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| Description |
In putting together this review regarding the Saab 9-3 SportCombi, the experts at TheCarConnection.com looked to some of the Web’s most respected review sources. To help make this information especially useful, TheCarConnection.com’s editors have incorporated their own experience driving the 9-3.
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| Road Test |
With the discontinuation of the 9-2X, the 2008 Saab 9-3 becomes once again the smallest model in Saab’s lineup; actually a roomy model that borders on mid-size, the 9-3 comes in sedan and versatile SportCombi (wagon) body styles as well as a Convertible. The sedan and convertible are covered under separate reviews.
The 2008 Saab 9-3 comes in two main models: base and Aero. A 210-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine powers the base model, while the high-performance Aero model gets a 255-horsepower, 2.8-liter turbocharged V-6 engine. Both 9-3 models come with a six-speed manual transmission, with an automatic transmission optional on each: five-speed for the base, six-speed for the Aero. At the top of the range is the Turbo X model, a limited-edition model for 2008 that brings a brawnier 280-horsepower version of the turbo V-6 and an all-wheel-drive system.
read the full bottom line review |
| Positive Points |
- -Unique interior styling
- -Loads of flexible cargo space
- -Base turbo engine is powerful and fuel-efficient
- -Quick, crisp steering and great handling
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| Negative Points |
- -Some switchgear is recognizable from lesser GM cars
- -Very firm ride in Aero and Turbo X
- -Priced against top-tier luxury competitors
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