Saab, which has acquired a reputation as the builder of sporty, but
idiosyncratic cars, is moving more to the mainstream while simultaneously
trying to enhance its sporting image. The new 9-3 is available in three
versions, the Linear, Arc, and Vector, and is positioned to challenge the
Audi A4, BMW 3-Series and Volvo S60.

A brief survey of model highlights includes major changes to chassis, engine
choices and transmissions. The new 9-3 sedan is slightly larger and more
luxurious than the model it replaces. But Saab fans please note, it is
available as a sedan, not the traditional hatchback that has defined the
brand for decades. It seems that Saab considers the traditional sedan to be
a more upscale alternative than the hatchback.

The Saab 9-3 features a new turbocharged all-aluminum engine available in
two levels of tune. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual or a
five-speed automatic.  Saab has placed a high priority on vehicle dynamics
and the new model incorporates a revised rear suspension featuring ³passive
rear-wheel steering,² which was designed to improve handling and stability.
Side-curtain airbags and the anti-whiplash seats further enhance safety as
standard equipment on all models.

Our test vehicle was the top 9-3 Vector, an interesting choice of names
since most people who even are familiar with the term probably associate it
with its use in public health with the spread of a disease or pests. Here's
how we see the new Saab 9-3.

Value: Our test 9-3 Vector is not only top of the line, but also includes a
host of options that bring its price up to nearly $38,000 which is right up
there with its prestigious German competitors. To the base price of $32,500,
our test car added the $1,300 automatic transmission, $1,200 Touring
Package, $1,100 sunroof and heated seats and metallic paint for another
grand. The Touring Package includes rain-sensing variable-speed windshield
wipers, parking assist (a radar-like device to detect objects at the rear),
xenon headlights and in-dash CD changer.

I find the Saab's value story somewhat weak. Not only does the price equal
its prestigious German competitors, but also the Saab 9-3 may be vulnerable
to aggressively priced competitors coming from the ranks of such popularly
priced sedans as the all-new Honda Accord and Mazda 6. These two offer most
of the luxury features of the 9-3 and deliver more powerful V-6 engines at a
price around $30,000.

Engine and key mechanical components: The 9-3 boasts an all-new turbocharged
four-cylinder engine. But at this point in the evolution of the luxury
market, and Saab claims to be in that league, I question the deployment of a
four-cylinder engine, turbocharged or otherwise. For a car in the sports
sedan segment, acceleration is not thrilling and the engine has other
problems that are inherent in its architecture.

Four-cylinder engines are inherently susceptible to noise and vibrations.
Saab has taken extraordinary measures to smooth out the engine, but when
pulling up a mild grade in fifth gear, there¹s a low grumbling noise from
the engine, something you will never encounter in a contemporary
six-cylinder power plant. On the plus side, the new larger brakes work
superbly, which is important in a sports sedan and I have no beef with the
overall operation of the computer-controlled automatic transmission.

Handling: Saab is claiming best-in-class handling and that is a bold claim
given its competition from Audi and BMW.  While the Saab 9-3 sticks to the
road, feedback through the suspension and steering mechanisms does not quite
reach the level experienced in the BMW 3-Series.

Safety: Saab sets a high standard for safety, just like Volvo, the other
Swedish manufacturer. In addition to creating a crashworthy body, safety
advances include dual-stage side-impact air bags with integral head
protection. Saab hopes to virtually eliminate whiplash injuries with the
second generation of an ingenious seat that projects the head restraints
forward and upward for the driver and front passenger in the event of an
impact to the vehicle's rear end.
 
 

 
Vehicle: Saab 9-3 Vector Sport Sedan

Price as tested: $37,685

Engine:

         Type: Turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four

         Horsepower: 210 @ 5,500 rpm

         Torque: 221-ft. lbs. 2,300 rpm

Fuel economy, automatic transmission

         City - 21 mpg

         Highway - 30 mpg

Curb Weight: 3,285 lbs.