Best Reviewed
Convertibles
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- Bargain four-seat convertible 2011 Ford Mustang Convertible *Est. $27145
- Best roadster value 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata *Est. $23110
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- Fresh exterior styling
- Handling
- Safety
- Fuel economy
- Cargo space (with top up)
- Interior materials
- Cramped rear seat
- Less sporty and refined than competitors
The Saab 9-3 underwent a significant update for 2008, highlighted by fresh exterior styling that earns compliments from almost all reviewers. Several reviewers comment that Saab should have also upgraded the interior of the 9-3. There is something about the unique personality of the Saab that makes the car appealing to many reviewers, but most conclude that the 9-3 convertible cannot match the superior refinement and driving dynamics of the BMW 3-Series convertibles (*est. $43,500 to $64,950).
Some reviewers say the Saab is a worthy alternative to the Audi A4 Cabriolet (*est. $39,750 to $47,900) and Volvo C70 (*est. $39,240), though the Volvo has the advantage of a retractable hardtop. The Saab's lined fabric top is fully automatic and drops in only 20 seconds. It can also be operated at speeds up to 20 miles per hour, another positive aspect cited by reviewers. Two turbocharged engine choices are offered on the Saab 9-3 convertible: a 210-horsepower, two-liter four-cylinder and a 255-horsepower V-6, each driving the front wheels only. Reviews say the 12.4-cubic-foot trunk (with the top up) is among the largest available, though the volume drops to 8.3 cubic feet when the top is lowered.
Although the convertible version of the Saab 9-3 is not featured in many available reviews, several sources review the entire Saab 9-3 line: the sports sedan, wagon and convertible. Consumer Reports features the Saab 9-3 in a comparison test against six drop-top competitors. ConsumerGuide.com tests a Saab convertible among other body styles, and rates it as "Recommended." ForbesAutos.com and Popular Mechanics each include the 9-3 convertible on top 10 lists. The 9-3 convertible scores top crash-test results, earning it a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Our Sources
1. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe
In addition to a review of the 2008 Saab 9-3 convertible, Consumer Reports offers data on historical reliability compiled from owner surveys.
Review: 2008 Saab 9-3 Review, Editors of Consumer Reports
ConsumerGuide.com gives the Saab 9-3 a "Recommended" endorsement and reports that the 2.0L turbo convertible averaged 24 mpg. The Saab 9-3 is also reported to be very rigid, is said to exhibit little chassis flex, and is still viewed as being less sporty and refined than costlier German rivals.
Review: 2008 Saab 9-3 Full Review, Editors of ConsumerGuide.com, Aug. 1, 2008
ForbesAutos.com spotlights 10 practical convertibles, including the Saab 9-3. This brief write-up lauds the Saab 9-3's agility and styling, and includes a link to a longer, more comprehensive review.
Review: Top 10 Most Practical Convertibles, Jim Gorzelany, May 13, 2008
4. PopularMechanics.comDetails/Subscribe
Popular Mechanics highlights 10 fun, affordable, and economical convertibles, including the Saab 9-3. Editors say the Saab gets good fuel economy and incorporates numerous improvements over the prior model year, putting it closer to, but not past, rivals from BMW and Audi.
Review: 10 Fun Convertibles That Won't Pinch at the Pump or the Lot, Editors of Popular Mechanics
5. Motor TrendDetails/Subscribe
This article gives an overview of the many changes to the 2008 Saab 9-3 model line (including the convertible), with compliments for styling enhancements. Praise also goes to the comfortable seats and smooth, powerful turbo V-6 engine, while the interior materials and soft ride are noted as drawbacks.
Review: Newcomers: 2008 Saab 9-3, Edward Loh
6. Car and DriverDetails/Subscribe
Car and Driver's Buying Guide gives a brief summary of the Saab 9-3 convertible. Editors note that the 9-3 convertible, while not a sports car, balances power, fuel economy, and open-air enjoyment.
Review: 2008 Saab 9-3 Convertible - Overview, Editors of Car and Driver
7. Cars.com
Cars.com includes the Saab 9-3 on its Best Bet list and provides an overview of the complete 9-3 model line. Attributes noted include ride comfort, handling and "manual-shift operation." Dislikes include "confusing radio controls" and "snug backseat."
Review: 2008 Saab 9-3 Review, Editors of Cars.com, Aug. 1, 2007
8. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
The Saab 9-3 convertible is named a Top Safety Pick here. Vehicles given this designation must earn "Good" ratings in frontal and side-impact crash tests and in evaluations of head restraints for protection against neck injuries from rear impacts. In addition, each winning vehicle must offer electronic stability control.
Review: Top Safety Picks 2008, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
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