Saab 9-3 SportCombi 2.0 (A) Review
05 Oct 2010|14,391 views
The SportCombi is a nice combination of sportiness and hauling function in a pretty, modern wrapper that offers massive cargo space with the rear seat flopped out of the way.
Combining ample interior space with turbocharged performance and sporty styling, the 9-3 SportCombi is a rare combination of luxury, comfort and practicality. It has an enviable level of fit and finish with a list of standard accessories as well as safety features that will make owners of some premium models blush.
Like the rest of the Saab line up, the 9-3 SportCombi is also "born from jets". But in its case, it's a cargo jet. The premium wagon is not only built for comfort and speed, it's also generous in terms of its space. So the question is, "What's not to like?"
Exterior
Its styling says it all. Although not nearly as bold or brash as some of its competitors, the 9-3 SportCombi still makes a pretty strong statement on the road. Drive it around the roads and fellow drivers will stare. They are usually trying to work out what kind of car it is - in this day and age, I reckon this is a good thing.
The 9-3 SportCombi shares the same clean, sensible, sober and distinguished face as all the other current Saabs. It's hard to fault the car from the front as it has just the right amount of aggressiveness without looking too over the top.
Combining ample interior space with turbocharged performance and sporty styling, the 9-3 SportCombi is a rare combination of luxury, comfort and practicality. It has an enviable level of fit and finish with a list of standard accessories as well as safety features that will make owners of some premium models blush.
Like the rest of the Saab line up, the 9-3 SportCombi is also "born from jets". But in its case, it's a cargo jet. The premium wagon is not only built for comfort and speed, it's also generous in terms of its space. So the question is, "What's not to like?"
Exterior
Its styling says it all. Although not nearly as bold or brash as some of its competitors, the 9-3 SportCombi still makes a pretty strong statement on the road. Drive it around the roads and fellow drivers will stare. They are usually trying to work out what kind of car it is - in this day and age, I reckon this is a good thing.
The 9-3 SportCombi shares the same clean, sensible, sober and distinguished face as all the other current Saabs. It's hard to fault the car from the front as it has just the right amount of aggressiveness without looking too over the top.
 |
Thanks to its chromed lining front grille that is separated into three, Saab is easily recognisable.
I honestly like the side profile, with its rising beltline and falling side windows, giving the wagon a dynamic stance. At the rear, the main attention goes to the tail lamps.
They climb from the middle of the tailgate right up to the roof with a design that moulds into the car itself. Additionally, a big silver band stretches across the 9-3's tailgate to add on to the styling touches - something that I won't usually like, but in this case it worked really well.
I believe making a wagon look attractive isn't easy, but Saab has succeeded. Although the overall design isn't dazzling, it's certainly handsome enough given the fact that the 9-3 SportCombi looks sharp from any angle.
 |
Interior
Once inside, the ignition switch is in its classic Saab floor-mount position, alongside a cleverly integrated handbrake lever that forms the right margin rail of the center console.
The SportCombi's interior is a study in Swedish minimalist design. Every surface is covered in leather or soft-touch material. Despite the all-grey interior that I experienced for the test drive, there were occasional bits of brushed aluminium that lent the interior a subtle and classy look.
The interior tastefully blends luxury and sporty elements while the benches can easily fit five passengers with sufficient leg and head room.
As for the driver's seat, not only is the position right, the leather chair is amazingly comfortable and endlessly supportive. The leather-wrapped steering wheel also easily adjusts for the optimal driving position.
Once inside, the ignition switch is in its classic Saab floor-mount position, alongside a cleverly integrated handbrake lever that forms the right margin rail of the center console.
The SportCombi's interior is a study in Swedish minimalist design. Every surface is covered in leather or soft-touch material. Despite the all-grey interior that I experienced for the test drive, there were occasional bits of brushed aluminium that lent the interior a subtle and classy look.
The interior tastefully blends luxury and sporty elements while the benches can easily fit five passengers with sufficient leg and head room.
As for the driver's seat, not only is the position right, the leather chair is amazingly comfortable and endlessly supportive. The leather-wrapped steering wheel also easily adjusts for the optimal driving position.
Apart from audio controls that are available on the steering, the usual six-presets, CD player and Aux-In option for your MP3 player are also offered. But all these aren't the coolest features available.
The 'cool' feature, also encountered on a number of other premium brands, is the 'Night Panel'. A touch of a button shuts down much of the dashboard lighting to help reduce distracting glare while driving at night. And if this isn't cool enough, wait until you catch a glimpse of the cup holder.
One minute you have an innocent piece of plastic hidden away and another minute, with a press of a button, a folded plastic ejects out and unfolds into a cup holder. It seems a tad flimsy, but it's undoubtedly interesting enough to mention.
The trunk, especially in this wagon, is well-trimmed and it holds a massive 419 litres of space. Fold the rear seats and the space can be expanded to a massive 1,252 litres. Versatility never felt this big and generous with the 9-3 SportCombi.
The 'cool' feature, also encountered on a number of other premium brands, is the 'Night Panel'. A touch of a button shuts down much of the dashboard lighting to help reduce distracting glare while driving at night. And if this isn't cool enough, wait until you catch a glimpse of the cup holder.
One minute you have an innocent piece of plastic hidden away and another minute, with a press of a button, a folded plastic ejects out and unfolds into a cup holder. It seems a tad flimsy, but it's undoubtedly interesting enough to mention.
The trunk, especially in this wagon, is well-trimmed and it holds a massive 419 litres of space. Fold the rear seats and the space can be expanded to a massive 1,252 litres. Versatility never felt this big and generous with the 9-3 SportCombi.
 |
Drivetrain
The 2.0-litre engine accelerates well with a burly voice and the gears shift at relatively high revs, translating into a sporty and engaging drive.
The wagon delivers the required shove cleanly but not as effortlessly as you would expect from something with 240Nm of torque at 2,000rpm.
This is due to the noticeable turbo-lag, which can be a little disappointing at times. Nonetheless, the power comes hard and is instantly available at any gear, at any engine speed. And by having a day-to-day drive, there is more than enough power to get you going, while overtaking on the highway is a breeze.
Apart from the engine being impressive, the brakes in the vehicle were also inspiring. While they can be a little soft, they are perfectly capable and progressive when given full pressure, boosting the driver's confidence in ensuring his passengers' safety.
Speaking of safety, settings for the speed limit is available on the SportCombi. Considering that Saab takes the safety of its drivers and passengers alike seriously, this feature makes perfect sense. However, the fact that it beeps every time you hit 90km/h is enough to drive you up the wall.
The 2.0-litre engine accelerates well with a burly voice and the gears shift at relatively high revs, translating into a sporty and engaging drive.
The wagon delivers the required shove cleanly but not as effortlessly as you would expect from something with 240Nm of torque at 2,000rpm.
This is due to the noticeable turbo-lag, which can be a little disappointing at times. Nonetheless, the power comes hard and is instantly available at any gear, at any engine speed. And by having a day-to-day drive, there is more than enough power to get you going, while overtaking on the highway is a breeze.
Apart from the engine being impressive, the brakes in the vehicle were also inspiring. While they can be a little soft, they are perfectly capable and progressive when given full pressure, boosting the driver's confidence in ensuring his passengers' safety.
Speaking of safety, settings for the speed limit is available on the SportCombi. Considering that Saab takes the safety of its drivers and passengers alike seriously, this feature makes perfect sense. However, the fact that it beeps every time you hit 90km/h is enough to drive you up the wall.
Turning into corners, the car steers with all four wheels when thrown at high speed, increasing lateral grip and stability. This is due to Saab's unique chassis system - ReAxs.
However, as you'd expect from a 1.5 metre tall vehicle, there's a fair amount of body roll. But once the SportCombi finds its balance, it maintains its composure during high-speed cornering- regardless of the road surface.
Conclusion
Not only is the 9-3 SportCombi satisfying to drive, it's one that saves its greatest pleasures for enthusiastic drivers. Unlike its competitors like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, it's a Saab, which means it marches to the beat of a different drummer.
For those who have been considering a car, especially a stationwagon, do allow me to tell you this - driving one is a unique experience that starts the moment you turn the key.
At a price of $159,888 (as of 9th Sep 2010), you'll be getting a little more class and individuality.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
However, as you'd expect from a 1.5 metre tall vehicle, there's a fair amount of body roll. But once the SportCombi finds its balance, it maintains its composure during high-speed cornering- regardless of the road surface.
Conclusion
Not only is the 9-3 SportCombi satisfying to drive, it's one that saves its greatest pleasures for enthusiastic drivers. Unlike its competitors like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, it's a Saab, which means it marches to the beat of a different drummer.
For those who have been considering a car, especially a stationwagon, do allow me to tell you this - driving one is a unique experience that starts the moment you turn the key.
At a price of $159,888 (as of 9th Sep 2010), you'll be getting a little more class and individuality.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The SportCombi is a nice combination of sportiness and hauling function in a pretty, modern wrapper that offers massive cargo space with the rear seat flopped out of the way.
Combining ample interior space with turbocharged performance and sporty styling, the 9-3 SportCombi is a rare combination of luxury, comfort and practicality. It has an enviable level of fit and finish with a list of standard accessories as well as safety features that will make owners of some premium models blush.
Like the rest of the Saab line up, the 9-3 SportCombi is also "born from jets". But in its case, it's a cargo jet. The premium wagon is not only built for comfort and speed, it's also generous in terms of its space. So the question is, "What's not to like?"
Exterior
Its styling says it all. Although not nearly as bold or brash as some of its competitors, the 9-3 SportCombi still makes a pretty strong statement on the road. Drive it around the roads and fellow drivers will stare. They are usually trying to work out what kind of car it is - in this day and age, I reckon this is a good thing.
The 9-3 SportCombi shares the same clean, sensible, sober and distinguished face as all the other current Saabs. It's hard to fault the car from the front as it has just the right amount of aggressiveness without looking too over the top.
Combining ample interior space with turbocharged performance and sporty styling, the 9-3 SportCombi is a rare combination of luxury, comfort and practicality. It has an enviable level of fit and finish with a list of standard accessories as well as safety features that will make owners of some premium models blush.
Like the rest of the Saab line up, the 9-3 SportCombi is also "born from jets". But in its case, it's a cargo jet. The premium wagon is not only built for comfort and speed, it's also generous in terms of its space. So the question is, "What's not to like?"
Exterior
Its styling says it all. Although not nearly as bold or brash as some of its competitors, the 9-3 SportCombi still makes a pretty strong statement on the road. Drive it around the roads and fellow drivers will stare. They are usually trying to work out what kind of car it is - in this day and age, I reckon this is a good thing.
The 9-3 SportCombi shares the same clean, sensible, sober and distinguished face as all the other current Saabs. It's hard to fault the car from the front as it has just the right amount of aggressiveness without looking too over the top.
|
Thanks to its chromed lining front grille that is separated into three, Saab is easily recognisable.
I honestly like the side profile, with its rising beltline and falling side windows, giving the wagon a dynamic stance. At the rear, the main attention goes to the tail lamps.
They climb from the middle of the tailgate right up to the roof with a design that moulds into the car itself. Additionally, a big silver band stretches across the 9-3's tailgate to add on to the styling touches - something that I won't usually like, but in this case it worked really well.
I believe making a wagon look attractive isn't easy, but Saab has succeeded. Although the overall design isn't dazzling, it's certainly handsome enough given the fact that the 9-3 SportCombi looks sharp from any angle.
|
Interior
Once inside, the ignition switch is in its classic Saab floor-mount position, alongside a cleverly integrated handbrake lever that forms the right margin rail of the center console.
The SportCombi's interior is a study in Swedish minimalist design. Every surface is covered in leather or soft-touch material. Despite the all-grey interior that I experienced for the test drive, there were occasional bits of brushed aluminium that lent the interior a subtle and classy look.
The interior tastefully blends luxury and sporty elements while the benches can easily fit five passengers with sufficient leg and head room.
As for the driver's seat, not only is the position right, the leather chair is amazingly comfortable and endlessly supportive. The leather-wrapped steering wheel also easily adjusts for the optimal driving position.
Once inside, the ignition switch is in its classic Saab floor-mount position, alongside a cleverly integrated handbrake lever that forms the right margin rail of the center console.
The SportCombi's interior is a study in Swedish minimalist design. Every surface is covered in leather or soft-touch material. Despite the all-grey interior that I experienced for the test drive, there were occasional bits of brushed aluminium that lent the interior a subtle and classy look.
The interior tastefully blends luxury and sporty elements while the benches can easily fit five passengers with sufficient leg and head room.
As for the driver's seat, not only is the position right, the leather chair is amazingly comfortable and endlessly supportive. The leather-wrapped steering wheel also easily adjusts for the optimal driving position.
Apart from audio controls that are available on the steering, the usual six-presets, CD player and Aux-In option for your MP3 player are also offered. But all these aren't the coolest features available.
The 'cool' feature, also encountered on a number of other premium brands, is the 'Night Panel'. A touch of a button shuts down much of the dashboard lighting to help reduce distracting glare while driving at night. And if this isn't cool enough, wait until you catch a glimpse of the cup holder.
One minute you have an innocent piece of plastic hidden away and another minute, with a press of a button, a folded plastic ejects out and unfolds into a cup holder. It seems a tad flimsy, but it's undoubtedly interesting enough to mention.
The trunk, especially in this wagon, is well-trimmed and it holds a massive 419 litres of space. Fold the rear seats and the space can be expanded to a massive 1,252 litres. Versatility never felt this big and generous with the 9-3 SportCombi.
The 'cool' feature, also encountered on a number of other premium brands, is the 'Night Panel'. A touch of a button shuts down much of the dashboard lighting to help reduce distracting glare while driving at night. And if this isn't cool enough, wait until you catch a glimpse of the cup holder.
One minute you have an innocent piece of plastic hidden away and another minute, with a press of a button, a folded plastic ejects out and unfolds into a cup holder. It seems a tad flimsy, but it's undoubtedly interesting enough to mention.
The trunk, especially in this wagon, is well-trimmed and it holds a massive 419 litres of space. Fold the rear seats and the space can be expanded to a massive 1,252 litres. Versatility never felt this big and generous with the 9-3 SportCombi.
|
Drivetrain
The 2.0-litre engine accelerates well with a burly voice and the gears shift at relatively high revs, translating into a sporty and engaging drive.
The wagon delivers the required shove cleanly but not as effortlessly as you would expect from something with 240Nm of torque at 2,000rpm.
This is due to the noticeable turbo-lag, which can be a little disappointing at times. Nonetheless, the power comes hard and is instantly available at any gear, at any engine speed. And by having a day-to-day drive, there is more than enough power to get you going, while overtaking on the highway is a breeze.
Apart from the engine being impressive, the brakes in the vehicle were also inspiring. While they can be a little soft, they are perfectly capable and progressive when given full pressure, boosting the driver's confidence in ensuring his passengers' safety.
Speaking of safety, settings for the speed limit is available on the SportCombi. Considering that Saab takes the safety of its drivers and passengers alike seriously, this feature makes perfect sense. However, the fact that it beeps every time you hit 90km/h is enough to drive you up the wall.
The 2.0-litre engine accelerates well with a burly voice and the gears shift at relatively high revs, translating into a sporty and engaging drive.
The wagon delivers the required shove cleanly but not as effortlessly as you would expect from something with 240Nm of torque at 2,000rpm.
This is due to the noticeable turbo-lag, which can be a little disappointing at times. Nonetheless, the power comes hard and is instantly available at any gear, at any engine speed. And by having a day-to-day drive, there is more than enough power to get you going, while overtaking on the highway is a breeze.
Apart from the engine being impressive, the brakes in the vehicle were also inspiring. While they can be a little soft, they are perfectly capable and progressive when given full pressure, boosting the driver's confidence in ensuring his passengers' safety.
Speaking of safety, settings for the speed limit is available on the SportCombi. Considering that Saab takes the safety of its drivers and passengers alike seriously, this feature makes perfect sense. However, the fact that it beeps every time you hit 90km/h is enough to drive you up the wall.
Turning into corners, the car steers with all four wheels when thrown at high speed, increasing lateral grip and stability. This is due to Saab's unique chassis system - ReAxs.
However, as you'd expect from a 1.5 metre tall vehicle, there's a fair amount of body roll. But once the SportCombi finds its balance, it maintains its composure during high-speed cornering- regardless of the road surface.
Conclusion
Not only is the 9-3 SportCombi satisfying to drive, it's one that saves its greatest pleasures for enthusiastic drivers. Unlike its competitors like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, it's a Saab, which means it marches to the beat of a different drummer.
For those who have been considering a car, especially a stationwagon, do allow me to tell you this - driving one is a unique experience that starts the moment you turn the key.
At a price of $159,888 (as of 9th Sep 2010), you'll be getting a little more class and individuality.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
However, as you'd expect from a 1.5 metre tall vehicle, there's a fair amount of body roll. But once the SportCombi finds its balance, it maintains its composure during high-speed cornering- regardless of the road surface.
Conclusion
Not only is the 9-3 SportCombi satisfying to drive, it's one that saves its greatest pleasures for enthusiastic drivers. Unlike its competitors like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, it's a Saab, which means it marches to the beat of a different drummer.
For those who have been considering a car, especially a stationwagon, do allow me to tell you this - driving one is a unique experience that starts the moment you turn the key.
At a price of $159,888 (as of 9th Sep 2010), you'll be getting a little more class and individuality.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Photos by Julian Kho
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