The ability to open the door and slip behind the wheel of a vehicle different from the majority of other cars on the road is something that is prized by a niche of drivers who define their individuality through their choice of vehicle. The 2010 Saab 9-3 is the perfect pick for anyone not interested in following the herd.

Drawing from its extensive experience in the aviation industry, particularly as manufacturers of jet fighters, Saab’s automobiles have always managed to roll endearing Swedish quirks into stunning exterior styling that looks like it emerged mere seconds ago from extensive wind tunnel tweaking. This unique fashion sense is perhaps best expressed in the 9-3 (MSRP $30,360), a model that is available as a sedan, convertible and wagon. The 9-3’s practical, yet smooth and uncluttered form makes it a favorite among those drivers who appreciate a fluid and unadorned look.

Each 9-3 body style offers the option of either a four- or six-cylinder engine. A 2.0-liter, turbocharged four is found under the hood of the majority of 9-3 trim levels, and this engine is capable of generating 210 hp and 221 lb/ft of torque. Fuel mileage for the unit comes in at a respectable 19 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, excellent numbers for so much usable power. 

Saab’s Aero performance trim, which can be ordered across the entire lineup, keeps the turbo, but adds an additional two cylinders in the form of a 2.8-liter V6. With 280 hp and a frame-twisting 295 lb/ft of torque available almost instantly, the Aero’s forced induction charm is enough to put a smile on the face of even the most jaded performance enthusiast. The Aero also offers standard Saab’s exclusive, fully automatic Cross-Wheel Drive (XWD) all-wheel drive system in each model except the convertible, which remains front-wheel drive due to the space constraints of the chassis.

The base engine can be had with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission pulling the gear shifting duties; all-wheel drive variants (sedan and wagon, Aero and XWD trims) are upgraded to a six-speed auto. Each version of the 9-3 is nimble when piloted near the limit, and the Aero and Sport models make excellent use of their upgraded suspensions, lower ride heights and available 18-inch wheels. Steering is crisp across the line, and the Cross-Wheel Drive models put the power down quickly and with absolutely no drama. The 2010 Saab 9-3 is exactly the type of car that can be as demanding or as relaxing to drive as the situation warrants, which makes it the perfect daily commuter – with a wild streak available on tap.

The 9-3’s most popular body-style is the sedan, followed by the convertible and then the wagon (called the SportCombi). The sedan’s interior dimensions are a match for the German sport sedans that are typically held up as its main competitors. The five-passenger 9-3 offers 15 cubic feet of trunk space available in the four-door, and the wagon expands this to an amazing 70 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down. Perhaps even more impressive is the fact that the convertible loses only a few cubic feet in the trunk when compared to the sedan, which is a rarity in this era dominated by folding hardtops. All trim levels are equipped with leather seats, dual climate controls, a full range of power equipment (locks, windows, seats, mirrors) and a trip computer. Moving up brings upgrades such as a Cold Weather Package and a moonroof. The Aero and Sport editions add special sport seats, an available navigation system and carbon fiber trim.

Like most Swedish cars, the Saab 9-3 is an exceptionally safe travel option. Front occupants benefit from side and side-curtain airbags in addition to frontal bags and Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR) work to minimize spinal injury during an impact. Electronic stability control and a traction control system help keep the vehicle’s power under your control, and available HID xenon cornering headlights keep things bright on the road ahead, even around turns.

The 2010 Saab 9-3 is a vehicle that surprises and delights drivers who are unfamiliar with the company’s small, personalized touches such as the ignition being located on the center console. The 9-3’s individual styling and responsive powertrain choices make it a hard-to-overlook option in the compact field.