2005 SAAB 9-3 VECTOR SPORT from UK and Ireland - Comments

Nothing major, just rattles, squeaks and

poor quality finish.

Fantastic Diesel, seriously quick returning impressive MPG.

Poor quality interior, audio, seats, finish, plastics, build, and ride.

Only average handling and brakes compared to immediate competition.

A good looking GM built fake Saab.

Next...

... And so say many of us!!!

Very sad to read the above.. even worse that I reluctantly indentify with some of the above comments.

I have owned 9-3's for some years now, and this latest model is by far the best drive and "looker" in my opinion.

I have the 150 Tid, which is an impressive diesel performer, plenty of evenly spread power, mind blowing torque coupled with a turbo that kicks in a low rev's when you want it.

The driving experience is effortless, motorway driving a joy, amazing mid ranged power. Easily our accelerates the average 2.0i Petrol "rep" mobile from 60-90mph.. and beyond!

But then the seats become uncomfortable during a long journey, mainly from the lack of support given to your rear.. no adjustment for leg support on this Vector Sport.

But never mind, i'll compensate this slight discomfort with my favorite CD... oh dear.. do Saab think they have given us a stereo here? Embarrasssingly poor quality, producing only vibrating door pannels, speakers that just don't cope even at modest volumes.

I look at a most wonderful, great designed and ergonimically perfect dash layout... surrounded by dull, cheap looking and creaky plastic.

I find a little more road and wind noise I would expect too from a premium marketed car.

Despite all this, point it at any corner, at any speed.. fantastic!

If this car was 5/6k less,I could perhaps expect lesser quality of interior, audio, seats etc, but difficult and frustrating to live with, considering the price tag.

A stunning car to looks at, proud to have on the driveway and satisfying to drive... bit unless Saab (GM) address some of the dead full quality issues mentioned, will be very reluctant to buy another...

I.

May I suggest a solution.. Swap it for the latest 2006 Vectra 2.2 SRI..!. no don't cringe!!.. same floor plan, suspension set up, brakes etc (GM epsilon).. BUT.. better quality build and interior materials, equal if not better handling, far superior ride, faster, quieter,no rattles and squeeks, more room in the rear, hatch back, much better seats and... a quality audio system with Nav!.. all this and it looks as good in my opinion too!.. and with the £5k saving, take the whole family on a quality holiday! All in all, speaking from experience with both cars, the Vectra "plops" all over it!