Car Reviews: 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible

Architects and Dentists Rejoice

The new Saab 9-3 was updated for 2008 and launched at the Isaac Agnew dealership in September 2007. Face-lifted and refined the 9-3, lready a handsome and unique looking car has been further improved. The Scandinavian luxury car manufacturer is already renowned for producing incredibly well made and stylish cars; so big things were expected when the revision of the 9-3 was announced.

The tested car was the 1.9 TtiD Aero variant, striking in metallic black and upholstered with high quality cream leather upholstery. This is a high-output 180 BHP 5-seat convertible, based on the 9-3 saloon. The electrically folded soft-top retracts in around twenty seconds - among the quickest on the market.

Once behind the wheel, the first thing that struck me about this car was the build quality and solidity'. All of the materials in the cabin were of a very high standard. Bearing in mind that your car is an important acquisition and usually the second most important item that you will buy (besides your house), combined with the fact that you may have to spend long periods of time in your car, the quality of the cabin should be an important factor. Surfaces that are pleasing to most of the senses should be high on your list of priorities and the 9-3 combines these perfectly. All the control surfaces are neatly arranged fall easily to hand and feel sturdy and solid. The seats are relaxing and comfortable and the cabin is generally light, airy and pleasant. Road noise and ride comfort are good, despite the soft top, which on some other cars produces wind resistance and generates an irritating noise. The up-rated suspension is firm but comfortable, not sloppy but not backbreaking either.