2002 SAAB 9-3 Vector Sports saloon review from UK and Ireland

CD changer replaced.

Steering rack replaced.

Quick and very responsive. Engine a little coarse. Good fuel consumption figures.

Nice paint job, but the front skirt was very close to the ground and subject to easy damage.

17" alloys look great, but low profile tyres gave a firm ride.

Interior very well-designed with excellent ergonomics. Good quality half-leather seats. Large boot, but obtrusive lip so I recommend that you buy the lip protector - it doubles up as a cool picnic mat.

Instrumentation and switchgear good, but on-board computer required a lot of button pressing, threatening one's concentration on the road.

Upgraded audio system disappointing acoustically.

My main criticism is that the car was starting to age at just 25,000 miles. When the steering rack need to be replaced I bailed out before its 3-year warranty cover finished.

I've owned older Saabs. This was my first GM Saab and I don't think the build quality is as good now so I fear that you won't get the same longevity out of them as with the older models. Excepting the 9-3 convertible, I worry that Saab has lost some of its unique brand values.