2008 Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible Reviewed by Susan Frissell
	The all-new Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible is much refined from previous generations. This is a nice riding vehicle, with an all new redesigned exterior, including a few borrowed cues from the Aero X concept show vehicle. The 2008 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has chosen the 9-3 as one of its Top Safety Picks for the second year in a row. The redesigned Saab 9-3 went on sale this September and competitors include the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series and Volvo C70. The options on our Artic White 9-3 Convertible included the Cold Weather Package (heated front seats, high-pressure headlamp washer, $550; the Touring Package (memory driver's seat, auto dimming ISRV mirror with compass, universal home remote, rear park assist, $895; Automatic transmission, $1,350; and Sand color convertible top, $600. The 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible is available in two trim levels: the 2.0T (starting at $41,380) and theAero ($50,385). The 2.0T engine puts out 210 horsepower and is a 2.0L I4 is a high output turbo. The Aero version is equipped with a 2.8-Liter v6 high output turbo. Four transmissions are available: 6-speed manual as standard and 5-speed Sentronic automatic (optional) on the 2.0T, and 6 speed Automatic or 6-speed manual (optional) on the Aero. Fuel economy is better with the 2.0T (18/27) Our Aero version includes a trunk spoiler, Sport chassis, two-tone sport seats, Rear Parking Assist, front fog lamps, six-disc CD Changer, twin bright-finish exhaust tailpipes and auto-dimming mirror with digital compass and garage door opener, among other amenities. Metallic interior trim adds to the Aero's sporty look and feel, and the power front seats with memory for seats and mirrors are form fitting and comfortable for all body types. The parking assist is much needed in the Aero convertible due to the blind spots inherent in many convertibles. The A-pillar makes seeing much to the front and right of the driver a near impossibility and looking back, the slant of the roofline and convertible top make it tough to see what's coming from behind. We found driving on the expressway was somewhat unnerving with the Saab's blindspots and small mirrors; although the side mirrors are ≥wide angle≤ on the passenger side. After driving so many vehicles today with oversize mirrors, it takes some getting used to going back to small side mirrors. The 9-3's dash and IP are easy to read and controls easily operated. The sound system, a 300-watt AM/FM/Satellite radio with 6-CD changer is more than adequate and quite good. Operating the system was easier than some. OnStar is one of the many safety features offered on Saab's 9-3, along with the usual anti-theft alarm with remote, daytime running lights (with Xenon cornering lamps and auto shutoff), ABS, Electronic Stability control Program, Active head restraints, front seat head and torso airbags, and driver& front passenger front airbag. Saab's info display is handy and keeps the driver up-to-date on all fluid levels. The Saab 9-3 Convertible has a fairly smooth, quiet ride, although there is still a considerable amount of wind noise at high speeds. Cornering is nimble, but acceleration not as quick or responsible as expected in a vehicle equipped with turbo. We didn't sense any turbo lag, but the pickup wasn't exhilarating. We also detected, at only 2000 miles, a creaking noise coming from the rear of the car?? Otherwise, fit and finish appears good. Doors are easy to open and close, in spite of their size. Coupe doors are notoriously heavy, but the 9-3's are light. Entry and egress from the rear seats isn't horrible, but not the most comfortable for long-legged passengers. The seats, however, are generous and the ride back there, not uncomfortable.
SPECS MSRP: $45,640; total vehicle price $49,780; destination $745 Engine; 2.8-liter 6 cylinder, 24 valve DOHC Turbo, 255 hp. Transmission: Automatic; 6-speed manual standard Wheelbase: 105.3 in. Width: 70.1 in. Height: 56.3 in. Length: 182.9 in. Weight: 3810 lbs. (Aero) Fuel Economy: 18/27 (man), 18/24 (auto) on 2.0T; 16/26 (man.), 15/24 (auto) on Aero Tires: 17-inch all-season Wheels: 17-inch alloy Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.EPA Fuel Economy: 15/24 mpg. Warranty: no charge scheduled maintenance 3 yrs/36,000-miles; 5 yr./100,000 mile powertrain limited, 4 yr/new vehicle/50,000-mile limited. Location of Assembly: Graz, Austria