2004 Saab 9-3 Cabriolet Road Test

Even with the roof up the 9-3 is a great looking vehicle - as opposed to the older 900 series Saab convertibles which I always viewed as odd ducks. The brilliant Lime-Yellow finish on my test unit nicely highlighted

The 9-3 is unmistakably a Saab, but a Saab targeted more at the mainstream enthusiast rather than the quirky few. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

the 9-3's overall wedge-shape and rounded surfaces. Saab has definitely taken a giant step forward in both aerodynamics and style with the introduction of the 9-3. It remains unmistakably a Saab, but a Saab targeted more at the mainstream enthusiast rather than the quirky few. And dressed in colors such as my tester's Lime-Yellow, or alternatively Laser Red, the 9-3 will attract plenty of attention - wanted or not.

The genus of Saab carries over to the interior of the 9-3. I have long admired the Swedish carmaker for the quality and comfort of its interiors and this one doesn't disappoint either. There are few auto manufacturers that can beat Saab when it comes to placing the driver in exactly the right driving position while maximizing comfort in the process. Anatomically, the 9-3 just makes sense. Many hours are needed behind the wheel before

The 9-3 places the driver in exactly the right driving position while maximizing comfort in the process. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

discomfort and fatigue overtake the great driving pleasure a ragtop can offer. Sadly such pleasures are limited to those in the front seats, unless the rear-seat beings have rubber femurs. If the front occupants don't suck-it-up and move their seats far forward, rear seat legroom is abysmal.

As with the Saabs before and the ones after, the 9-3 ignition is located on the floor between the seats - a neat touch trimmed with a less impressive faux-wood inlay. This cheap piece of trim adds absolutely nothing to the interior décor. It looks out of place and scratches very easily - no, I am not responsible for the etching as it was already victimized when I got it.