2004 Saab 9-3 Cabriolet Road Test

My test unit was fitted with a crisp shifting 5-speed automatic transmission featuring a manual mode. This unit made its way up and down the cogs very smartly. Shift points

The high-pressure turbo and free breathing valvetrain gave plenty of life to the 5-speed automatic transmission. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

are programmed to maximize the use of the engine's broad torque band. Upshifts are smooth and moderately detectable, while downshifts occur willingly and with a snap-to-attention.

As anyone who has spent more time with their car than family can tell you, automatic cars equipped with 4-bangers are not renowned for their highway performance. A run on our version of the autobahn in the 9-3, however, shattered that myth. It pulled insatiably at any speed, thanks largely to that high-pressure turbo and free breathing valvetrain. I was amazed at how quickly the speedo left the legal limits and sought out markings well into the citation zone. As it did, the 9-3 felt perfectly poised and extremely stable. There was no

While driving the 9-3, braking was always linear, predictable and progressive. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

discernible hint of shake, vibration or unwanted harmonics. And with the roof down, conversation could be maintained without the need to resort to hand signs or megaphones due to excessive buffeting. Simply put, this car loves the highway.

Pulling the entire specter of the 9-3's lively performance together is its tenacious braking ability. The 4-wheel antilock disc system employs Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and a mechanical brake assist (MBA) to ensure stops are as rapid as possible, over and over again. Little effort was required to squeeze the brakes to their maximum potential. When doing so, the 9-3 squat closer to the road and shed its speed faster than a streaker sheds his duds. Braking was always linear, predictable and progressive. Little nosedive or pitching accompanied severe braking maneuvers.