2006 Saab 9-3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The 2006 model year brings more changes for Saab's 9-3 lineup. Six distinct models will continue to wear the 9-3 badge, but new a new trim...
The 2006 model year brings more changes for Saab's 9-3 lineup. Six distinct models will continue to wear the 9-3 badge, but new a new trim and body style debut this year. The Lear and Arc names have been dropped and replaced by a single 2.0T style, which is available with both the sedan and convertible bodies. A new wagon model, called the SportCombi, also arrives in 2006. The upscale aero trim returns, and it is now powered by a new V-6 engine. The Aero's previous 210 horsepower mill now powers the 2.0T, and the 175 horsepower engine had been discontinued.
The 2.0T sedans and convertibles are powered by the familiar 2.0 liter turbocharged inline four, which generates 210 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the 2.0T models, and a five-speed automatic transmission is optional. The Aero models house a new 2.8 liter V-6. This potent engine delivers 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and comes with a six-speed manual transmission. Aero buyers may also upgrade to a new six-speed automatic. The V-6 fuel economy is estimated at 18/28 mpg with the manual and 17/28 with the automatic.
There are four non-wagon models available this year: the Aero sedan and convertible, and the 2.0T sedan and convertible. Both styles are well-stocked with standard luxury features, with the Aero set apart by a few performance and appearance upgrades.
Owners and reviewers have continued to warn about the 9-3's questionable build quality. The interior is laden with plastic pieces, including flimsy dash-mounted cup holders. The "premium" audio system produces a very average sound, and other electronics (windows, sunroof, warning lights) are also reported to be a bit unreliable. The 9-3's unique styling continues to be a strong selling point, along with the abundant cargo space, fuel economy and overall ride comfort.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers have a positive impression of the 2006 Saab 9-3, frequently praising its powerful performance, unique design, and comfortable ride. Many appreciate the car's spirited handling and good fuel economy, especially on the highway. However, some owners note its limited interior space and occasional quality issues as downsides, particularly regarding the materials used and reliability."
I've had this car for about 5 years now and still love it! Drives excellent, handles even better and its very easy/low cost to maintain! Over the last few years, the car has met every need that I've had, its been very comfortable when taking long trips and very reliable when properly taken care of! Road noise is my main complaint about it, but certainly its not anything out of the ordinary but as you can expect its not a mercedes/bmw either. Performance wise the engine is more than enough for a family car, daily commute etc. I would buy this car again as well as recommend it to anyone!
April 2, 2014This car is comfortable, powerful, classy, sporty, and unique. It's not too big and not too small. The color is very nice in person. It's truly the best car I've had and I wish I could keep it until the wheels fall off. =)
August 21, 2013I bought the Saab 9-3 on a dare from my brother who said GM could not make a car that people would like over the long haul. Fortunately, this car has proven him wrong and made me a happy customer. As mentioned elsewhere, the car has good performance and can keep up with many V6 engines with 210 with the standard four turbo. Acceleration is not a sports car, but neither is it meant to be that. It is a good mid-sized sedan with spiritied performance, about 7.8 seconds 0-60 mph. The car has typical Saab build quality, a few rattles after nearly 40,000 miles, but only a couple of minor ones. Nothing else has gone wrong, and all service has been free up to 36,000 miles under the total care package that Saab offers for three years or 36K, whichever comes first. I only wish my Honda Accord (2003) was as good with a busted transmission, broken rear defroster, and recalled wiper motor in the first 76,000 miles! The appearance is fine and not exotic looking. A solid car with a solid imagine that is fairly aerodynamic. I get as much as 36 on the highway, ranging from 30-36 mpg. In the city, if I push the engine hard I can get it down to 16 mpg but under normal driving conditions get 22 mpg. Since the handling is great the ride is a little more bumpy than normal as I suspect the GM epsilon suspension (designed in Germany for Vauxhall and Opel orginally) was tuned for maximum handling, not ride quality. Still, it makes it fun to drive although not the smoothest ride. Want a smooth ride? Go buy a Lexus. Want fun? A Saab can fit the need.
June 12, 2009What owners say
I've had this car for about 5 years now and still love it! Drives excellent, handles even better and its very easy/low cost to maintain! Over the last few years, the car has met every need that I've had, its been very comfortable when taking long trips and very reliable when properly taken care of! Road noise is my main complaint about it, but certainly its not anything out of the ordinary but as you can expect its not a mercedes/bmw either. Performance wise the engine is more than enough for a family car, daily commute etc. I would buy this car again as well as recommend it to anyone!
April 2, 2014This car is comfortable, powerful, classy, sporty, and unique. It's not too big and not too small. The color is very nice in person. It's truly the best car I've had and I wish I could keep it until the wheels fall off. =)
August 21, 2013I bought the Saab 9-3 on a dare from my brother who said GM could not make a car that people would like over the long haul. Fortunately, this car has proven him wrong and made me a happy customer. As mentioned elsewhere, the car has good performance and can keep up with many V6 engines with 210 with the standard four turbo. Acceleration is not a sports car, but neither is it meant to be that. It is a good mid-sized sedan with spiritied performance, about 7.8 seconds 0-60 mph. The car has typical Saab build quality, a few rattles after nearly 40,000 miles, but only a couple of minor ones. Nothing else has gone wrong, and all service has been free up to 36,000 miles under the total care package that Saab offers for three years or 36K, whichever comes first. I only wish my Honda Accord (2003) was as good with a busted transmission, broken rear defroster, and recalled wiper motor in the first 76,000 miles! The appearance is fine and not exotic looking. A solid car with a solid imagine that is fairly aerodynamic. I get as much as 36 on the highway, ranging from 30-36 mpg. In the city, if I push the engine hard I can get it down to 16 mpg but under normal driving conditions get 22 mpg. Since the handling is great the ride is a little more bumpy than normal as I suspect the GM epsilon suspension (designed in Germany for Vauxhall and Opel orginally) was tuned for maximum handling, not ride quality. Still, it makes it fun to drive although not the smoothest ride. Want a smooth ride? Go buy a Lexus. Want fun? A Saab can fit the need.
June 12, 2009I love my car, it has the speed I was looking for, it hugs the curves...I haven't had any problems with it. It is a great car for road trips because of the smooth ride. The interior is spacious and comfortable, the exterior is sexy and sporty. It gets great gas mileage and it is the perfect car for me. =]
September 8, 2009Best in its class, powerful V6 Turbo 250HP engine, fantastic handling & braking. Service only after 20,000 Km. Low cost of ownership. Most fun to drive - inspiring piece of machinery, very responsive. I just love it! What more can I say?
July 19, 2009You won't see this car on every block like an Acura TL or Civic. This car is quick, not too bad on gas, and includes 3 years of oil changes and maintenance. The Aero model also comes with a 2 day driving experience at Road Atlanta. This car will set you back for new breaks when it's time but the breaks are very good. Handling is also very good with the back two wheels using passive steering.
November 13, 2008Great acceleration, feel, and breaking. Best looking family sport-sedan out there.
June 9, 2008fantastic comfortable drive , good acceleration , good looks , handles well, corners well ,leather interior , cruise and climate control, cheaper than a bmw !
July 5, 2008raining sensing wipers, heated seats, rear parking sensors, six speed auto trans, xenon head lights, silver sport trim on steering wheel, two tone colored seats, amazing power available whenever it is needed, this car is the perfect size for zipping in and out of traffic and it's extremely comfortable.
September 2, 2013I love this car. It rides like a cloud and is a very dependable car. Whenever I take it out, it shows me something new. Gas mileage is awesome and can go on the highway for 32 mpg. I love it.
February 12, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $42,620 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.8L 250 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 12.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $37,220 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.0L 210 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 23 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $32,620 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.8L 250 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $26,620 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 210 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
