Saab 9-3 Aero 2.0T Review
Published: 1st March 2005
Saab 9-3
Safety and Security 
- EuroNCAP gives the Saab 9-3 Sport Saloon the highest rating of five stars.
- Saab was the first manufacturer to introduce seatbelts as standard in 1958.
The following safety and security equipment is standard on the Saab 9-3 Aero:
Anti-theft alarm inc. Immobiliser, Bi-xenon headlamps with auto levelling/pressure washers, Cornering Brake Control & ABS (anti-lock braking system), Driver's airbag, EBD Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Front seat side airbags, High level brake light, Passenger's airbag, front, Remote central locking with dead locks, Roof rail airbag, Saab Active Head Restraints, front, Seatbelt pre-tensioners (front seats), Three-point rear seatbelts, all seats and Electronic stability programme (ESP).
Comfort and Refinement
During our time with the Saab 9-3 Aero we were impressed with the level of thought that has gone into the ergonomics of the vehicle. The cabin is spacious with excellent head and leg room in both the front and rear (more rear head & leg room than the Volvo S60). The large flexible interior has ample cabin space for 4/5 people. The doors are large and open to reveal wide access points which make it a very easy car to get in and out of for both front and rear seat occupants making the Saab 9-3 an excellent choice for people with mobility problems even in Aero guise. Saab has joined the Motability scheme, bringing affordable premium segment cars into the scheme for the first time.
For more information about the Saab and Motability [ click here ]
The seating position is excellent with the drivers seat feeling direct and in line with the steering wheel this results in a relaxed neck and back. The body hugging sport seats are supportive and comfortable with excellent under thigh support which is important on longer journeys. Our test car also featured leather seats which are a £750 option. Whilst the seats were undoubtedly excellent they are not quite as good as the Volvo S60 which is class leading.
Our test car was equipped with Convenience Plus Pack (£1200 option) this pack includes dual electric seats, driver's with memory which is particularly useful when two or more drivers use the car. The driver's seat and exterior mirrors adjust automatically according to a personal setting stored in the memory and there is the possibility to store three different settings. One shot comfort closing of the windows, electric folding mirrors, auto dimming interior mirror and rain sensitive windscreen wipers complete this package.
Automatic Climate Control (ACC) is standard on the Aero model which enables you to select different temperature zones for driver and passengers. Saab was one of the first manufacturers to introduce CFC free air conditioning as standard. Cooling of the glove box - for soft drinks, chocolate etc. - is also included. Tinted windows and heat absorbent glass is also standard.
Our test car was equipped with an electrically operated, retractable and tiltable sunroof (£830 option). It can be controlled via remote control enabling you to open it to extract heat before entering the car. It also features one touch opening and closing.
On a practical level the Saab 9-3 Aero incorporates centre console armrest with 12v socket, cigarette lighter, 2 lit vanity mirrors, seat back map pockets, large door bins front and rear, rear armrest with lidded tray, 2 front and 2 rear cupholders.
