Saab 9-3 Sportwagon (2005-2011) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3 out of 53.0

Written by Dan Harrison Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 24 - 62 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

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Priced to undercut premium rivals from Audi and BMW, but other cars with ‘quality’ badges could pose a more significant threat, such as Honda and Volkswagen. It will not hold its value any better than a Passat or Accord, although servicing charges will be more in line with volume manufacturers than premium brands. If Saab 9-3 Sportwagon 9-3 Sportwagon running costs are a concern steer clear of the 2.8-litre turbo V6 that is very thirsty.

The 9-3 performs reasonably on the eco front but there are no specific low emissions models available. Saab 9-3 Sportwagon emissions are the best in the 1.9-litre diesel – in 2009 it was tweaked and as a result emissions are 144g/km of CO2 for both the 150bhp and 180bhp (badged 1.9 TTiD) models while economy is 51mpg for both.

Saabs tend to be very dependable so Saab 9-3 Sportwagon reliability should not be in question. The only question marks would be over the cheaper-feeling pieces of interior trim and whether they would stand up as well as the rest of the car to general wear and tear.