Saab 9-3 2002–2011 car dimensions: 4635 mm long, 1762 mm wide and 1434 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,655 kg. Braked towing is 1,600 kg.
Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard and adapts for open-top driving with manual heat settings when the roof is down. Cruise control comes as standard. Rear parking sensors appear on Aero grades and become more widely available later in the generation. Optional navigation systems include a colour screen. Heated front seats and a wind deflector help extend open-air use. The cabin feels solid with good front support and noise insulation when the triple-layer soft-top is raised.
Boot space measures 352 litres with the roof raised and drops to 235 litres with it lowered. The CargoSet system automatically expands the load area when the top is up. A lockable pass-through to the cabin is available.
Braked towing capacity reaches 1600 kg with unbraked at 750 kg. Payload sits near 490 kg depending on specification. Sports chassis is fitted on Aero models for firmer response. The convertible suits light towing and everyday loads rather than heavy work.
The cabin has a fixed-head feel with the roof up due to light-colored headlining that fits seamlessly. Front seats are deeply bolstered for lateral and under-thigh support and feature integrated seat belts. Dual-zone automatic climate control adapts to open-top mode with multiple heat settings. Eight-way power front seats with driver memory are available on higher grades. Heated front seats are offered to extend open-air use.
Fuel tank capacity of 16 gallons.
Service interval of 30,000 km or 2 years.
Euro NCAP 5-star adult occupant rating.
Standard ABS, ESP, TCS, dual front airbags, front side airbags, SAHR active head restraints and Dynacage pop-up roll bars.
Turbocharged petrol engines range from 150 bhp to 250 bhp with diesel options available later in the generation. Fuel consumption figures are listed for city, highway and combined cycles by engine and transmission.
Servicing follows an intermediate oil and filter change schedule with main services at double the interval. Oil condition is monitored by sensors.
The car earned a five-star Euro NCAP rating for adult protection. Reinforced A-pillars, side sills and a box structure behind the rear seat work with pop-up roll bars and pretensioners.
Self-repairing bumpers and crash boxes protect bodywork in impacts up to 15 kph. The triple-layer soft top with heated glass rear window offers strong insulation.
Length 4635 mm, Width 1762 mm, Height 1434 mm, Wheelbase 2675 mm (9-3 2002–2011)
Sources: manufacturer data, encyCARpedia and AutoScout24, car-specs.za, Saab 2008 Convertible brochure.