2002 Saab 9-3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Saab's 9-3 returns for a fourth year of production, with minimal changes and an abbreviated model lineup. Buyers may still choose from a...
Saab's 9-3 returns for a fourth year of production, with minimal changes and an abbreviated model lineup. Buyers may still choose from a trio of 9-3 body styles (Coupe, Sedan, Convertible) but the base trim level is no longer available. Saab now touts the SE as value-priced, in an attempt to still offer prospective buyers a relatively affordable route to 9-3 ownership. The only other notable change is a new carbon-fiber instrument panel in the Viggen models.
For 2002, the 9-3 model lineup has been slimmed from seven to five variants. The two trims, SE and Viggen, are applicable to the Sedan and Convertible. The Coupe is now only offered in the Viggen trim. The features and options rosters are unaltered for this year.
The power plant options are the same, but the 185 horsepower engine has been dropped. The SE is powered by a turbocharged 2.0 liter inline four, which delivers 205 horsepower and 209 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is paired with this engine, but a four-speed automatic is also optional. The Viggen houses a 2.3 liter turbocharged inline four, good for 230 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, mated to a five-speed manual transmission only. Fuel economy is estimated at 23/33 mpg for the manual SE, and 19/28 mpg for the Viggen.
Reviews for the 2002 9-3 are a mixed bag, as some owners report virtually no issues while others strongly caution against the frequency and high cost of repairs. In various consumer reviews, the 9-3 earns high marks for performance, driving experience and design. Favorite features include the fuel efficient yet powerful turbocharged engine, the safety of traction control, the convenience of OnStar, and the spaciousness of the hatchback. The ill-conceived dash-mounted cup holders continue to be a big negative.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2002 Saab 9-3 appreciate its power, handling, and fuel economy, especially the performance in Sport mode. Many find it fun to drive and comfortable, making it a solid choice for daily commutes. However, some drivers express concerns about blind spots, trunk space, and the cost and availability of repairs. While most are happy with its reliability and performance, a few mention issues like torque steer and limited low-end power."
The engine is terrific and I just love the way this car handles. It is fast and has great pick up when I need it. The Sport mode is an added plus. Also, my model does excellent on fuel. On the open road I sometimes can get 29 mpg. In every day travel, around 26.5 mpg. It actually runs best on Sheetz fuel - it really does.
July 4, 2014Owned from 2005 until 2012. Modified by MapTun to give 270bhp/370Nm Very fast in the mid range! Comfortable and pretty reliable. Fat rear anti-roll bar fitted which improved handling and reduced torque steer. Sold to a friend who still has it and likes it. A genuine four seat rag top with enough luggage space for a weeks holiday
March 16, 2008Dislike-Rear twist beam suspension Like- Power and weight One of the best cars out there, station wagon cargo area and a sport hatch to hide it. Saab needs to bring back the 9-3 hatch, it's perfect if you don't want a wagon but want the cargo room. Once the Konis were installed the car became a totally different creature. This car will surprise you.
November 28, 2008What owners say
The engine is terrific and I just love the way this car handles. It is fast and has great pick up when I need it. The Sport mode is an added plus. Also, my model does excellent on fuel. On the open road I sometimes can get 29 mpg. In every day travel, around 26.5 mpg. It actually runs best on Sheetz fuel - it really does.
July 4, 2014Owned from 2005 until 2012. Modified by MapTun to give 270bhp/370Nm Very fast in the mid range! Comfortable and pretty reliable. Fat rear anti-roll bar fitted which improved handling and reduced torque steer. Sold to a friend who still has it and likes it. A genuine four seat rag top with enough luggage space for a weeks holiday
March 16, 2008Dislike-Rear twist beam suspension Like- Power and weight One of the best cars out there, station wagon cargo area and a sport hatch to hide it. Saab needs to bring back the 9-3 hatch, it's perfect if you don't want a wagon but want the cargo room. Once the Konis were installed the car became a totally different creature. This car will surprise you.
November 28, 2008Love the look, style, and handling, not crazy about the blind spots and cost to repair. Hard to find parts and or accessories. Great on gas. Not much room in the trunk but that is because it is a convertible which makes it worth it.
December 8, 2013Sure it has some torque steer issues but that's because of the power to weight ratio. Very comfortable and fun to drive. Basically I see newer and more expensive cars on the road on my 64 miles/day commute but when I'm in my Viggen I don't covet any of them.
February 26, 2013lag, lag, rocket ship - no low end, great once on boost some rattles, bit ugly, crap mpg, but great in winter with heated seats that will burn you flesh off, doesn't go round corners fast in a straight line, not a fun car but reliable and solid
January 18, 2009Handles good. Awesome acceleration in Sport mode. Looks arent the greatest, but it works.
June 21, 2008Saab 9-3 good car for someone who needs abit of cargo space and wants some fuel mileage from the 2.0 L turbo. Hatch back with fold down rear seats make this car a great carrier for goods and still allows the car to perform with ease as the turbo engine pulls well from all speeds
February 1, 2015Trims & specs
Base MSRP $45,620 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.3L 230 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $40,620 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.0L 205 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 12.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $28,620 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 205 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 21.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $38,720 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 230 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 21.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $38,720 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 230 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 21.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain FWD |
