2011 Saab 9-3
The 2011 Saab 9-3 ranks 11 out of 11 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 88 published reviews and test drives of the Saab 9-3, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. 
The automotive industry thinks that if you’re considering the 2011 Saab 9-3, you should cross it off your list. The 9-3 is a good car, but with decent performance, a dated interior and a high base price, the competition gives you more bang for your buck.
Shoppers in the market for a Saab expect refined performance and an upscale European interior, but the automotive industry says shoppers looking for those things in the Saab 9-3 will be disappointed. The 9-3 is a dated European sedan. It has decent performance, but its lackluster interior is in serious need of an upgrade."The 9-3 has plenty in its favor: quirky styling, an intelligently designed interior, a fine optional all-wheel-drive system, and a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine,” writes Car and Driver. “But it’s starting to feel old, and it is significantly outgunned by rivals from Japan, Germany, and (with Cadillac) the U.S.”
If you look at the Saab 9-3’s specifications you’ll understand why the 9-3 has taken a backseat. Let’s start with its power plant: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine. Standing alone, this 2.0-liter will satisfy most drivers, but those looking for a six-cylinder engine will have to turn to the BMW 1-Series. And even if the BMW 1-Series’ nearly $31,000 base price is too high, there are plenty of four-cylinders on the market that have comparable performance. The Volkswagen GTI is one, and it starts at about $24,000.
Then there are the interior features. For a car that starts around $30,300 for the sedan, the 9-3 doesn’t come standard with Bluetooth, XM Satellite Radio and iPod integration – items that are considered basics at this price point. And while the 9-3 does have standard leather seats and a power adjustable driver’s seats, reviewers still aren’t impressed with the cabin’s quality. It’s only so-so for a European car.
Combined, the 9-3’s high price, acceptable performance and forgettable interior mean that shoppers need to start checking out the competition. There are plenty of great options on the market that are affordable and excel where the 2011 Saab 9-3 doesn’t.
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