Saab 9-3 Sportwagon (2005 - 2011) 2.8T Aero 5d Auto (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I think any car £33k brand new says reasonably sucessful. In the case of the Saab it says it without being too flash or too boring.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Most people like it. I had a buget of £35k. I think more people would have been more impressed if I had bought a Merc' CLK or E class saloon or a BMW 5 series saloon. But the Sportwagon suits my lifestyle and it was offered to me so cheap I felt that I could not say no.

Would you buy this car again and why?

If I choose a compact executive estate again then maybe. I think it is one of the best available.

What are you likely to buy next?

If I want a compac' estate then the SAAB or BMW 3 series. If I go for a bigger saloon then the Jag XF or BMW 5 Series.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£17,000

When did you buy the car?

June 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

This was a pre-registered car with 5 miles on the clock and nearly every optional extra available. It was 11 months old and I got about half price (£17k). I wanted the manual but as it was so cheap I compromised and took the auto gearbox.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Value for money

What was the dealer like?

I thought the SAAB dealer was a lot better than the BMW dealer I contacted who was quite disinterested. I had decided to buy a 3 series until the SAAB dealer offered me the Sportwagon so cheap.

What's it like to drive?

very good, loads better than the old model 9.3 hatchback. It is more postive and no twitching of the front wheels when you put your foot down.

What's it like to park?

Fine. The rear parking aid really helps

Have you had any problems with the car?

No problems whatsoever with the SAAB. The rain sensitive wipers are a bit hit and miss. I regret fitting an RAC trackstar system onto the car independantly as I have had loads of problems with the safespeed, speed camera detector and it has been back in 6 times

What's most practical about your car?

The estate is very flexible and with the optional dog guard and boot rubber mats it is great for my boxer dog. I also like the roof bars which allows you to fit the Saab roof rails in a couple of minutes

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

voice operated telephone; which is good fun