Saab 9-3 reviews

2003 Saab 9-3 Interior Features

Okay, the most important thing about a Saab is the location of the ignition key. Saab fans need not worry as it's still located down on the center console behind the gearshift. Those who have not experienced this unique placement of the ignition key don't know what they are missing. It is really sensible as it avoids the dangling mass of keys so many of us have on our key chains. It's also safer as it prevents the possibility of getting keys jammed in ones knees in a severe accident.

Beyond that the Saab 9-3's interior is pretty much what one would expect in a near-luxury sedan, although certain other Saab styling cues remain. The instruments are laid out in an easy-to-view layout with a big speedometer in a sweeping instrument panel that blends into the center console. It's still a relatively high dashboard compared to that in other cars but it's long been a signature styling cue of Saab cars so it's nice to see it retained. The buttons and switches are smaller than in many cars. Nonetheless they are all well placed for the driver to reach while driving.

An extra set of warning gauges is mounted on top of the dashboard in the center in a small pod, locating them more in the driver's line of sight. Radio settings and navigational directions when installed are displayed here.

The glovebox is one of the largest we have seen in a long time.

At first blush it's easy to miss the parking brake. It's located on the center console but it has a unique curved shape that matches the grab handle on the passenger side so that it looks as though it is a sculptured design feature rather than a brake handle. Once you know it's there it operates just like any other hand parking brake. The matching handle on the passenger side can be converted into an optional CD holder, which is a clever piece of design.

The front seats are fairly supportive in the Linear model but are not nearly as good as those found in the more sporty Vector model.

Rear-seat passengers get generous head- and legroom considering the size of the car. A center console can be folded down between the rear seats that contains cupholders and a map storage area.

As with previous Saab models the trunk is large for its size and is very useable. Surprisingly the trunk has gooseneck hinges that take up space but at least they are hidden in a cover so they do not crush luggage when the trunk lid is closed. A small pass-through opening to the trunk is provided for carrying skis and other long items. The 60/40 split rear seats can be folded to give greater storage through from the trunk.

Overall quality of the interior appears to be very good. Subtle use of wood trim and a matt-black finish on dash surfaces gives it a pleasant appearance.

Side airbags come standard on all 9-3 models along with Saab's Active Head Restraint system that automatically cradles the head in an accident to help prevent whiplash. Active safety is helped by ABS (anti-lock brakes), electronic traction control (TCS) and an electronic stability program (ESP), all designed to help the driver maintain control.