Test Drove
reviewed by Sara Lacey

Saab-io

By: Sara Lacey

Test drove: 9/7/2006 to 9/11/2006

Maybe your summertime reading included something light, something in the romance genre? If your idea of the perfect review reads something like a Harlequin novel with Fabio on the cover, you're in luck (any help in the form of a fake, airy accent you must supply on your own). When I first lay eyes upon the 2006 Saab 9-3 Wagon, it looks winsome. My Scandinavian has metallic blue paint that is reminiscent of the Swedish sky. Handsome yet accommodating, attractive yet approachable, the Saab is a fine, gallant escort to take me through the day's journeys. The sporty seats are strong and masculine. Beige leather with charcoal accents beckon me, wrap around me just so, and the heated seat option makes my heart flutter.

This 9-3 is not to be taken lightly. As I drive the car through my neighborhood I get longing glances from other ladies. Not typically vain, I can't help but feel proud to drive the Saab. I am cautioned by my instincts, however, which remind me I've been burned by this kind of car before. Beauty and unreliability rule in this blueblood's family lines. Can my test car make up for years of wrongdoing by previous models? Or will I trust in a Saab only to get an enjoyable ride followed by heartache? I take the plunge and continue on to preschool, casting aside my judgment for now.

Once out on the road, I find this vehicle's unbridled power disconcerting. This car is moving too fast, I feel a little out of control and I'm not sure I can handle it. My blood pumps and I enjoy the rush, but like an equestrian on a young foal I realize I must search to find stability. The steering is a bit jerky and the braking harsh, but I know this can be overcome. I wind up compromising much in the Saab, from the controls down to the seating. While I delight in the ride when it's just my youngest and myself in the car, I cannot fit my whole family in the Sportcombi. My innate desire is to comply with some of this car's shortcomings, except the one about not driving my whole family in it at once. Upon closer inspection of the Saab, I am disappointed with the finish of my manly escort. There is a feeling of luxury at first, but upon closer inspection, I wake to the illusion. Much of the 9-3 feels plastic-y, many exposed seams and a flimsy cup holder shatter my dreams. The lack of attention to detail is disappointing.

What startles me most is the cost to get in to this Swedish military family. Born from jets, I'm told. How is a common domestic woman such as myself expected to break into this tradition of excellence without forcing my children to school in tatters? A starting price tag of $32,900 reminds me this car is an entry into an elite class. And for the $39,260 price of my gentlemanly test car, I would expect much better execution. The 9-3's a lovely specimen, no doubt, but a year or two at finishing school should smooth the rough edges, I suspect. My darling Saab-io, you are handsome. I will send you off with the promise that I might wait for you. Should you provide an excellent warranty upon your return and a few mannerly improvements, I will reconsider an offer of your kindly attentions.

*For more information on the 2006 Saab 9-3 Sportcombi and its safety features visit Cars.com. For questions or comments regarding this review write to .

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