USED Saab 9-3 Saloon (02 - 12)

My car

I got the Hirsch performance upgrade which I highly recommend. Increases this car's output to 175 bhp and 370 Nm. Makes it even more driveable. Great for overtaking on B-roads. Very comfortable car - everyone who travels in it comments on the really comfortable seats. I now have just over 58000 miles on the clock. I've had relatively trouble free motoring. Any issues have been efficiently dealt with by Ivan Wilson Saab in Coleraine. The car hits 60 mpg on motorway cruises and b-road cruises. Still returns mid 40's when the Hirsch effect is called into action. I like the intuitive dash layout, everything is easy to see and easy to reach. Good spec on the Vector Sport trim. I would avoid the lower trim-levels.

My car

Just over a months ownership and so far all is good.

I came from an '03 2.2 Vectra and I am a little surprised that this 'top of the range' SAAB Aero Sport isn't as well equipped as my base model Vauxhall.It has no auto dimming mirror,no rain sensitive wipers and no 'one-touch' close on the windows.However when I hear that glorious V6 kick in I can forgive it.

I went for the auto and the engine/gearbox combination is superb.This thing pulls really well,but with 250 BHP it ought to.The downside of course is the sub-20 mpg fuel consumption if you use the power.I have yet to try it on a long run but I don't expect to see much over 25 mpg.

Handling is very good,however the ride can be a little 'bumpy' on poor roads due to the sports suspension.The seats are the best I have ever sat in,giving good support whilst being very comfortable.

Overall I am very pleased with it.The best points are the engine and looks,the only niggles being the equipment levels.

Time will tell with the reliability side of things,but with 15 months of manufacturers warranty left,hopefully any problems will be sorted by my dealer.Fingers crossed!

My car

Have owned the 150bhp TDI Vector for just over 3 years from new.

First impressions are that the car looks great and the half leather seats and neat cabin are inviting. The performance for a diesel is pretty good and handling is OK, if not as great as some cars I've driven, but OK for a familay saloon.

Owning the Saab has been an interesting experience, all I can say is, fortunately I've owned it from new and it comes with a 3 year warranty. The car itself has suffered from 8 separate breakdowns and failures all with unrelated components in its three years. I would like to say its probably a friday afternoon car but one of the failures was to a part that had recently been replaced which doesn't say much for Saab reliability. Watch out for the EGR valve failures which are recurrent and result in a trip to the dealer and a £350 bill each time.

Also expect to call out the AA at least twice a year and get used to driving the vehicle in limp home mode its an interesting, if not life threatening experience pulling out on a busy roudabout without the Turbo.

I wouldn't buy another Saab from this ecperience irrespective of the inviting styling and performance. I have had more failures and cold roadside phoning than in 20 years motoring.

Good luck if you buy one of these.

My car

I have had my Saab 93 Vector Sport (150) for 2 years after years of wanting to own one now and what a disapointment. Comfortable - very, quick - extremely, handling - excellent. Reliability - rediculous. apart from the many annoying rattles, the rubbery finish on the dash board that comes off as soon as you look at it and the easily sctrached plastic. First breakdown (250 miles from home) swirl actuator switch has packed in at around 70K cost - £1000.00. Todays breakdown, leaving me stranded on the M1 - Partical filter in the exhaust, self cleaning but blocked!!?? cost to fix - £1500.00. What next? Depreciation on these cars is also terrible. Thinking of buying your dream Saab? Stay well clear.