The new design of the Saab 9-3 model is clearly influenced by the concept car Saab Aero-X. The superb 9-3 design, inspired by jet planes, forms an aggressive front with new headlights, a larger radiator grille deeply embedded in the front bumper, and excellent Scandinavian-style “frosted” taillights. As a result, the car looks really great. Although the car's design is exceptional and the interior is comfortable, the 9-3 has areas to look at compared to its German competitors: the car's suspension and handling. However, the model with the XWD all-wheel drive system and the most powerful 2.8-liter V6 turbo engine with 280 hp (210 kW) is the perfect combination to partially overcome control shortcomings and turn the car into a true roadblock.
I’ve been operating this car for more than a year and in general it leaves me a very good impression. It’s very convenient both in the city and on the highway since it has 6-speed automatic transmission allowing to make shifts up and down by moving the lever to the plus (+) or minus (-) positions. Fuel consumption in the city 42 mpg, meanwhile on the highway at 80 mph it takes 55 mpg. I really enjoy a smooth ride with it, the stiff chassis reminds me of having a partially sports car. SAAB could be described as a dashing vehicle. I always have a need for speed. Under the emergency situation, trust me, it won’t let you down. In winter its cross-country ability is very good, stability control really helps while traveling on slippery surfaces. Sharp frost has no effect on it – I can easily start the engine. Having 10 airbags makes this vehicle safe. Great performance at the “Euro NCAP” only proves that. Another good thing - for a decent price you can buy one of the mostly equipped SAAB. As for the recaro interior, I can say the seats are indeed very comfortable in every maneuvre. Sound isolation also satisfying, no doubt original sound system will catch your ear. I have no complaints since no annoying noise is audible inside the car. No matter how hard I’d try, I have come to conclusion that this vehicle has no defects.
Performance
After chip tuning, the overall parameters have increased: it became more economical and powerful. Due to different technical condition of the engine, minor differences in car performance are possible though. Such type of engines is used for other brands too: Alfa, Vauxhall, Fiat. So you won’t need to worry about extra parts or their prices.
Reliability, running costs
Since I bought this car from a dealer, I had to a full car service.
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