

2-door hatchback

4-door hatchback

convertible

2 front, 3 rear

Front

2-liter 4 turbo (205 hp)
2-liter 4 turbo (185 hp)
2.3-liter 4 turbo (230 hp)

5-speed manual
4-speed automatic

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.

Read more about extended warranties

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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.