Saab 9-3 Aero 2.0T Review
Published: 1st March 2005
Saab 9-3
How It Looks - Exterior
The Saab 9-3 Aero is a truly beautiful piece of design and unlike some performance saloons it is the epitome of understated classic elegance.
The coupe-like silhouette incorporates a steeply raked windscreen and rear window and short front and rear overhangs, communicating a strong, sporty stance and a dynamic and well-balanced look.
The shape of the windows, wedge-like profile and integrated headlights & grille give the car its distinctive Saab identity.
The Aero model features lowered sports chassis, unique 17" Aero wheels, integrated foglights, dual sports exhaust, boot spoiler and side skirts.
How It Looks - Interior
The interior styling of the Saab 9-3 Aero is classic Scandinavian design at its best.
The cabin exudes a high level of build quality and our test car featured optional leather sports seats and standard leather gear lever gaiter, leather trimmed sports steering wheel with extra-thick leather-trimmed rim and metal-finish inserts. The switchgear is sturdy yet elegant and the Aero model features brushed metal-finish door handles, door inserts, gear lever surround, dials and instrument bezel for a crisp modern look.
In Car Entertainment and Satellite Navigation
Our test car featured the Saab Infotainment system upgrade (ES3-7), audio system, Satellite Navigation,telephone key pad and colour display screen, 7 speakers (£1750 option).
This system Includes DVD-based GPS navigation and a wide-screen colour display for maps and menu control functions. It can be extended with Advanced Voice Recognition (AVR), integrated telephone and in-dash CD changer.
The ES3-7 Sound System has a total amplifier output of 150 W amplifier and seven loudspeakers, including a special front centre speaker that improves the sound distribution. This system was superb and the sound quality is excellent.
Rivals
- Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Jaguar X Type, Lexus IS200, Mercedes C-Class & Volvo S60
What We Liked
- Exterior and Interior styling
- Image
- Seats
- Safety
- Performance
What We Disliked
- Nothing to dislike
What We'd Like To See
- A sub 6 second 0-60 mph model to compete with the Audi RS4, BMW M3 & Volvo S60R
