Faults:

The GM 2.0-liter engine is unreliable, and I've had several problems.

Overheating (due to coolant leaks, a faulty thermostat, or a faulty radiator fan). The engine overheats and may even shut down if the temperature gets too high.

There are also problems with the turbo (this shouldn't be normal in a gasoline car), damaged seals, or dirt and dust entering the turbo through the air filter.

Various misfires, due to electrical faults, fuel injection system failures, or problems with the camshaft or crankshaft sensor, result in the engine cranking but not starting, or simply not starting at all.

Another problem, not a cause for concern, is that the check engine light comes on frequently, due to a wide variety of faults, from ignition problems to fuel injection problems. Most of the time, it comes on without any engine problems, but it's not supposed to.

General Comments:

The car is beautiful, comfortable, safe, and easy to drive. In this respect, it has all the qualities of a true SAAB, but for the reasons I mentioned and the serious engine failures, it's truly a step backwards compared to my previous SAABs (I previously owned a 9000 and a 900).

In terms of reliability, it feels like the engine isn't made by the Swedish brand. When I bought it, I didn't expect all these problems, especially with the engine.

Even with its problems, the 2.0 is powerful and offers quick acceleration and good response, with remarkable driving pleasure, especially when overtaking.

The spacious cabin and excellent sound insulation create a comfortable environment for everyday use.

Its aesthetics are timeless and elegant, with a design that doesn't look dated after so many years.

As for safety, this is its strong point, as it includes good standard safety equipment, such as ABS with EBD and cornering brake control.

For those who want to buy a car like this, I recommend something that I didn't do (and I regret) which is a thorough inspection. It is essential to thoroughly check the car, paying special attention to the possible common problems mentioned.

Faults:

EGR valve (fortunately replaced under warranty).

Weird steering (unknown cause).

Random jerking while accelerating/decelerating (unknown cause).

Difficulties to change gears.

General Comments:

I'm amazed by: the low consumption, the excellent comfort of its seat, the handling, the performances, the cargo, the superb design of the car.

I didn't like: the clutch/gearbox set, the aerodynamic sounds, the very bad handling when on windy/bad roads, some weird reactions from the steering wheel (hard/smooth), noises coming from the dashboard.

OK, it might be not as reliable as a BMW/Audi/Merc, but it's far better looking, and you have the feeling of driving something more rare and exclusive.

My previous car was a Saab, my current car is a Saab, my next car will be a Saab.

Faults:

This car is as good as on day one when I bought it and it feels as tightly packed as when it left factory.

General Comments:

This is an incredible combination of practicality, economy and performance. The car can haul the sink while returning 8.5lt/100km. Above 3500 revs the car transforms itself to a modest sports car. Reliability is pretty good too.

Too bad that the current 9-3 is lagging so far behind this original Swedish design!

Faults:

The car seemed to have problems with the engine management system at first, which did cause a minor inconvenience on the motorway. The dealer did replace the entire computer unit during the next week under warranty.

Furthermore I had the driver's seatbelt replaced due to a problem with the tensioner, a slight problem with the GPS unit which was fixed with a software update, a new motion-sensor for the alarm system, a new unit for the electronic stability program and a new CD player. All these items were replaced under warranty and were done expertly without any hassle by the dealer.

General Comments:

This is my third Saab, and I must admit that this is the very best car I have ever owned, not withstanding the fact that it has been to the dealers a few times for some problems. It handles brilliantly, has a high degree of comfort and looks very nice indeed. And let's be honest here, which other car manufacturer can offer a complete car like this, with the same level of comfort and luxury, for the price of the Saab?