Saab 9-3 Vector 1.9 TiDS Steptronic Full Review,Start Up, Engine, and In Depth Tour

With so many entry-level luxury car choices from Germany, Japan and America, it's easy to overlook the Swedish Saab 9-3. But the truth is, the Saab 9-3 could be a great match for buyers looking for a spacious, safe and comfortable automobile with a proven safety record and a distinctly modern attitude.


Today's 9-3 lineup is the latest in Saab's long line of near-luxury cars dating back to the 1970s. Offered in a variety of body styles, with abundant cargo space and frugal yet powerful engines, it has always represented a competitively priced, character-laden alternative to the me-too near-luxury offerings from other manufacturers.


Though the unique and practical 9-3 hatchbacks were discontinued after the 2002 model year, the 9-3 family continues to be offered in multiple body styles: a four-door sedan, two-door convertible and four-door wagon, the latter called "SportCombi." All utilize small-displacement, turbocharged engines that extract big power while salvaging respectable fuel economy. Recent examples have been made available with V6s as a step up from one of Saab's traditionally lively four-cylinders. Furthermore, the Saab 9-3 tends to be priced aggressively, at least in sedan and wagon form. Convertible models have always been a bit less of a bargain.


Among the Saab 9-3's chief shortcomings are its lower performance thresholds and somewhat cut-rate interior in comparison with German and Japanese competitors. Still, it remains a good bet for near-luxury car shoppers seeking something different in a class of look-alikes.


Current Saab 9-3

Today's Saab 9-3 is sold in three body styles: sedan, SportCombi wagon and convertible. Sedan and SportCombi models feel spacious, with low floors, upright windows and seating for five, though three in the rear seat can be tight. Legroom in particular is a sore spot. Convertible models have a rear seat for two adults of small-to-average size. Cargo room in all models is generous.


The 2.0T trim is only available with front-wheel drive and is powered by a turbocharged 210-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. When equipped with front-wheel drive, the Aero trim comes with a turbocharged, 255-hp 2.8-liter V6 mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, and rides on a sport-tuned suspension. The all-wheel-drive Aero XWD gets a higher-boost version of the turbo-4, making 280 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque. We'd suggest driving enthusiasts opt for this choice. Another option is the Turbo X limited edition of the Aero XWD, which features larger wheels, lowered and firmer suspension with self-leveling shock absorbers, larger brakes and sportier trim.Inside, dramatic two-tone color schemes with lots of matte-black finishes create an intense, distinctly Scandinavian ambience. Longstanding Saab-isms remain, including a floor-mounted ignition switch and a "Night Panel" button that darkens all non-essential dashboard lights to reduce eye fatigue. However, the climate and audio controls are now generic, ergonomically friendly GM units.


One of Saab's strongest suits is safety. Thus, the 9-3 offers two-stage side seat-mounted airbags, curtain airbags on sedan and wagon models, whiplash-reducing head restraints, stability control and antilock brakes with Brake Assist.


Editorial reviews have praised the Saab 9-3 as one of the better-handling front-wheel-drive cars on the market, while taking note of its comfortable front seats and cavernous cargo areas, even in the convertible. The Aero in particular, although expensive, has a lightweight, agile feel missing from many of its competitors. Complaints focus on a sometimes harsh ride quality, turbo lag and a sense of quality far short of its German and Japanese competition.Shoppers interested in a used Saab 9-3 should note that the vehicle has changed some since 2003. Originally, the vehicle was available in three trim levels. The base Linear and more luxurious Arc shared a turbocharged 175-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and nearly identical styling. The Vector wore sportier clothes, rode lower and offered a 210-hp version of the same engine, which was also optional on the Arc. The 9-3 Convertible appeared in 2004, followed by the SportCombi wagon in 2006. In 2005, Vector models were renamed Aero.In 2006, the base Linear trim level and its weak motor were dropped, while the Arc was renamed 2.0T and gained the 210-hp engine as standard. The Aero received the 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 that year. All 9-3s got an interior freshening for '07, including less bizarre climate and audio controls. The all-wheel-drive Aero sedan and wagon arrived for 2008, along with the limited "Turbo X" edition.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• Saab
• 9-3
• Vector
• 1.9
• TiDS
• STEPTRONIC
• review
• thomas
• engine
• start
• collection
• reviews
• tank
• dvd
• game
• update
• friends
• new
• gas
• nickelback
• product
• ice
• cold
• cream
• zealand
• review part
• ice cream
• new zealand
• trey
• rugby
• auckland
• motorcycle
• dry
• wellington
• kiwi
• trey songz
• high speed
• repair

[soccerfreek7777]

vector all the way. Love this car.