College going male: There is an average stereo in the Linear Saab, but it was easy to manage. I did not find the driver's information center as easy. The basic stereo functions are easy to understand, but the LCD layout for the CD player and push button radio station presets weren't attractively done. I felt the back seat lacked headroom, although the window controls and cupholders were adequate.
Driving this Saab was not emotional. It looks better than it acts. My first impression was that this was a sexy looking lady that meant business with its low stance and wide tires. That wasn't the case. Once you drive it you realize this is just a good old gal in a fancy dress. Personally, I'd pay the extra and buy her more fun Aero sister with lots more power and a need to go out on the town.
Young career woman's view: I miss my old Saab. But, I was impressed by the nature of the new 9-3. The easy-to-fold 60/40-split-folding rear seats as well as a separate ski pass-through helped compensate for the hatchback that got me through graduate school. There are also a lot of storage areas. The front seat area includes two rubber-lined storage wells, which I recommend be used as cupholders, door bins, two power points, a very large and cooled glove box, and a small center console. In the back there are additional door bins, map pockets behind the seats, cupholders in the center console, and nicely designed clothes hangers. This last feature is something other manufactures don't spend enough time designing. No one likes to wear their nice suit jacket while driving and so they hang it behind the driver's seat. This location avoids creating a blind spot and makes it easy to retrieve once you are parked. By the way, this Saab is very easy to park.
So, do I want the new 9-3? Maybe. It was certainly comfortable and spunky. And, to be honest, there was nothing I felt uncomfortable with while driving this fresh Saab. But, I'm not sure what it represents anymore. In the past when I arrived in a Saab it carried a clear message of practicality, safety, and independence. I'm not sure that last trait is reflective in the new model. On the other hand, it is certainly the best car I have ever driven that leased for under $300 a month and so maybe sensibility should replace independence as a watchword of the new 9-3.