Vehicle: 2004 Saab 9-3 2.0T Aero convertible with 5-speed Sentronic
Price as tested: CDN$62150

Performance: The Saab convertible is powered by Saab’s proven 2L high-pressure turbocharged engine with 210hp and 221 lb/ft of torque. The power delivery is smooth, refine, flexible and completely lack of turbo lag. When the turbo spools up at around 2500 rpm, the acceleration feels like a rocket with the assistance of Saab’s famous Tronic engine managment system. The 5-speed Sentronic manumatic is an excellent tranny as it provides decent ratios, while it up and downshifts are responsive and appropriate.

Handling: While previous Saab convertibles are known for cowl shakes, the new 9-3 is a revelation for chassis stiffness. It feels as solid as anything else in its class when going through bumps, washboard pavements and expansion joints. With Aero’s sports suspension, it also handles exceptionally well. The steering is sharp and precise. There is a slight amount of body rolls and understeers when pushed. On the other hand, it also rides comfortably thanks to smart use of rebound damping.

Brakes: Saab’s usual high standard on braking performance remains intact in the convertible, as it provides top-notch pedal feel and responsivenss when bite hard.

Interior: The color-keyed door panels are tasteful addition to 9-3’s usual high-quality interior. It adds a bit of color to the sober black-on-black interior. As usual, you got all the features you expect from a Saab. All the power items like windows, locks, mirrors, auto climate control and stereo are all at hands. Not to mentioned Saab’s great set of sports seats. Back seat space is more than enough for a convertible, same goes for cargo space. As for the roof itself, press a button and it lifts off in less than 30 seconds without releasing a latch.

Conclusion: If the new 9-3 is the best Saab ever produced, then this must be the best convertible they ever made. It got the best of Saabs like unique style, nifty cockpit interior and turbo performance while addressing the cowl shakes and lack of chassis stiffness of its predecessors. Saab has got a winner on its hands.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2004 SAAB 9-3 2.0T AERO CONVERTIBLE
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Performance: 4.75/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4.75/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4.5/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 4.75/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 4/5
Value-for-money: 4/5

Overall rating: 4.5/5