In addition to this singular allotment of cheesy trim, I found the audio system too deviant to operate intuitively. All I wanted to do was program the station presets, being that most of the buttons hadn't been tuned in yet. I guess I wasn't the only auto journalist that experienced audio techno-peasantry with the 9-3. Apart from such oddities, and only a single disc in-dash capacity, the sound system was quite willing to entertain once a music source was established. Good acoustical engineering has ensured that outrageous volume levels are not necessary to hear a favorite disc while cruising at highway speeds with the roof down. And die-hard roof down cruisers will appreciate the large dash vents that can blow more hot air than a Pratt & Whitney at full throttle.
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| Although it provides good sound quality, I found the audio system too deviant to operate intuitively. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Aeronautics, audio and venting aside, I'm guessing Saab intentionally maintained a fairly austere cockpit in the 9-3. The brand is big on "cockpits," stemming from its hay-days of building passenger and military jets. The comprehensive gauge package and dashboard of the 9-3 even features a jet fighter "night" setting, which switches off all dash lights and gauges except for the speedometer. The theory is that with fewer in-car distractions, the driver's attention will be focused more on outside events. When hurtling through curves on an unlit backroad during a dark evening, the setting does actually provide benefit - boiling everything down to the two basic elements of driver and road.
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| In the 9-3, Saab has masterfully integrated the juxtaposing fundamentals of ride comfort and handling ability. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
And if fortunate enough to comprise the element of driver, expect to experience one of the few great pleasures this side of the pearly gates. In the 9-3, Saab has masterfully integrated the juxtaposing fundamentals of ride comfort and handling ability. This is a car that can mend a broken road while straightening its curves. The 9-3 rewards its occupants with a very smooth well-controlled ride - all the while being a handling overachiever. Undoubtedly Saab engineers did their homework and a bit more when determining the calibrations and geometry for the 9-3's Epsilon architecture. It is a near fantasy to propel oneself in a vehicle that procures competent handling without resorting to concrete blocks for springs.