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2001 Saab 9-3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$27,070 to $45,570

Original MSRP

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expert review

4.4

avg user rating

(20 reviews)
2001 Saab 9-3 Preview summaryImage

The Saab 9-3 returns for 2001 with three body styles, but the Base Convertible has been dropped from the lineup. OnStar and traction control are now standard on all 9-3 models. A few new color options debut this year, and the sedans get new 15-inch alloy wheels.

All 9-3 variants are equipped with the basics: power windows, power locks, air conditioning and cruise control. The Convertible is available in SE and Viggen trims, while the Coupe is offered in Base and Viggen styles. The five-door sedans comes in all three levels: Base, SE, and Viggen.

All 9-3 engines are variations of a turbocharged inline four cylinder. The Base level 9-3s, regardless of body style, are powered by a 2.0 liter version, which generates 185 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, while a four-speed automatic is optional. The SE models also house the 2.0 liter mill, but the turbo is boosted here for 205 horsepower and 209 pound-feet of torque. The transmissions options are the same. The powerful Viggen is set apart by its 2.3 liter turbocharged four, which churns out 230 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Only a five-speed manual transmission is offered.

Owners of the SE and Viggen models have expressed satisfaction with the strong turbo acceleration, but expert reviewers warn of severe torque steer, which hampers the overall feeling of control. Many owners admit to buying the 9-3 for its unique styling, but a considerable number of those owners express disappointment with the car's reliability. Many report small but nagging problems, which are then complicated by expensive service and scarcity of parts.

Favorite features include OnStar, traction control, heated seats, and the interior flexibility of the five-door hatchback. The dash-mounted cup holders have been widely panned, or at least by those who dislike coffee all over their dashboard.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
Sometimes our content pages are the result of a team effort. As with all CarGurus editorial, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 2001 Saab 9-3

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User rating:
by George F
Sep 16, 2024
This review is for the 2001 Viggen Convertible. This car is very stylish for the early 2000s and was a fair attempt by Saab to make a competitor to the M3 and S4. Unfortunately the performance aspect of this car is hindered by its front wheel drive set up and suspension configuration. The punchy acceleration is great but the torque steer in the lower gears is a hinderance. The seats are comfortable but are very commonly worn at this point. The convertible tops are prone to water leaks and issues with the hydraulic system at this age. My recommendation would be to get a hatchback version of this car. Most of them will need restored at this point and watch out for rust holes in the floors. Overall I would recommend for a Saab enthusiasts collection but not as a budget track car. Sep 16, 2024
by Anonymous
Nov 16, 2014
Great family car that's fun to drive, haven't had any problems other than normal wear and tear on a car of this age and mileage, still going strong. Maintenance costs seem about right for a European car of this caliber, not as high as most othersNov 16, 2014
by Nathaniel M
Mar 28, 2012
Performance This car has a nice little turbo, that gives that extra punch when needed. The second gear acceleration will throw you back in your seat. Build Quality The Swedes at Saab really payed attention to detail with the interior, lots of satisfying creature comforts even for the passengers in the back. Appearance I'm biased cause it's my car but despite being 11 years old this car still looks like to could have come off the lot last year, the styling is new and current, even today. Cost of Ownership The 4 cylinder turbo puts out 185 hp while still getting 8-9L/100km very good on gas. Though with the current situation with Saab parts are a pain to get, not that you need them that often. Fun Factor The turbo, makes this little thing a hoot to drive.Mar 28, 2012

2001 Saab 9-3 Pricing

Original MSRP
$27,070 to $45,570
Price range
N/A
Average price on CG
N/A
YoY price change
N/A
Saab 9-3 price trends

Trims & specs

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Convertible roof: power

Seats

Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags · Front side airbags

Audio System

AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Rear Seats

Type: split-bench

Roof

Convertible roof: power

Seats

Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Telematics

Satellite communications: OnStar

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

See all trims (7)

Other years

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