2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible Review
Price
RM326,804
Installment
RM3,117/mth
2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible at a glance
Convertibles are supposed to be highly desirable, and while the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible has unique looks, a strong engine and room for four, it is far less desirable and capable compared with rivals from Germany.
2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible quick specs
| Body Style | Convertible |
| Class | Compact Luxury |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible ratings (overall rating : 3/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Featuring traditional Saab styling cues, most apparent from the front grille, the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible looks handsome on the outside. But positioned as an upmarket compact convertible against established rivals from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible simply lacks the premium presence rivals have. And the dated interior styling does little to boost the intended premium aspirations.
Handling
Sharing the capable chassis with the Saab 9-3 Sedan but with additional reinforcement, the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible handles decently. Despite being composed for the most parts, the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible is short on the fun factor. Its body control and grip levels are no more than mediocre under comparison, and the vague steering dulls the handling further. Premium German rivals are too far ahead in terms of driving dynamics.
Comfort
Like for the Saab 9-3 Sedan, the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible's suspension jolts over sharper bumps and bigger potholes, and the ride feels fidgety over rough, patchy urban roads. With the roof up, some wind noise is noticeable but not excessive at higher speeds. Wind buffeting is not a problem with the roof down. In typical Saab fashion, all controls are clear to see, and easy to use. Drivers enjoy an excellent driving position, which can be further fine-tuned with plenty of seating and steering column adjustments. The seats are comfy and supportive over longer journeys.
Quality + Reliability
Seen in isolation and without comparison to premium German rivals, the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible's cabin is solid enough, using fine materials, put together with good fit-and-finish. But against the classy cabins from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, the Saab's cabin is clearly off the pace. The dated interior styling does little to improve the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible's appeal. Saab models including the 9-3 have been known to be reliable, and should face little problems in the longer term.
Performance
Only one turbo-charged 2.0-litre engine, paired to a five-speed automatic gearbox, drives the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible. Producing 173 bhp and 265 Nm, the engine provides plenty of punch whether for city start-stop driving, overtaking or highway cruising.
Roominess
The 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible makes a convincing four-seater, providing the front two with loads of room and the rear two with adequate room for comfort. Access to the rear is easy too, unlike many other convertibles. Boot space is decent, but is compromised when the soft-top is folded and stored.
Running Costs
The 2.0-litre returns 10.3 km/litre. Servicing and repairs are expensive, and parts are relatively hard to find. The 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible's depreciation is the greatest concern, as the Saab brand commands much less desirability compared with premium brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
Value for Money
The 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible is less expensive than premium German rivals. To be sure, the Saab 9-3 Convertible is a fine car when seen in isolation: it is unique-looking, strong performing on the roads, reasonably spacious and very rare. But having the talented, prestigious duo of the BMW 3-Series Convertible and Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class as rivals, which happen to outperform the Saab in almost every area of consideration, the 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible is unlikely to be on the top of the list for many.
Equipment
All 2010 Saab 9-3 Convertible variants are well-stocked in terms of standard equipment and safety kit to match premium rivals'. Saab has decided not to entice buyers with more equipment but this is one area that they can and should try to outshine fellow competitors.
Environment
Carbon dioxide emissions of 232 grams/km and fuel economy of 10.3 km/litre are figures some way off the standards set by the BMW 3-Series Convertible and Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Unique-looking
Strong engine performance
Room for four
Not fun to drive
Poor ride quality
Expensive for what it offers
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