2003 Saab 9-3 Convertible 2.0t Vector

Saab recently launched the all-new model of its famous convertible, which was appreciated for its elegance and frugality. This new Swedish soft-top is available in three equipment levels: Linear, Vector and the high-performance Aero. The Linear is the entry-model. The Vector is more sporty and comes with 17" light alloy wheels, bumper & side skirts and a leather interior. Both equipment levels can be combined with the 1.8t engine (150 bhp) or the 2.0t engine (175 bhp). The top of the bill of the 9-3 line is the Aero with 210 horse power and a lowered sport chassis. For this review we've had the opportunity to drive the Saab 9-3 Convertible 2.0t Vector.

The 9-3 with soft-top is really a dream to drive along a sunny beach, down the highway or on a twisting mountain road. The only thing we had to get used to is the large light units on the rear. The 5-spoke 17" light allow wheels are nice, but less aggressive than the ones on the Aero. With the top up, the Saab looks a little pressed from the side, but the 9-3 stays beautiful. The soft-top is fully automatic, the luggage compartment expands automatically when the roof is raised. It only takes 20 seconds, fast enough for a show off at the traffic lights.

We are slightly disappointed by the dashboard, which looks a little bit old-fashioned. The 9-3 Vector is fitted with a 70 watt audio system with four speakers, the radio can be controlled by buttons spread out over the entire upper part of the central console or by the buttons on the steering wheel. But we really would suggest paying an extra €2,200 for the Saab Infotainment Plus, which includes DVD-based GPS navigation and a wide-screen colour display for maps and menu control functions, instead of the standard Saab Audio system.

The rest of the dashboard is very ergonomic and the central-positioned SID (Saab Information Display) gives adequate information about the outside temperature, current radio station, fuel consumption... The only doubts we had were about the handbrake, neatly integrated into the center console, which feels too fragile. The leather seats are very comfortable and are available in anthracite, beige or a combination of both. The car is a real four-seater so there is plenty of room in the back; even with the top closed. The 9-3 Convertible is very well isolated and very few noises gets in the interior while driving... almost like the sedan. Also the inside of the soft top is very nicely finished in the colour of the interior. You almost would forget you're driving the convertible version.

Engine & Performance

Fuel Consumption

Driving

It was only 11 degrees Celsius on the outside, but the sun was shining so we decided to put the top down. The automatic air-condition switched to manual mode and with the hot air blowing from the heating we could enjoy this nice autumn day with our hair in the wind. The only thing that was missing here were heated seats, they cost €370 extra. The roof can open or close while driving at a maximum speed of 30 km/h. You just have to press the button on the center console and hold it till you hear a beep. The roof doesn’t have to be unlocked or secured manually anymore. With speeds up to 100 km/h we could enjoy this topless ride even without the optional windscreen, which encounters wind turbulence in the interior.