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Saab 9-3 Convertible (2003-2011) review

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Parkers overall rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

At a glance

Price new £25,380 - £36,230
Used prices £342 - £4,019
Road tax cost £190 - £735
Insurance group 25 - 40
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Fuel economy Not tested to latest standards
Range 319 - 689 miles
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Available fuel types

Petrol

Diesel

Alternative fuel

Pros & cons

PROS

Neatly styled, good range of engines, turbocharged performance, comfortable

CONS

Interior lacks quality feel, not as refined as other convertibles, button-heavy dash

Written by Keith Adams Published: 6 June 2019

Overview

Saab has been building convertibles for many years but the concept has remained the same – a four-seat soft-top that can be used all the year round. The 9-3 Convertible is the company’s most desirable model, helped by its neat styling and understated image. While folding hard-tops are becoming more widespread, the Saab’s soft-top still impresses. It’s fast acting, opening or closing in twenty seconds and at speeds of up to 20mph, plus it is highly insulated.

However, the interior is a bit of a let down – there are too many buttons and it lacks the quality feel you’d expect in a premium car. In terms of driving it’s not up to the standards of the best convertibles either. In 2007 it was given a notable facelift which brought a much sharper front end along with a more modern overall appearance.